16 Research Laboratory jobs in South Africa

• Installs, calibrates, maintains, inspects and services/repairs instrumentation used in agricultural production measurement in the lab, field and glasshouses.


• Conduct field/lab/glasshouse tests and experiments to evaluate crop performance, soil conditions, and equipment efficiency.


• Plans and coordinates own work activities aligned with project plans.


• Supervises allocated HR resources.


• Assists in managing project budgets and adheres to financial controls.


• Conducts research support, diagnostics, and other services under supervision. 


• Renders technical services and optimizes equipment/processes/systems. 


• Provides input into the optimization of new technologies. 


• Collects, captures, and processes data with basic analysis. 


• Provides verbal and written reports on activities and results. 


• Presents findings to stakeholders (including training/advisory roles). 


• Adheres to quality standards. 


• Complies with SHE/OHS regulations and procedures.


• Evidence of contributions to publications or presentations (e.g., farmers' days).


• Demonstrates measurable outcomes and project impact.


• Support capacity development and training of junior staff.

• National Diploma in Agriculture, Bioresources Engineering, Instrumentation or a closely related field.


• BTech or BSc Degree will be an added advantage.


• Experience in instrumentation installation, operation, calibration, use and maintenance for equipment used in agricultural data collection e.g. plant growth parameters, irrigation and soil. 


• Background in crop production and management will be an added advantage.


• Ability to work under pressure while ensuring timely and high-quality analysis. 


• Knowledge of laboratory quality management systems. 


• Good communication skills (verbal and written). 


• A valid driver’s license and able to drive long distance.


• Registration with a relevant scientific or professional body will be an added advantage. 

Enquiries: MS YVONNE HADZHI AND MS ROELENE MARX, Tel: (012) 

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATION: 31 OCTOBER 2025 

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 designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months’ probation period. 

The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

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

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 company has the right not to appoint

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

We're looking for a passionate and detail-oriented individual to join our Food Technology Lab. This role is ideal for someone who thrives in a hands-on, experimental environment and is eager to contribute to innovative food product development, testing, and quality assurance.

Job Description

As a Food Technologist / Lab Technician, you will be responsible for supporting the development, testing, and refinement of food products and processes. Your work will directly impact product safety, quality, and innovation.

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct laboratory tests on food samples for quality, safety, and nutritional content
• Assist in the formulation and development of new food products
• Maintain accurate records of experiments, results, and formulations
• Operate and calibrate lab equipment (e.g., pH meters, moisture analyzers, spectrophotometers)
• Ensure compliance with food safety regulations and internal standards
• Collaborate with R&D, production, and quality assurance teams
• Prepare samples for sensory evaluation and shelf-life testing
• Monitor and document environmental conditions in the lab
• Assist in sourcing and testing new ingredients or packaging materials

Requirements

Education & Experience:

• Diploma or Degree in Food Technology, Food Science, Biotechnology, or related field
• 1–3 years of experience in a food lab or production environment (entry-level applicants with strong academic background will be considered)

Skills & Competencies:

• Strong understanding of food chemistry, microbiology, and safety standards
• Familiarity with HACCP, ISO, or GMP protocols
• Excellent attention to detail and record-keeping
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team
• Strong communication and problem-solving skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office and basic lab software

Bonus Skills (Not Required):

• Experience with sensory analysis panels
• Familiarity with HACCP, ISO, or GMP implementation
• Knowledge of plant-based or alternative protein formulations
• Familiarity with regulatory submissions or product labeling

Job Type: Full-time

Work Location: In person

Purpose:

Assure all Quality activities are performed according to BOS-, TS 16 949-, ISO 9000 standards and specific customer requirements. Develop and maintains test instructions.

Responsibilities:

Plan and execute all necessary measurements in the lab

Experience in writing measuring programmes.

Conduct various testing functions within the laboratory environment according to international standards.

Manage gauge and test equipment calibration system

Perform calibration

Perform R&R studies and performs wear trend analyses

Assure compliance to ISO / IEC 17025 standard

Manage Product Audits within plant

Ensure that continuous improvement is made in all Production MEQ Quality Deliverables (e.g.:

RPPM, CPPM, IPPM, SPPM, Quality Costs, Customer Product Audits and Warranty / JD Power)

Ensure that customer and internally identified quality issues are resolved using the company problem solving methods (8D Report, Problem Solving Document “PSD”, PCAD, Kepner-Tregoe, etc.)

Prepare necessary corrective / preventive actions, follow up, verify and release of actions.

Execute any reasonable request from Quality Manager.

Requirements:

A Bachelor´s degree is required (or equivalent experience)

Specific education and training in Quality disciplines including as a minimum QS9000,

Continuous Improvement, Total Quality Management, PPAP, FMEA, Control plans, DOE and SPC are also required

Minimum 5 years in automotive industry, minimum 3 years in quality area.

Activities and Responsibilities:

Research Design and Tool Development

• Assist in the development and refinement of research tools (e.g., interview guides, focus group guides, workshop guides), ensuring they are youth- and gender-sensitive.
• Support the translation and localization of research instruments for use in different cultural and linguistic settings in which the study will be in.

Fieldwork Preparation

• Assist in organizing fieldwork logistics such as coordinating interviews, managing schedules, and liaising with local partners.
• Data collection support
• Participate in or observe qualitative data collection (e.g., interviews, focus group discussions) where appropriate, under supervision.
• Engage respectfully and ethically with youth participants, particularly when discussing sensitive SRHR topics.

Data Management and Preliminary Analysis

• Transcribe or code qualitative data, support data cleaning for survey datasets.
• Assist in identifying key themes, patterns, and issues relevant to youth mobility and access to SRHR services.
• Academic writing and dissemination.
• Draft sections of internal reports, policy briefs, or academic papers in collaboration with senior researchers.
• Assist in preparing presentation materials for conferences, seminars, or stakeholder workshops.

Project Coordination and Communication

• Attend regular research team meetings and contribute to collaborative planning and problem-solving.
• Maintain organised project files and contribute to documenting fieldwork processes and challenges.
• Engage in research mentorship activities, such as methods workshops or writing retreats, where available.

Minimum Requirements:

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Social Sciences, Public Health, or related discipline).
• Previous research or fieldwork experience.
• Experience working with communities or participants.
• Knowledge of local language(s) including Zulu, Sotho and other local languages.

Personal Attributes:

• Professionalism, reliability, and integrity.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality.
• Flexibility and adaptability to fieldwork conditions.
• Cultural sensitivity and respect for diverse populations.

Remuneration: ZAR per annum

Detailed Description

Job Requirements

Additional Details

How To Apply

To apply, please submit a cover letter clearly outlining your skills and experience, indicating the post that you are applying for, together with a CV and the names and contact details of at least three (3) references on the link:

For queries, contact Sonti Masike, Executive PA/HR Officer, by email

on

Closing date: 30 September 2025, close of business

The University is committed to employment equity. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the relevant employment equity plans and policies of the University. The University retains the right not to make an appointment and to verify all information provided by candidates.

Please note that correspondence will only be entered into with shortlisted candidates. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment or to re-advertise.

Minimum Salary

Maximum Salary

Currency

Amount of Travel

Work At Home

Description
Job Title Research Assistant Location Braamfontein,ZA Organization Name Wits Enterprise Department Description The Research Assistant will support a regional research project focused on understanding the impacts of youth mobility and migration on access to sexual and reproductive health and rights (SRHR) services in Southern Africa. The project explores how internal and cross-border migration, displacement, and patterns of urbanisation influence young people's access to comprehensive SRHR services. Brief Description

Activities And Responsibilities
Research Design and Tool Development

• Assist in the development and refinement of research tools (e.g., interview guides, focus group guides, workshop guides), ensuring they are youth- and gender-sensitive.
• Support the translation and localization of research instruments for use in different cultural and linguistic settings in which the study will be in.

Fieldwork Preparation

• Assist in organizing fieldwork logistics such as coordinating interviews, managing schedules, and liaising with local partners.
• Data collection support
• Participate in or observe qualitative data collection (e.g., interviews, focus group discussions) where appropriate, under supervision.
• Engage respectfully and ethically with youth participants, particularly when discussing sensitive SRHR topics.

Data Management and Preliminary Analysis

• Transcribe or code qualitative data, support data cleaning for survey datasets.
• Assist in identifying key themes, patterns, and issues relevant to youth mobility and access to SRHR services.
• Academic writing and dissemination.
• Draft sections of internal reports, policy briefs, or academic papers in collaboration with senior researchers.
• Assist in preparing presentation materials for conferences, seminars, or stakeholder workshops.

Project Coordination and Communication

• Attend regular research team meetings and contribute to collaborative planning and problem-solving.
• Maintain organised project files and contribute to documenting fieldwork processes and challenges.
• Engage in research mentorship activities, such as methods workshops or writing retreats, where available.

Minimum Requirements

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., Social Sciences, Public Health, or related discipline).
• Previous research or fieldwork experience.
• Experience working with communities or participants.
• Knowledge of local language(s) including Zulu, Sotho and other local languages.

Personal Attributes

• Professionalism, reliability, and integrity.
• Ability to handle sensitive information with confidentiality.
• Flexibility and adaptability to fieldwork conditions.
• Cultural sensitivity and respect for diverse populations.

Remuneration: ZAR per annum
Requirements
Detailed Description Job Requirements Additional Details How To Apply

To apply, please submit a cover letter clearly outlining your skills and experience, indicating the post that you are applying for, together with a CV and the names and contact details of at least three (3) references on the link:

For queries, contact Sonti Masike, Executive PA/HR Officer, by email

on

Closing date: 30 September 2025, close of business
***The University is committed to employment equity. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the relevant employment equity plans and policies of the University. The University retains the right not to make an appointment and to verify all information provided by candidates.

Please note that correspondence will only be entered into with shortlisted candidates. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment or to re-advertise.***
Minimum Salary Maximum Salary Currency Amount of Travel Work At Home

Project: Unequal Adaptation to Water Insecurity in South African Townships

About the Role

Where: Johannesburg area

When: September–October (8 weeks)

Type: Paid, on-site, part-time (local hire)

Responsibilities

• Conduct semi-structured interviews with residents, community leaders, and NGOs—focused on water access, non-revenue water (NRW), and sanitation.
• Facilitate 1–2 focus groups to surface coping norms, trust, and practical ideas to improve water services and sanitation.
• Join field walk-alongs in informal settlements to observe daily water/sanitation practices; take careful notes and (where appropriate) photos; deliver short weekly insight memos.
• Handle recruitment, consent, audio recording, transcription/translation, and confidentiality (POPIA-compliant).

Qualifications

• Based in Gauteng; fluent in English plus a local language (e.g., isiZulu, Sesotho, Setswana, isiXhosa).
• A university student or recent graduate with knowledge of—or strong interest in—water.

Required Skills

• Outgoing and proactive, with strong note-taking and people skills.
• Reliable, discreet, and safety-minded (transport stipends provided).
• A person with existing networks in Johannesburg area and knowledge of Johannesburg Water pathways.

Pay range and compensation package

Paid, on-site, part-time (local hire)

Equal Opportunity Statement

We are committed to diversity and inclusivity.

• South African National Parks (SANParks)

Research Assistant at South African National Parks

• Deadline:

23 September 2025

• Region:

Kimberley, Northern Cape

• Salary:

Paterson Grade B3

• Type of employment:

Full time

Job Description
A vacancy exists within Scientific Services for a Research Assistant stationed in Kimberley Scientific Services.

Roles and Responsibilities

• Assist with conducting Research in Arid parks and others.
• Provide guarding and guiding support in the Arid parks.
• Assist with the maintenance of research infrastructures, research sites and equipment.
• Assist with data collection, routine monitoring data, mapping and data capturing.
• Assist with rehabilitation plans and assessment.
• Assisting with report writing.
• Assist with the implementation of the fire management program within the Arid parks.
• Liaison to park management and scientist within SANParks and external scientists.

Qualifications And Requirements

• Matric / Grade 12 certificate.
• An Advanced Certificate in Conservation will be an added advantage.
• Proficient in reading, writing, and communicating effectively in English.
• Knowledge and understanding of veld firefighting practices.
• Competent in using GPS and CyberTracker technologies.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Teams, Excel, and Word.
• A valid Level 1 First Aid Certificate will be advantageous.
• 2 – 5 years of experience participating in field research activities.
• Ability to work independently as well as collaboratively within a team.
• Valid Driver's licence.
• Basic computer literacy will be an added advantage.

Please Note:
SANParks is an equal opportunity employer and reserves the right not to make an appointment.
How to apply

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements should forward their applications accompanied by the their detailed CV's and copies of qualifications to: with the subject heading: "Research Assistant".

Apply here

Candidates who do not apply via the provided link will not be considered.

Closing Date: 23 September 2025. Candidates who have not been responded to within 14 days of the closing date should consider their applications as unsuccessful.

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More about this vacancy

• Date posted:

11 September 2025

Back to #NGOJobsBoard

We're hiring: Research Assistant (Johannesburg) - Qualitative fieldwork on water & sanitation

Project: Unequal Adaptation to Water Insecurity in South African Townships

Where: Johannesburg area When: September-October (8 weeks) Type: Paid, on-site, part-time (local hire)

What you'll do (qualitative only)

Conduct semi-structured interviews with residents, community leaders, and NGOs - focused on water access, non-revenue water (NRW), and sanitation.

Facilitate 12 focus groups to surface coping norms, trust, and practical ideas to improve water services and sanitation.

Join field walk-alongs in informal settlements to observe daily water/sanitation practices; take careful notes and (where appropriate) photos; deliver short weekly insight memos.

Handle recruitment, consent, audio recording, transcription/translation, and confidentiality (POPIA-compliant).

You are

Based in Gauteng; fluent in English plus a local language (e.g., isiZulu, Sesotho, Setswana, isiXhosa).

A university student or recent graduate with knowledge of - or strong interest in - water

Outgoing and proactive, with strong note-taking and people skills.

Reliable, discreet, and safety-minded (transport stipends provided).

• A person with existing networks in the Johannesburg area and knowledge of Johannesburg Water pathways.