Laboratory Assistant (fixed term for 6 months)

Laboratory Assistant (fixed term for 6 months)

River Bioscience (RB) has an exciting opportunity for a Laboratory Assistant to join the team for a 6-month period. The role will fall under the supervision of the Microbial Team Leader (MTL) in the RB Product Development and Innovation Department. Tasks and responsibilities will be to assist with project specific tasks assigned to the Microbial Research Team. This would involve assisting Researchers and Technicians with conducting detailed research trials and developing processes for biological quality control work. Other tasks may include generating product registration data for new microbial insecticides and validating existing registered products, as well as assisting with other PDI related research and Innovation work. This position is based in Port Elizabeth.

Key Responsibilities:

To assist Researchers and Technicians with conducting various research trials and quality control checks. This work will include:

1. Following protocols for making artificial diet, setting up assays, and placing of insect larvae for quality control testing.
2. Inoculating, sorting, harvesting and processing of raw microbial products.
3. Assist with conducting trials to generate relevant Shelf-life QC data on RB, virus products.
4. Screening microbial contaminants and physical chemical properties, such as testing of sample pH, for finished good products.
5. Cleaning and maintenance of the Microbial lab along with other PD&I members to ensure good lab hygiene and contamination mitigation.
6. Providing data summaries on results of all tests and trials to the MTL.
7. Collaboration and communication with the team on trial logistics, supplies and efficacy.

Education & Training:

BSc degree/BSc (hons) in Microbiology or a related scientific field (In-depth practical knowledge on Molecular biological experiments is an advantage), or a BSc/Hons degree in Entomology, but with Microbiology exposure. Experience working with in a laboratory setting with insects or other biological organisms is preferred.

Other knowledge and skill requirements:

• Microscope use.
• Report writing.
• Be neat and organized with excellent timekeeping/future-planning skills.
• Ability to work with microbial organism (fungi, viruses, bacteria).
• Ability to maintain GLP standards.
• Ability to work in a team.
• Capable of following a protocol/work instruction.
• Basic computer and data entry skills (Microsoft package).
• Valid driver’s licence.

Characteristics:

• Willing to work in an agile, start-up environment – be willing to grow with the Company.
• Detail orientated which drives informed, collective decision making.
• A high level of emotional intelligence.
• Effective communication skills.
• Willing to travel locally.
• Diligent work ethic.
• Ability to operate independently as well as in a team where collective decision-making is undertaken.

River Bioscience is an equal opportunity employer without regard to race, religion, colour, gender, gender identity, sexual orientation, age, national origin, disability, or any other status or condition protected by law.

Remuneration for position will be discussed with candidates who are invited for an interview.