Wits Health Consortium (Pty) Ltd is a wholly owned

subsidiary of the University of the Witwatersrand.

VACANCY
Job title: Research Assistant (12 months)

Type: Permanent ☐ Fixed Term ☒ Temporary ☐

To conduct research into the genetic causes of developmental disorders in

African patients together with the project team. Duties will include research
Main purpose of the job: implementation; DNA extractions and -normalisation; data generation and
management; analysis and assisting in writing publications; and compilation of
relevant reports.
Location: Division of Human Genetics, Braamfontein

Closing date: 20 January 2021

Submit detailed CV to: nboomgaard@witshealth.co.za

Advert reference: Research Assistant- Human Genetics

In accordance with our Employment Equity goals and plan, preference will be given to suitable applicants
from designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and subsequent amendments
thereto.

Key performance areas

• Conduct literature review to determine what research has been done and what the gaps in knowledge are
• Carry out required research activities, as identified by the Research Team
• Assist with applications for obtaining ethical approval from relevant regulatory committees / bodies
• Assist with writing research protocols and the development of SOPs
• Engage community stakeholders regarding research studies, as and when required
• Collaborate closely with the Research Team on related studies within the unit re study design, protocol,
research tools and other research related activities
• Assist with the cataloguing of research samples
• Assist with management and servicing of laboratory equipment
• Assist with obtaining quotations and receipting of goods and services
• Follow SOPs and protocols for data generation and analysis
• Monitor and follow data generation and collection procedures
• Assist with monitoring and updating databases for capturing of research data collected
• Perform data clean up as and when required
• Assist with the writing up of results for distribution/publication
• Compile relevant reports and research findings to address questions that transpired from meetings,
management or funders requests
• Comply with all NIH (Funder) requirements including timesheets
• Assist with ad hoc research duties

The Wits Health Consortium will only respond to shortlisted candidates. Candidates who have not been contacted within two weeks of the
closing date can consider their applications unsuccessful.
 Wits Health Consortium (Pty) Ltd is a wholly owned
subsidiary of the University of the Witwatersrand.

Required minimum education and training

A BSc Honours degree in a relevant discipline (e.g. molecular biology, genetics, biochemistry) - an MSc degree
will be advantageous. Training in molecular laboratory techniques.

Desirable additional education, work experience and personal abilities

Interest in human genetics research related to developmental disorders
Ordered, systematic and analytical in approach to research
Good administrative skills with working knowledge of Microsoft Office and management of large data sets
Able to work under pressure, adhere to deadlines and follow through on assigned tasks
Self-motivated, able to work independently
Work as part of a multi-disciplinary team to ensure project delivery, and to advance the general aims and
objectives of the unit
Experience in writing publications would be advantageous
Local and international travel might be required from time to time
May be required to work at the various project sites around South Africa and in Africa
Able to adapt to changing and demanding work environments Overtime will be required from time to time
Maintain effective working relationships with other staff at all levels
Willing to travel
Driver’s license and own transport

Required minimum work experience

1-year work experience in a research or laboratory environment. Experience with generation and analysis of
human genetic data is highly advantageous.

Should you be interested in applying for this vacancy, please send an email to
nboomgaard@witshealth.co.za. The subject heading of the email must read Research Assistant- Human
Genetics. Please include the following documentation:
• A cover letter (maximum one page) that clearly states which vacancy you are applying for
• A detailed CV

The Wits Health Consortium will only respond to shortlisted candidates. Candidates who have not been contacted within two weeks of the
closing date can consider their applications unsuccessful.