Laboratory Assistant Internships At TUT

Are you a recent graduate in Life Sciences and passionate about laboratory research? The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) is offering a fantastic opportunity for Life Science graduates to join the Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences at the Arcadia Campus in Pretoria. This article delves into the details of the exciting Laboratory Assistant Internships currently open for applications, which will provide you with hands-on experience in a laboratory research environment.

Laboratory Assistant Internships Overview

• Position Title: Laboratory Assistant Internships
• Contract Duration: 12 months
• Full-Time: 40 hours per week
• Location: Arcadia Campus, Tshwane University of Technology (TUT), Pretoria
• Department: Department of Pharmaceutical Sciences
• Research Unit: SAMRC Unit and SARChI in Phytomedicine
• Reference Number: Ref: 25/48

Key Responsibilities

The successful candidates will assist with a variety of laboratory functions, making this internship ideal for graduates who are eager to learn and grow in a research-driven environment. Some of the key responsibilities include:

1. Assisting Postgraduate Students and Research Staff:
   • You will provide valuable support to postgraduate students, technical staff, and researchers by helping them with specific experimental techniques and equipment use.
2. Laboratory Stock Management:
   • Ensure that laboratory reagents, consumables, and equipment are well-stocked and readily available for experiments. This involves managing the inventory of chemicals and other lab supplies.
3. Technical Support:
   • If there are any technical issues such as electrical, plumbing, or computer problems, you will need to report them and follow up with the Technical Service Department.
4. Purchasing Orders:
   • You will be responsible for initiating purchase orders, ensuring compliance with the research group’s ordering procedures.
5. Lab Safety and Compliance:
   • Maintain general safety standards within the laboratory, which includes tidying work areas, proper disposal of chemicals, biohazardous materials, and ensuring compliance with health and safety regulations.
6. Plant Material and Specimen Storage:
   • You will be responsible for storing plant materials and voucher specimens properly and keeping accurate and updated records/logs.
7. Equipment Monitoring and Maintenance:
   • Regularly check the laboratory equipment to ensure it is working efficiently and schedule maintenance when needed.
8. Additional Duties:
   • You may be asked to perform other duties as required by the Research Chair or Senior Analysts, depending on the lab’s needs.

Minimum Requirements

To apply for this internship, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• Educational Qualifications:
  • A Postgraduate Diploma or an Honours Degree (NQF level 8) in Life Science, Health Science, or a related field, such as Biochemistry, Chemistry, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, or similar areas.
  • A Master’s degree would be an added advantage.
• Experience:
  • At least 1 year of experience working in a laboratory setting.
  • Experience in chromatography, mass spectrometry, and extraction procedures will be an advantage, but not a requirement.

Skills Required

To excel in this role, you should possess certain skills and competencies, including:

• Computer Skills: Proficiency in using computers for data recording, logging, and communication is a must.
  
• Technical Competence: You should have a high level of technical ability and be able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously to meet the research needs.
• Lab Practices: Knowledge of laboratory safety, handling chemical substances, and adhering to health and safety regulations is crucial.
• Specialised Equipment Operation: You will be required to operate and maintain specialized laboratory equipment, for which training will be provided.
• Organisation and Communication Skills: The ability to work independently as well as part of a team is essential. You will also need excellent communication skills in both English (verbal and written) to communicate effectively with colleagues and students.

Recommended for you: From Personal Details to References: Building a Professional CV in 7 Easy Steps

How to Apply

Interested candidates who meet the above qualifications should submit the following documents by 25 July 2025 at 16:00:

1. A detailed CV
2. A completed application form for employment
3. Certified copies of your ID and academic qualifications

All applications should be sent to:

Ms. Chantelle Du Plooy
Email: DuPlooyC@tut.ac.za

For any inquiries, please contact Dr. Maxleene Sandasi at SandasiM@tut.ac.za.

Note:

• If you have not received a response within a month of the closing date, kindly consider your application unsuccessful.
• Only short-listed candidates will be contacted, and the University reserves the right not to make an appointment.
• Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by a SAQA evaluation report.
• All candidates will be required to undergo psychometric tests and other assessments as part of the selection process.

Also check: Simple Ways to Improve Your LinkedIn Profile

If you’re a recent Life Science graduate looking to gain valuable laboratory experience, the Laboratory Assistant Internships at TUT offer a unique opportunity to kick-start your career in scientific research. This internship provides not only practical experience but also a chance to contribute to ground-breaking research in phytomedicine. Ensure that you meet the application deadline of 25 July 2025 and follow the application instructions carefully. We wish you the best of luck in your application!