Research Assistant - Pretoria, South Africa - University of Pretoria

Thabo Mthembu

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Thabo Mthembu

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Description

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The incumbent will be responsible for:
Data Generation

  • Provide research assistance with respect to:
  • DNA isolation from plant tissues;
  • DNA marker analysis using standard operating procedures (SOP);
  • Operate analytical equipment required for DNA isolation and DNA marker analysis;
  • Capture results and manage DNA marker data as specified in SOP;
  • Cooperate with other team members in the Platform to ensure efficient coordination of DNA marker data generation;
Data Analysis

  • Provide research assistance with respect to:
  • Scoring and verification of DNA marker profiles and genotypes;
  • Provide research assistance with respect to data analysis and interpretation according to SOPs for:
  • DNA fingerprinting;
  • Parentage analysis;
  • Species and hybrid identification;
  • Capture and manage results of DNA data analyses as specified in SOP;
  • Cooperate with other team members in the Platform to ensure efficient coordination of DNA marker data analysis;
Technical Report Writing

  • Provide research assistance with respect to:
  • Preparation of written technical reports;
  • Communication of reports to Platform Manager;
General Administrative and Laboratory Functions

  • Adhere to laboratory and health and safety practices;
  • Provide administrative assistance to the Platform Manager;
  • Assist with laboratory housekeeping;
  • Perform administrative functions such as stationary and equipment management and stock taking;
  • Assist with the orientation and training of students and temporary employees working in the DNA Fingerprinting Platform or making use of its equipment.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

  • BTech in Biotechnology or BSc in Genetics, Biotechnology or Molecular Biology;
  • At least one (1) years' technical or laboratory experience in:
  • DNA isolation;
  • Agarose gel electrophoresis;
  • Polymerase chain reaction (PCR).

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):

  • Knowledge of laboratory processes used to generate DNA fingerprinting data (e.g. DNA isolation, Agarose gel electrophoresis, PCR, GeneScan);
  • An understanding of molecular genetics, specifically principles of population genetics and be proficient with software packages used for DNA marker data analysis (GeneMarker, PowerMarker, STRUCTURE, Mega, CERVUS, or similar).

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:

  • BSc (Hons) Genetics, Biotechnology or Molecular Biology or MSc Genetics, MSc Biotechnology;
  • Two (2) years' experience in with various DNA marker technologies (SSRs,SNPs,GBS).


The all-inclusive remuneration package for this contract position will be commensurate with the incumbent's level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines.


  • A comprehensive CV;
  • Certified copies of qualifications;

CLOSING DATE:
22 May 2023


ENQUIRIES:

  • The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity._
  • The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised positions._

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