15 Scientific Supervisor jobs in South Africa

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RGA ready
RGA is a purpose-driven organization working to solve today's challenges through innovation and collaboration. A Fortune 500 Company and listed among its
World's Most Admired Companies
, we're the only global reinsurance company to focus primarily on life- and health-related solutions. Join our multinational team of intelligent, motivated, and collaborative people, and help us make financial protection accessible to all.

A Brief Overview
Senior Underwriter with life underwriting experience and experience working on underwriting systems to assist with the development and rollout of new novel underwriting technology and digital solutions to ensure RGA remains at the forefront of the industry whilst maintaining long term profitability and steadfast risk management practices. The Research & Development Underwriter, is an influential position, impacting new business growth and, RGA's brand in product development, innovation, risk management and underwriting excellence.

What You Will Do

• Work closely with other team members in, Underwriting, Claims, Business Development and Regional teams to develop new digital underwriting opportunities and transform opportunities into concrete solutions. Ensure the implementation of these digital solutions will drive profitable and sustainable growth for RGA and its clients.
• Work closely with internal/external stakeholders and contribute to develop, test, pilot, launch and maintain new underwriting technology tools and digital solutions. Develop and test underwriting rules ensuring that they are aligned with RGA's underwriting philosophy and Global Underwriting Manual (GUM). Embed these tools into clients' operational processes.
• Work closely with various RGA experts within local, regional, and global teams to identify, discuss and obtain approval for new underwriting solutions.
• Participate in client meetings to present underwriting solutions, handle concerns, address queries, resolve challenges and negotiate optimal outcomes. Develop strong relationships with underwriting, medical and operations personnel at client companies.
• Pro-active engagement with clients; active marketing and driving RGA's digital solutions with partners (including providing underwriting technology tool training for client companies and internal teams).
• Conduct retrospective underwriting/claims reconstruction with objective and independent assessment of cases within prescribed turnaround times, collaborating with claims and underwriting colleagues both internally and with clients, while also supporting the team by working on any other activities/projects within the scope of the Underwriting technical team on a need basis.
• Quality Assurance - experience in underwriting quality assurance reviews (conducting, reporting and involvement in remediation procedures).
• Conducting research in order to review recommended changes made by the direct offices e.g. product specification revision, occupation underwriting guidelines, underwriting standards and guidelines, revision of matrix, new proposed definitions/wording, pre-existing and contractual exclusions, and income factors.
• Render efficient, professional and courteous service to internal and external clients and ensure specified timelines and quality of service are maintained.
• Travel as per the requirements of the business for client meetings, presentations, training, internal/external events or seminars or for other related activities.

Qualifications

• Grade 12/Matric with Computer Literacy (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
• 7+ Years case underwriting experience handling medical and other living benefit products in a direct office environment.
• 3+ Years experience working on underwriting systems, developing rules, system testing in a direct office/reinsurance office.
• 2+ Years proven use of AI in the underwriting process with experience in marketing digital underwriting solutions
• Underwriting/Financial courses/certifications obtained with direct offices or reinsurers/senior level.
• Presentation skills certification/courses attended or equivalent thereof.
• Creative, agile and open minded with a flair to take up challenges and deliver solutions within agreed timelines.
• Strong presentation skills – ability to develop and deliver engaging presentations.
• Good knowledge of life insurance processes.
• Possession of a medical qualification.
• Demonstrated interpersonal skills and ability to build professional relationships with various stakeholders.
• Excellent oral and written communication and presentation skills.
• Ability to work independently.
• Proficiency in written and spoken English.

What you can expect from RGA

• Gain valuable knowledge from and experience with diverse, caring colleagues around the world.
• Enjoy a respectful, welcoming environment that fosters individuality and encourages pioneering thought.
• Join the bright and creative minds of RGA, and experience vast, endless career potential.

About the Company:

TASK is a South African headquartered, multinational clinical research institute that conducts clinical trials to determine the treatment effects of novel medicinal products or devices in healthcare and offers services in conducting complex clinical trials in a wide variety of therapeutic areas.

TASK Laboratory comprises Bio-Safety Level 2 and 3 (BSL-2/3) laboratories, which performs testing for drug susceptible and drug-resistant TB, using established diagnostic methods and new research platforms.

Overall Purpose of the Position:

The role takes ownership of laboratory processes, ensures compliance with SOPs and quality standards, and upholds the integrity and reliability expected of TASK Laboratory. In addition, the role provides first class clinical tuberculosis laboratory services by performing technical procedures and administrative duties, as well as to oversee tasks delegated to laboratory staff, within the scope of activities provided by the TASK laboratory for clinical drug trials.

Key Performance Areas (KPAs) & Responsibilities include, but not limited to:

• Supervising day to day activities of the laboratory staff (BSL3) to obtain maximized outcomes and to ensure timeous reporting of results and meeting the expected turnaround times
• Motivating staff to complete tasks/processing of samples according to training and by following the most recent version of the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP)
• Developing and implementing practical continuous improvement processes
• Providing support and training to implement a culture of responsibility to effectively improve the performance of technicians and technologists and to ensure that a high standard of laboratory service is delivered
• Managing resources to consistently meet goals
• Performing all tasks in accordance with the Health and Safety regulations of the OHS Act
• Applying analytical skills to resolve critical issues and undertakes troubleshooting wherever necessary
• Managing sample collection / suitability for setup and analysis according to specific schedule
• Ensuring that equipment is used according to manufacturers' manuals and reporting faulty equipment without delay to responsible person/management
• Preparing reagents/media according to processes and procedures if applicable
• Managing the data requirement for the efficient functioning and smooth running of the laboratory to meet clinical requirements by addressing and resolving queries timeously
• Ensuring verification and interpretation of results; monitoring quality always and ensuring that results are delivered timeously to source
• Ensuring that a high standard is always maintained by ensuring that the environment/workspace will not impact the outcome of a clinical trial, for example, cleanliness of the laboratory
• Testing quality of media/reagents used in lab, troubleshoots if required and reporting accordingly
• Processing MIC and drawing up timelines for MIC results which need to be reported to sponsor and management
• Processing routine samples when required
• Ideal Requirements
• Relevant National Diploma or BSc degree in microbiology
• At least 3 years' experience working in a TB microbiology lab or similar environment
• Demonstrated ability to work with or adapt to evolving laboratory technologies (e.g., LIMS, automated platforms, digital data systems)

Advantageous:

• Experience supervising staff and/or processes within a TB microbiology laboratory or similar environment.
• Experience working in a Biosafety Level 3 laboratory
• Experience working in a clinical trial environment

Key Personal Inherent Characteristics

• Highly focused individual with attention to detail who takes pride in the quality of their work
• Ability to work under pressure and manage deadlines
• Team player with diplomacy and tact
• Ability to develop trusting and meaningful relations and always be professional
• Effective communication skills
• Analytical, problem solving and follow-up skills
• Ability to plan and organize in a deadline driven environment
• Ability to lead and motivate team
• Able to embrace and adapt to change
• Exhibits a structured, methodical approach to managing workloads and guiding staff
• Displays professional maturity, accountability, and a strong sense of duty toward team and organisational objectives
• Systems / efficiencies driven

Details:

Area: Parow, Cape Town

Contract Type: Permanent

Applications Close: 20 October 2025 at 10h00

Please indicate in your application that you are applying for the above-mentioned position.

If you have not received a response within one month, your application was most likely unsuccessful.

TASK reserves the right to withdraw this advertisement and not fill the above-mentioned vacancy at any stage during the recruitment process.

Meeting our employment equity goals will be acknowledged during the recruitment process.

By responding to this advert and sending your cv, cover letter and/or any other documentation, you are consenting to TASK processing your personal information as contained in the furnished documents. TASK may process your personal information for recruitment purposes for suitable posts that may arise within the organisation. You agree that you have familiarised yourself with South Africa's Protection of Personal Information Act and understand your rights and obligations under this Act.

Job Types: Full-time, Permanent

Application Question(s):

• Do you have a National Diploma or BSc degree in microbiology?
• Do you have a minimum of 3 years' experience working in a TB microbiology lab or similar environment?
• What are your monthly gross salary expectations (before deductions)?
• What is your notice period?

Work Location: In person

Application Deadline: 2025/10/22

This is a full time on-site role for a Laboratory Supervisor for the Clinical Laboratory department of JDJ Diagnostics Musgrave Laboratories in the KZN region.

Minimum Requirements

• HPCSA Qualified in Clinical Pathology
• 7 years experience in a Pathology Laboratory.
• 1-2 years experience in management.
• Excellent leadership and team management.
• Strong Operations Management Skills

Key Accountabilities
1. Meet Test Turn Around Times Within Targeted Timeframes and Standards

• Develop and implement systems to meet 95% of TAT performance.

2. Accurate Processing of Patient Samples

• Performs diagnostic testing procedures, reviews and verifies results and interacts with pathologists on technical matters to provide all relevant data that may pertain to the prevention, diagnosis or treatment of diseases.

3. Actively Manages Stock Levels Within Agreed Parameters and Safety Stock Levels

• Submit stock forecast as per deadlines, referencing the last 30 days' tests and accurate stock-on-hand values.
• Actively monitor tests per week versus forecast and address anomalies.
• Report on usage per analyser; identify excessive wastage versus designed specifications.
• Records of stock control to present consumption.

4. Effective Capacity, Resource Planning and Scheduling

• Facilitate that the departmental operations are functional and that service delivery to clients and patients is met.
• Ensure that shift coverage with scheduled work arrangements is met and complies with HR requirements.

5. Team Management

• Design a Training and Competency Plan for staff development.
• Facilitate all educational opportunities and activities for staff to ensure objectives and performance standards are adhered to.

6. Resolution of Queries and Complaints

• Actively address and action internal and external complaints in a systematic manner, implement corrective actions and monitor effectiveness for adherence to protocols.

7. Effectively Manage the Assets (Equipment)
required to achieve the Department's Operation Requirements

• Report on physical, financial and contractual aspects of all equipment on a monthly basis.

8. Cost Management

• Monitor, control and report on operational costs without compromising quality standards.

9. Quality Assurance by Implementing Good Lab Practices Referencing SANAS
/ ISO 15189 Standards

• Ensure compliance to standard operating procedures, work instructions, checklists, and resolution of non-conformances.
• To actively uphold compliance to the quality standards in the organisation.
• Participates in continuing professional development (CPD) activities, training, and seminars to stay current on knowledge and skills and to meet professional registration requirements. This also requires the availability of up-to-date records.

10. Health, Safety and Environment

• Ensures that all staff are compliant to all Health and Safety rules and regulations to prevent incidents and minimise exposure to risks to personnel and the environment.

Minimum 2-5 years of Penetration Testing experience required

- Including conducting different types of assessments, such as network, mobile, web, thick, wireless, social engineering, physical, etc.

The duties for this role are divided into three areas of responsibility, namely Penetration Testing, Red Teaming and Research and Development.

Penetration Testing Duties :

Work as part of a vulnerability assessment and /or penetration testing team, taking direction from line managers and executing directives in a thorough and timely fashion

Conduct vulnerability assessments on a wide variety of technologies and implementations utilising both automated tools and manual techniques

Conduct network penetration tests

Conduct application penetration tests (web and thick client)

Conduct wireless and mobile security assessments

Conduct social engineering assessments

Conduct physical security assessments

Effectively communicate successes and obstacles with fellow team members and line managers

Interface with client contact(s) and staff in a constructive and professional manner

Develop subject matter expertise in topics to include: network, database, wireless and application security assessments and adversarial network operations

Utilise common vulnerability assessment and penetration testing tools

Red Teaming Duties :

Working as part of a Red Team and assisting with the following duties (but not limited to):

Initial reconnaissance open-source intelligence (OSINT) for collecting information on the targets

Initial compromise gaining a foothold into the target environment through targeting weaknesses in people, process and / or technology.

Deploy command-and-control servers (C&C or C2) and custom payloads to establish communication / persistence in the targets network.

Develop tools, techniques and procedures to evade detection by blue team (including the development of custom payloads)

Escalate privileges and maintain persistence

Exfiltrate and / or complete objectives

Research and Development Duties :

Research new vulnerabilities with a focus on high-profile products

Understand the terminology and tactics employed by threat actors

- Research new attack methods

ResearchULL (Pty) Ltd – Research & Development Internship Opportunity

Are you passionate about research, innovation, and solving real-world challenges through knowledge?

Do you want to gain hands-on experience that bridges academia, industry, and society?

ResearchULL (Pty) Ltd invites applications for a Research and Development Intern to join our dynamic team in Pretoria, Gauteng.

Company Description

ResearchULL (Pty) Ltd
is a premier research and research skill development service provider, dedicated to bridging the gap between academia, industry, and society. The company offers personalised research support to postgraduate students in higher education while also providing strategic and applied research solutions to address organisational, industrial, and societal challenges.

Our mission is to help individuals maximise their research potential and empower industry professionals to make data-driven decisions that drive innovation, performance, and sustainability.

ResearchULL supports both academic and applied research pathways. Beyond supporting postgraduate research, the company partners with industries and institutions to design, implement, and evaluate research projects that inform policy development, operational improvement, and innovation strategies.

With a multidisciplinary team of experts, ResearchULL continues to reimagine how research can be used as a tool for societal impact and industrial transformation across Africa.

If you are looking to grow in an environment that values
impact, curiosity, and collaboration
, this internship is for you.

Role Description

As a
Research and Development Intern
, you will:

·   Support ongoing R&D projects through research design, data collection, and analysis.

·   Conduct research and contribute to project documentation.

·   Participate in innovation and brainstorming sessions with our research team.

·   Assist in preparing presentations, reports, and concept notes.

·   Work across multidisciplinary projects that link research to real-world impact.

Location:
Pretoria, Gauteng

Type:
Full-time internship

Qualifications

• Final-year student or recent graduate (Honours, Postgraduate Diploma, or Master's level).
• Background in Engineering, Management Sciences, Social Sciences, Development Studies, or Information Systems.
• Basic understanding of research design, data analysis, and reporting.
• Strong communication, problem-solving, and analytical skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary environment.
• A genuine passion for learning, innovation, and societal impact.

Development Benefits

This internship is designed as a skills acceleration and research exposure opportunity for emerging researchers who aspire to build meaningful experience in both academic and applied research contexts.

• Interns benefit from:
• Direct mentorship from experienced researchers and professionals.
• Hands-on exposure to live academic and industrial projects.
• Training in professional research tools and methods (SPSS, NVivo, , Excel).
• Certificate of completion and recommendation for top performers.

This opportunity is ideal for individuals who value growth, learning, and impact over immediate remuneration — and who are ready to invest in their professional research journey.

How to Apply

• If you are ready to start your journey in professional research and innovation, send your CV and a short motivation letter to with the subject line: Application – Research & Development Intern (Pretoria)

Application Deadline:
10 November 2025

Join us — and be part of a movement that turns research into impact
.

Vacancy: Research and Development Manager

Location: Florida, Roodepoort

The Research and Development (R&D) Manager position is vacant at the Training Centre in Florida. The ideal candidate will be responsible for overseeing the design, development, and continuous improvement of training materials, programmes, and curriculum aligned with industry standards and accreditation requirements. This role plays a critical function in ensuring the quality, relevance, and innovation of the Training Department's learning offerings.

Minimum Requirements:

• Grade 12/Matric certificate (minimum); a relevant Degree or Diploma in Education, Training Development, or a related field is highly advantageous.
• Proven experience in research, curriculum development, or instructional design within a training or educational environment.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office applications, especially Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure in a fast-paced and dynamic environment.
• Strong project management, organizational, and time management skills.
• Valid driver's license with reliable transport is an advantage.
• Clear criminal record with no pending cases.
• Reside within the West Rand area preferred.

Key Responsibilities:

• Lead the design, development, review, and updating of training materials and programmes to ensure alignment with unit standards, SETA/QCTO accreditation requirements, and industry best practices.
• Conduct research on emerging trends, regulations, and technologies relevant to the training programmes and integrate findings into curriculum improvements.
• Collaborate with Quality Assurance and Skills Development teams to maintain compliance and support accreditation processes.
• Manage the development and contextualisation of new learning content for Skills Programmes and Learnerships.
• Facilitate pilot testing and validation of training materials with stakeholders to ensure quality and relevance.
• Provide ongoing support and training to facilitators and assessors on new or updated learning materials.
• Maintain accurate documentation of curriculum changes, research findings, and development projects.
• Monitor and report on the effectiveness of training programmes and recommend improvements.
• Uphold organisational policies and standards in all research and development activities.

Other Attributes:

• Honest, reliable, and trustworthy.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Self-motivated, innovative, and proactive in problem-solving and continuous improvement.
• Detail-oriented with strong analytical and organizational skills.
• Ability to work collaboratively with diverse teams and manage multiple projects.

We are looking for a dedicated individual who is motivated to excel in a fast-paced and dynamic environment. If you meet the qualifications and are passionate about cost analysis in the security industry, we encourage you to apply for this exciting opportunity.

We reserve the right not to make an appointment to any advertised position.

Whilst preference is given to existing employees at all times and the choice made purely on merit, Historically Disadvantaged Candidates, Disabled Candidates and Black Female Candidates are encouraged and supported in the FSG team.

Fidelity Security Group (Pty) Ltd supports global fair practice and business ethics on continuous development of our human capital as the key resource to our success in the markets in which we participate.

Role Purpose
To deliver high-quality research through the planning and execution of broiler and breeder trials, to ensure bird performance optimisation aligned with our strategic objectives.

Role Contribution To Organisational Strategy
Aligned with Astral's best cost and operational excellence, the R&D Manager optimises broiler production through trial management and protocol adherence, supporting sustainability and growth strategies.

Role Responsibilities

• Design and implementation of trial protocols.
• Conduct broiler trails accurately according to protocol.
• Accurate trial feed formulations.
• Innovate and optimise broiler trial methodologies.
• Implement waste reduction in trial processes.
• Drive adoption of technology in trials.
• Lead broiler production unit management initiatives.
• Foster supplier development for trial facilities.
• Ensure compliance with bio-security and health management.
• Precise data collection and analysis.

Qualifications
Role Requirements:

• Minimum qualification: MSc in Agric Animal Science or in progress of obtaining the qualification.
• Advantage: Diploma in Data Analytics.

Experience

• Total of 2 years minimum work experience.
• Minimum of 2 years experience working in Agriculture & FMCG environment.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in trial feed formulation.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in conducting scientific broiler trials and the interpretation of results.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in managing a broiler production units.

Skills And Knowledge

• Poultry health and bio-security protocols.
• Feed formulation and techniques.
• Poultry management.
• Broiler performance testing.
• Research methodology.
• Data analysis.

Role purpose:

To deliver high-quality research through the planning and execution of broiler and breeder trials, to ensure bird performance optimisation aligned with our strategic objectives.

Role contribution to organisational strategy:

Aligned with Astral's best cost and operational excellence, the R&D Manager optimises broiler production through trial management and protocol adherence, supporting sustainability and growth strategies.

Role Responsibilities:

• Design and implementation of trial protocols.
• Conduct broiler trails accurately according to protocol.
• Accurate trial feed formulations.
• Innovate and optimise broiler trial methodologies.
• Implement waste reduction in trial processes.
• Drive adoption of technology in trials.
• Lead broiler production unit management initiatives.
• Foster supplier development for trial facilities.
• Ensure compliance with bio-security and health management.
• Precise data collection and analysis.

Role Requirements:

Qualifications:

• Minimum qualification: MSc in Agric Animal Science or in progress of obtaining the qualification.
• Advantage: Diploma in Data Analytics.

Experience:

• Total of 2 years minimum work experience.
• Minimum of 2 years experience working in Agriculture & FMCG environment.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in trial feed formulation.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in conducting scientific broiler trials and the interpretation of results.
• Minimum of 2 years experience in managing a broiler production units.

Skills and Knowledge:

• Poultry health and bio-security protocols.
• Feed formulation and techniques.
• Poultry management.
• Broiler performance testing.
• Research methodology.
• Data analysis.

Johannesburg

Lanseria

Published Date: 29 September 2025

Closing Date: 13 October 2025

Our client in the Agricultural Industry in Springs, has an opportunity for a Research and Development Manager to join their team. The successful candidate will lead and oversee the development of innovative plant nutrition products that meet market needs. This role drives scientific discovery, product improvement and process optimization by coordinating cross-functional research efforts, collaborating with internal teams and external partners. The R&D Manager ensures that the company remains at the forefront of plant nutrition technology.

Duties & Responsibilities

• Lead the formulation and development of new Plant Nutrition products.
• Evaluate opportunities that will enhance the effectiveness of Plant Nutrition by improving crop performance.
• Perform project and product feasibility studies.
• Define and implement a R&D roadmap aligned with business goals and market trends in order to define short and long term projects.
• Apply scientific methods to support research findings.
• Design trial protocols, oversee the management of the research projects, analyse data and write reports within the required timelines.
• Maintain good documentation practices for protocols and reports, develop SOP's.
• Support product registration process.
• Troubleshoot technical issues during production phases.
• Hands-on involvement with experiments in the laboratory, greenhouse and field trials.
• Manage the routine activities in the laboratory.
• Foster a culture of innovation, safety and continuous learning and collaboration within the R&D department.
• Improve the knowledge of biotechnology within the agronomic team.
• Lead and mentor junior members of the team.
• Allocate resources, manage R&D budgets, and track project timelines.
• Bring world class trends to the business

Desired Experience & Qualification

Master's Degree in a field of Biotechnology (Biochemistry, Microbiology, Plant Physiology) or Traditional Agronomy

A minimum of 10 years' experience in the Agriculture Industry

5+ years of experience leading teams

Fluent in Afrikaans/English.