Job Title: Research Assistant – Roots, Tubers, and Bulbs
Location: Roodeplaat
Job Reference: ARC-VIMP0924
Industry: Research
Job Type: Three (3) Years Fixed Term Contract
Salary: Market Related
Closing Date: 12 September 2024
Job Description:
The Agricultural Research Council (ARC) seeks a dedicated Research Assistant for its Roots, Tubers, and Bulbs program. This position is key to supporting research personnel in the successful completion of projects, particularly in the areas of propagation, evaluation, and maintenance of plants, as well as assisting with laboratory and glasshouse trials.
Key Responsibilities:
- Research Support: Provide essential support to research personnel, ensuring the timely completion of projects according to ARC’s standards.
- Plant Propagation & Maintenance: Assist in the propagation, evaluation, and maintenance of plants. Prepare growth media and consumables as per protocol for tissue culture and glasshouse trials.
- Lab Optimization: Help optimize research and administrative processes within the laboratory. Maintain equipment to ensure its longevity and efficient use.
- Quality Control: Adhere to quality standards in all research activities. Use proper aseptic techniques for the initiation and sub-culturing of plant materials.
- Data Management: Collect, record, and report data accurately. Maintain traceability by capturing procedural data on relevant systems.
- Compliance: Ensure visible compliance with HCM policies, procedures, and Occupational Health and Safety regulations.
- Training & Teamwork: Assist in training junior staff and contribute to team efforts by meeting deadlines and performance targets.
- Facility Maintenance: Keep the laboratory and its equipment clean and organized. Assist with preparations for Genebank facility visitors and exhibitions.
- Reporting: Compile and submit weekly work reports to the line manager. Complete Performance & Development Agreements (PDAs) and Evaluations (PDEs) with managerial assistance.
Requirements:
- Education & Experience: Matric with a minimum of three years’ experience, or Grade 10 with 10 years’ experience. Experience in plant tissue culture or any laboratory setting is advantageous.
- Technical Skills: Knowledge of laboratory operations, quarantine, and nursery sanitation requirements. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel, Word, and PowerPoint is an advantage.
- Communication & Teamwork: Good written and oral communication skills. Ability to work independently, as part of a team, and be proactive.
- Personal Attributes: Reliable, self-motivated, hard worker with a willingness to learn and accept constructive feedback.
- Other Requirements: A valid driver’s license (Code B) is required.
Additional Information:
- Employment Equity: Preference will be given to designated groups according to the ARC Employment Equity Plan.
- Security Clearance: Appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance.
- Application Process: Submit a cover letter, detailed CV, certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, and a copy of your driver’s license. Non-RSA citizens must attach certified copies of work permits and qualifications, along with an SAQA evaluation report for foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Enquiries: For more information, contact Ms. Olwethu Madzikane at (012) 808 8000.
Applicants who do not receive a response within four weeks of the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful. The company reserves the right not to appoint.
Apply By: 12 September 2024
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