Wits Health Consortium Researcher – SBIMB Laboratory and Biobank (12 Months Fixed Term Contract) offers a valuable opportunity for research professionals to gain hands-on experience in laboratory-based research and biobanking within a leading health research environment. This fixed-term contract role focuses on supporting scientific studies, sample management, data integrity, and laboratory operations, making it ideal for candidates seeking to strengthen their careers in biomedical research and public health sciences.
Wits Health Consortium (Pty) Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of the Witwatersrand.
The organization will only respond to shortlisted candidates. Applicants who do not receive feedback within two weeks after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.
Position Details
Job Title: Researcher – SBIMB Laboratory and Biobank
Division: Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience
Contract Type: Fixed Term (12 Months)
Location: 9 Jubilee Road, Parktown, Johannesburg
Advert Reference Number: SBIMB Researcher
Closing Date: 27 February 2026
Main Purpose of the Job
To manage laboratory activities for the 1000 ONT long-read whole genome sequencing (WGS) project from Soweto, South Africa.
The role focuses on laboratory-based research, sequencing workflow management, protocol optimisation, and project support within the SBIMB Laboratory and Biobank.
Key Performance Areas
- Conduct research experiments and laboratory duties as identified by the Research Team
- Draft research protocols and develop Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
- Perform DNA extraction, quality control, and library preparation for the PromethION Oxford Nanopore Technologies (ONT) platform
- Set up, operate, and maintain the PromethION sequencing platform
- Troubleshoot and optimise PromethION ONT-based workflows
- Assist with literature reviews, draft research reports, and prepare figures and plots for presentations
Minimum Education and Training
- MSc or PhD in a relevant discipline such as Molecular Biology, Genetics, or Laboratory Science
- Demonstrated experience in molecular biology techniques
Minimum Work Experience
- At least two years of laboratory experience
- Experience with next-generation sequencing platforms is advantageous
Desirable Skills and Competencies
- Strong organizational and time-management skills
- Good written and verbal communication skills
- High level of attention to detail and self-motivation
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team
- Sound knowledge of laboratory best practices and standards
- Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
- Strong task ownership and accountability
Employment Equity
In line with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and subsequent amendments, preference will be given to suitable applicants from designated groups.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates should submit their application via email to [email protected].
The subject line must read: SBIMB Researcher and include the job title of the position applied for.
Applications must include:
- A cover letter (maximum one page) clearly stating the vacancy applied for
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae
Ensure that all required documentation is submitted before the closing date.
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