GRADUATE STUDENT INTERNS: VIROLOGY X2

The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) is a premier science institution that conducts research with partners, develops human capital and foster innovation in support of the agricultural sector. It
provides diagnostic, laboratory, analytical, agricultural engineering services, post-harvest
technology development, agrochemical evaluation, consultation and advisory services, food
processing technology services as well as various surveys and training interventions. Through its
wider network of research institutes and experimental farms, the ARC provides a strong scientific base and a broadly distributed technology transfer capacity to the entire agricultural industry in South Africa.

The ARC-Plant Health and Protection (ARC-PHP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced and
dynamic person to the following position at Roodeplaat, Pretoria.

GRADUATE STUDENT INTERNS: VIROLOGY X2
(THREE (3) YEAR FIXED TERM CONTRACT)

Key Performance Areas:
➢ Laboratory support and sample management

• Assist with plant or soil samples brought in for testing in the virology laboratory.
• Assist with microbiology and molecular assays according to set protocols, including weighing of
  chemicals and preparation of solutions, plant or soil sample storage, nucleic acid (DNA/RNA)
  extraction and various diagnostic assays, including ELISA, RT-PCR or PCR and gel
  electrophoresis.

➢ Sample collection

• Assist researchers with collection of samples on field trips.
  ➢ Glasshouse or field trials
• Assist researchers with the tending of plants or the monitoring of pests and diseases in glasshouse
  or field trials.
  ➢ Health and safety
• Compliance with general health and safety regulations; demonstrate safe use of safety equipment,
  safe application of surface sterilizers, sanitizers and pesticides.

Requirements:

• National Diploma, BTech OR BSc degree or equivalent.
• Prior experience in molecular laboratory and glasshouse and tunnel facilities.
• Excellent communication skills (Written and Verbal).
• Ability to work in diverse teams.
• Ability to be hands-on and excellent problem solving skills.
• Ability to organize, prioritize and work systematically.
• Attention to detail and work accuracy.
• Proficiency in MS Office Suite.
• Ability to work under pressure and handling of high workload at times.

Enquiries: Dr Lindy Esterhuizen, Tel: (012) 808 8196
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 30 JANUARY 2024

Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to South African citizens.

Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license) must be attached on the form.

❖ Click on the link to apply https://forms.office.com/r/T6SUERzQW9

NB: Non-RSA citizens with work permit must attach certified copies as well as the names and
particulars of three (3) traceable referees.

SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be
considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard
their applications as unsuccessful. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity. Preference will be given to the
designated groups in line with the ARC’s EE Plan. The company has the right not to appoint.

All the best with your applications