Laboratory Technician

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University of Cape Town Lung Institute
CENTRE FOR LUNG INFECTION AND IMMUNITY

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN (FULL TIME)

The Centre for Lung Infection and Immunity (CLII) at the UCT Lung Institute (http://www.lunginstitute.co.za), invites applications for a suitably qualified candidates for 12-month Fixed Term Contract as a LABORATORY TECHNICIAN* for appointment as soon as possible.

CLII is based within the Division of Pulmonology in the Department of Medicine at UCT and is committed to the pursuit of excellence in research, treatment and prevention of tuberculosis (TB) in Southern Africa. The CLII conducts various TB and other respiratory disease-related research projects at numerous sites in South Africa. This includes several areas or research such diagnostics, transmission, drug resistance and immunology. Further training opportunities are also available.

The purpose of this position is to undertake laboratory research in several grant-funded immunology and molecular basic science projects and clinical trials related to TB using human biological samples.

Requirements:

  • An MSc in microbiology, immunology, molecular biology or a related field (candidates with a BSc Honors or who have worked in a relevant industry will be considered if they have sufficient experience)
  • At least 12 months laboratory experience in one or more of the following: (i) immunology (ii) molecular biology
    (iii) microbiology (iv) clinical trials (working with TB samples would be advantageous but is not absolutely required).
  • One or more scientific publication/s in a related field would be advantageous.
  • Experience in two or more of the following techniques:
    o Peripheral blood mononuclear (PBMC) and bronchoalveolar lavage (BAL) cell processing
    o Molecular techniques – Nucleic extraction from human specimens (cells, tissue), PCR, qPCR
    o Preparation of samples and analysis for next generation sequencing
    o Intracellular staining and flow cytometry (hands-on experience would be highly advantageous)
    o Working with infectious pathogens (i.e. M. tuberculosis, SARS-CoV2) in BSL3 laboratory (advantageous)
    o Culturing of bacterial and human primary cells
    o Immunoassays e.g. ELISA, ELISPOT, Luminex, etc.
    o Other relevant molecular or immunology techniques.
  • Computer Literacy (MS Word, MS Excel, MS Outlook, simple stats software experience would be advantageous)
  • Good interpersonal, communication and time management skills

Primary Responsibilities include (but are not limited to):

  • Performing relevant immunological & molecular techniques including but not limited to PBMC/ BAL cell processing, cell
    isolation and culture, flow cytometry (staining, acquisition, analysis), immunoassays, nucleic acid extraction, PCR,
    sequencing, other techniques relevant to the specific project.
  • Assisting with logistics regarding appropriate collection, storage and transport of human specimens.
  • Ordering and maintaining reagent and consumable inventories; cataloguing of sample biobanks.
  • Ensuring site and laboratory equipment is maintained and functioning appropriately.
  • Ensuring Quality Assurance and Quality Control procedures are followed according to GCP, GCLP and CLII policy.
  • Liaising between laboratory data management team and clinical staff.
  • Assisting with experimental design and development of relevant SOPs.
  • Completing study documentation, assisting with report writing and other project-related administrative duties
  • Supporting the clinical team with in-field operations whenever required.

Additional Information:

  • The position will be based at the Old Main Building, Groote Schuur Hospital in Cape Town
  • Working hours 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday
  • Remuneration will be within the benchmarked amount for the position and will be dependent on qualifications and experience.

Application Process: To apply, interested applicants are requested to submit an application form, a letter of motivation and updated CV to: uctlirecruitment@uct.ac.za

Reference (in subject line): Lab Tech: CLII-0010

Closing Date: 15 January 2024

Only shortlisted candidates, who respond with the correct reference, will be contacted. Should you not receive a response within 30 days of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

The University of Cape Town Lung Institute is committed to equity in our employment practices and reserves the right not to appoint.

*Please Note: This Position is not on UCT Conditions of Service.

All the best with your applications

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