Wits Health Consortium Medical Scientist (12 Months Contract) offers qualified professionals an opportunity to contribute to impactful health research within a leading South African research organisation. This fixed-term position provides hands-on laboratory and scientific research experience, supporting clinical studies, data analysis, and public health initiatives while strengthening practical skills and career development in the medical and research sciences field.
Wits Health Consortium (Pty) Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of the Witwatersrand.
The organization supports health research and program implementation initiatives in collaboration with leading public health institutions.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Applicants who do not receive feedback within two weeks after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.
Position Details
Job Title: Medical Scientist
Contract Type: Fixed Term (12 Months)
Location: National Institute for Communicable Diseases, 1 Modderfontein Road
Advert Reference Number: Medical Scientist:01
Closing Date: 24 February 2026
Main Purpose of the Job
To provide technical and data support and conduct research in the areas of acute flaccid paralysis and environmental surveillance.
The role contributes to strengthening laboratory systems, research outputs, and public health surveillance initiatives.
Key Performance Areas
- Perform basic and advanced laboratory techniques, including analysis and interpretation of generated data
- Contribute to the development, improvement, and modification of laboratory procedures
- Conduct and initiate research related to acute flaccid paralysis and environmental surveillance
- Collaborate with stakeholders to generate data analysis reports and perform custom analyses as required
- Support total quality management processes to ensure accurate and reliable laboratory results
- Conduct relevant basic and applied research aligned with institutional public health objectives
Minimum Education and Training
- Bachelor of Science (Honours) degree
Minimum Work Experience
- At least one year of experience in laboratory techniques
Professional Registration
- HPCSA registration as a Medical Scientist in Virology or Microbiology (completed or in process)
Desirable Additional Qualifications and Competencies
- Experience in acute flaccid paralysis and environmental surveillance
- Previous experience in a diagnostic laboratory environment
- Knowledge of appropriate research methodologies
- Strong verbal and written communication skills
- Ability to troubleshoot and work both independently and within a multidisciplinary team
- Innovative thinking and problem-solving skills
- Scientific writing and analytical competence
- Basic biostatistical knowledge
Employment Equity
In line with Employment Equity goals and the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, preference will be given to suitable applicants from designated groups.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates should send an email application to [email protected].
The subject line must read: Medical Scientist:01.
Applications must include:
- A cover letter (maximum one page) clearly stating the vacancy applied for
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae
Ensure all required documentation is submitted before the closing date.
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