Research Technician -Virology (Three(3) Year Fixed Term Contract (Roodeplaat) needed at Agricultural Research Council

Description

• Contributes to DALRRD Research project(s): Survey of viruses on tomatoes, peppers, potatoes and Solanaceous weeds.
• field work and sample collection – assist with collection of samples on field trips.
• Viral diagnostics: molecular assays according to set protocols, plants or soil sample storage, nucleic.
• Viral diagnostics: molecular assays according to set protocols, plant or soil sample storage, nucleic acid (DNA/RNA) extraction and various diagnostic assays, including ELISA, RT-PCR or PCR and gel electrophoresis, viral identification by sanger sequencing and/or NGS.
• Laboratory management :assist with buffer preparation, organization of the laboratory, management of equipment, sample storage.  
• 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.
• General : attention to detail and work accuracy, ability to work under pressure and handling of high work loadat times. 

Requirements

• MSc Degree in Plant Pathology, Molecular biology, Genetics, Virology, Biochemistry or Honours Degree with 3 years experience and strong skills in virology, molecular diagnostic skills, cloning, sequencing and phylogenetics.
• Previous work experience within a diagnostic laboratory will be an advantage.
• Candidate should be capable of designing and carrying out high-level, complex research experiments independently.
• Ability to work in diverse teams.
• Ability to be hands-on and excellent problem solving skills.
• Ability to organize, prioritize and work systematically.
• Prior experience in molecular laboratory and glasshouse and tunnel facilities.
• Proficiency in MS Office suite.
• Excellent communication Skills (Written and Verbal).
• Drivers license 08/EB driver.