Senior Research Technologist

About the role

The Biomedical Research and Innovation Platform (BRIP) at the South African Medical Research Council is hiring a Senior Research Technologist to provide advanced technical and laboratory support to the Centre for Advanced Training and Innovative Research (CATIR) in Pretoria. The role involves coordinating specialised research and training laboratories, contributing to capacity development and ensuring compliance with Good Laboratory Practice and biosafety standards.

Key responsibilities

• Provide advanced technical support in molecular biology, mammalian cell culture, genomics, protein and gene expression.
• Coordinate CATIR laboratory operations, including workflow optimisation, SOP development, equipment management, procurement and inventory control.
• Maintain laboratory quality and compliance systems in line with GLP, biosafety and SAMRC policies.
• Plan, deliver and evaluate specialised training programmes covering theoretical and practical aspects of molecular techniques.
• Contribute to scientific reporting, knowledge dissemination and programme development.

Required profile

• BSc degree in Microbiology, Biochemistry or a related field.
• Minimum three years’ hands‑on experience with mammalian cell culture, PCR, Western blotting and ELISA.
• At least two years of experience delivering laboratory‑based training or short courses.
• Experience in a biotechnology, pharmaceutical or diagnostics environment, preferably with CAR‑T, gene or cell therapy technologies.
• Strong organisational, communication and interpersonal abilities.

Required skills

• Molecular biology techniques
• Mammalian cell culture
• Polymerase chain reaction (PCR)
• Western blotting
• ELISA
• Biopharmaceutical manufacturing knowledge
• CAR‑T, gene therapy and cell therapy technologies
• Data and statistical analysis
• SCM procedures or JDE software