SUMMARY:
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POSITION INFO:
A leading, award-winning global research organisation based at the Nelson Mandela School of Medicine in Durban is seeking to appoint a Junior Scientist to join its high-impact biomedical research team.
With multiple clinical research sites across KwaZulu-Natal, the organisation conducts globally relevant and locally responsive studies in HIV, Tuberculosis (TB), and COVID-19, contributing to advancements in vaccine development, pathogenesis, prevention, and treatment.
Position Summary
This role is ideal for a scientist with strong expertise in flow cytometry and cell sorting. The successful candidate will contribute to innovative clinical trial-linked immunology research, gain exposure to advanced methodologies, and receive structured mentorship to support a career in independent research.
Minimum Requirements
- Master’s or PhD in Biomedical Sciences (completed within the last 2 years).
- Demonstrated expertise in:
- Flow cytometry (e.g., multicolour/spectral panel design, sample staining, and data acquisition).
- Cell sorting (bulk and single-cell applications).
- Proficiency in using relevant instruments and software, suc as:
- BD FACSCanto, FACSAria, FlowJo.
- Experience in mucosal immunology or microbiome research.
- Proven record of at least one peer-reviewed scientific publication.
- Advantageous:
- Experience with microscopy (confocal, epifluorescence, live imaging).
- Skills in image analysis
Key Competencies
- Exceptional attention to detail and analytical skills.
- Ability to manage and prioritise multiple projects effectively.
- Adaptable and calm under pressure in a fast-paced research environment.
- Capable of both independent work and team collaboration across institutions.
- Strong verbal and written communication skills.
Key Responsibilities
- Lead and implement cytometry-based projects, from sample preparation to data acquisition and high-purity cell sorting.
- Integrate cytometry workflows with downstream applications, such as:
- Transcriptomics
- Single-cell RNA sequencing
- Functional assays
- Contribute to microscopy-based imaging projects, as needed.
- Develop and maintain Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), ensuring quality assurance and control in laboratory workflows.
- Analyse and interpret experimental data; prepare and submit manuscripts to peer-reviewed journals.
- Support grant proposals, scientific reporting, and strategic research initiatives.
