Research Assistant (Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute) - 24135

Job Description

Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute

Research assistant (25 hours per week)

One year contract

Peromnes level 11

In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy.

The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

This position is for a research assistant supporting the research conducted by a SARCHI Chair linked to the Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute, at the University of Pretoria. The appointment will be for one year but with the potential to be renewed for a total of 5 years.

Key responsibilities will be to:

• Culturing Fungi;
• Isolating DNA from fungi and plants for NGS sequencing;
• Isolating RNA from fungi and plants for RNA sequencing;
• Running DNA sequencer;
• Genoming assembly;
• Genoming annotation;
• Assisting in student research projects.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• BSc (Hon) or MSc

At least one year of proven experience in:

• Basic microbiology skills in culturing Bacteria and Fungi. Proficiency in making culture media/ sterilisation etc;
• Large fragment DNA isolation from Fungi or plants;
• Bioinformatics skills in DNA genome assembly and annotation OR ability to use CLC genomics or similar genomics platform;

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):

• Proficient knowledge of Microbiology, Genetics and Genomics;
• Professional attitude and results driven;
• Sound time management;
• Accuracy and ability to prioritise tasks;
• Problem solving skills.

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:

• PhD

At least 3 years of extensive experience in:

• Basic microbiology skills in culturing Bacteria and Fungi. Proficiency in making culture media/ sterilisation etc;
• Large fragment DNA isolation from Fungi or plants;
• Bioinformatics skills in DNA genome assembly and annotation OR ability to use CLC genomics or similar genomics platform.

PLEASE NOTE: All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.

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.

Applicants are requested to apply online via the apply online button below and follow the link: Careers@UP.

CLOSING DATE: 28 April 2021

No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.

ENQUIRIES: Prof SN Venter, Tel: (012) 420 4100 for application-related enquiries, and Prof B Wingfield, Tel: (012) 420 6288 for enquiries relating to the post content.

Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 30 June 2021, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.

The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity.

In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference will be given, but is not limited to candidates from under-represented designated groups.

All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply. All candidates agree to undergo verification of personal credentials.

The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised position.