The National Research Foundation (NRF) supports and promotes research and human capital development through funding, the provision of National Research Facilities and science outreach platforms and programmes to the broader community in all fields of science and technology, including natural sciences, engineering, social sciences and humanities.

The South African Institute for Aquatic Biodiversity (SAIAB), based in Grahamstown, is a National Research Facility of the NationalResearch Foundation. SAIAB is world-renowned centre for the study of African aquatic biodiversity.

Purpose: The primary focus of the position is to manage the Aquatic Genomics Research Platform and operate associated instrumentation. Individually led research is encouraged but will not be more than 30% of the post. Promote strategic direction and facilitate the use of the Aquatic Genomics Research Platform as a National research platform, and to co-ordinate its use as teaching platform. Ensure that the laboratory, services offered and research conducted remain relevant with regard to technological advances in the field of genomics.

Key Responsibilities:

* Manage the Aquatic Genomics Research Platform and operate associated instrumentation.

* Promote strategic direction and facilitate the use of the Aquatic Genomics Research Platform as a National research platform.

* Co-ordinate the Aquatic Genomics Research Platform as a teaching platform.

* Ensure that the laboratory, services offered and research conducted remain relevant with regards to technological advances in the field of genomics.

Key Requirements:

Qualification:

• PhD degree in Genetics/Genomics/Microbiology or related field
• Established Researcher in the aquatics genomics field
• Minimum of 5 years??genomics/genetics laboratory management experience
• Supervisory experience at the MSc and PhD level (minimum 2 graduated students)

Experience:

Technical Skills

• Ability to operate general molecular laboratory equipment (centrifuges, vortexes, gel electrophoresis apparatus, gel doc systems, PCR machines, incubators) and troubleshoot issues as they arise
• Practical experience with DNA extractions, PCR, library preparation for next-generation sequencing
• Experience using molecular analysis software such as Geneious, DNAStar Lasergene and GeneMapper for sequence analysis, trimming and contig generation as well as analysis of microsatellite data
• Experience with programs to analyse next-generation sequencing data (SPADES; MG-RAST; BLAST)

Specific Instrument experience

• Proven experience operating a Sanger Sequencer and the processing of samples for Sanger sequencing and fragment analysis
• Proven experience operating an Illumina MiSeqResearch

Research

• Proven track record of research in aquatic genomics
• Published a minimum of 5 papers in genomics with an emphasis on aquatic genomics

Training

• Train students in general molecular laboratory techniques and protocols they are unfamiliar with' 

SCM & finances

• Familiarity with suppliers of molecular consumables, reagents and laboratory equipment
• Experience with market research, demand considerations and procurement plans
• Experience with obtaining quotes and process orders and invoices for the above
• Experience setting up supply/service contracts for the above as well as contract reviews
• Ability to undertake a yearly asset stock-take

General skills:

• Effective Communicator: Excellent communication skills (verbal and written - especially report writing skills)
• Excellent organisational and interpersonal skills
• An ability to work effectively in a collaborative environment is essential.

Knowledge:

• Knowledge in Aquatic Genomics and Genetics

Additional Notes:

Desirable additional education and work experience

• Knowledge of biomaterial banking

Additional Application Information:

The full job description can be found on the SAIAB website (www.saiab.ac.za)

Information:

The website www.nrf.ac.za provides more details on the NRF initiatives and activities.

Applications:

Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by logging to https://ess.nrf.ac.za/Account/Recruitment and apply online. Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicant's suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.

Closing Date: 11 March 2022

The NRF offers a challenging career and competitive remuneration package which is commensurate with qualifications and experience.

The NRF is committed to employment equity and redress and the appointment to the position will be made in line with the NRF Employment Equity Plan.

The NRF reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Correspondence will be sent to short-listed candidates only