3 Laboratory Operations jobs in South Africa

Job Title: Laboratory Technician & Personal Assistant

Location: University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), Durban, South Africa

Department: School of Laboratory Medicine & Medical Sciences

Reports To: Professor Veron Ramsuran

Position Overview:

We are seeking a motivated and detail-oriented individual to join our team as a Laboratory Technician & Personal Assistant to Prof. Veron Ramsuran. This is a dual role that combines laboratory support with administrative and personal assistance. The successful candidate will be responsible for managing laboratory procedures while also assisting with scheduling, communication, and organizational tasks.

Key Responsibilities:

Laboratory Technician Duties:

• Receive, log, and track incoming biological samples.
• Prepare samples for analysis, including nucleic acid extraction.
• Perform molecular biology techniques, including PCR (conventional and/or real-time).
• Assist in maintaining accurate laboratory records, databases, and chain of custody logs.
• Monitor and maintain laboratory inventory, reagents, and consumables.
• Follow standard operating procedures (SOPs) and ensure compliance with biosafety guidelines.
• Assist with troubleshooting laboratory equipment and technical protocols.
• Support research projects under the guidance of Prof. Ramsuran and other senior staff.

Personal Assistant Duties:

• Manage and coordinate Prof. Ramsuran's calendar, meetings, and appointments.
• Draft, proofread, and manage correspondence (emails, memos, documents, reports).
• Assist with travel arrangements, conference bookings, and related logistics.
• Organize and maintain files, records, and confidential documents.
• Act as the first point of contact for internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide general administrative support to ensure smooth day-to-day operations.
• Assist in project coordination, deadline tracking, and meeting follow-ups.

Communication & Liaison:

• Act as the primary point of contact between Professor Ramsuran and internal/external stakeholders including students, faculty, collaborators, funders, and administrative staff.
• Screen and prioritize emails, calls, and requests, responding on behalf of the Professor when appropriate.
• Coordinate communication with local and international research collaborators.

Research & Academic Support:

• Assist with the preparation and submission of research proposals, ethical approvals, and academic manuscripts.
• Manage reference materials and assist with literature reviews or presentation materials.
• Track research project timelines, deliverables, and reporting obligations.

Travel & Event Coordination:

• Organize national and international travel including visa arrangements, accommodation, transport, and itineraries.
• Coordinate logistics for academic conferences, workshops, meetings, and public lectures.

Financial & Procurement Administration:

• Support with processing reimbursements, travel claims, and budget tracking related to research projects.
• Assist in procurement processes for laboratory or office supplies, ensuring compliance with UKZN procurement policies.

Student & Team Support:

• Serve as a liaison for postgraduate students and research staff reporting to Professor Ramsuran.
• Coordinate schedules, progress meetings, and documentation related to student supervision.

Requirements & Qualifications:

• Bachelor's degree or diploma in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Medical Laboratory Science, or related field.
• Prior laboratory experience with sample handling, extraction, and PCR techniques is essential.
• Strong organizational and multitasking skills.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• High level of professionalism, discretion, and confidentiality.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook).
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Preferred Skills & Attributes

• Experience in a research or academic laboratory setting.
• Knowledge of laboratory quality control and biosafety standards.
• Previous experience in an administrative or personal assistant role.
• Strong time management with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively.
• Problem-solving mindset with attention to detail.

Benefits

• Opportunity to work closely with a leading academic and research professional.
• Exposure to cutting-edge research in molecular biology.
• Supportive and collaborative working environment.
• Professional development opportunities.

Please submit your CV and cover letter outlining your relevant experience and suitability for this dual role.

Job Type: Full-time

Pay: From R10 000,00 per month

Education:

• Diploma (Required)

Work Location: In person