Dalrrd Research Assistant Roots, Tubers And Bulbs (Three (3) Years Fixed Term Contract) (Roodeplaat) at Agricultural Research Council

Description

• Contribute to research by rendering desired support to research personnel to ensure successful completion of research projects in compliance with set standards.
• Knowledge of propagation, evaluation and maintenance of plants.
• Preparation of growth media and consumables according to protocol for tissue culture and glasshouse trials.
• Assist in optimizing research and administrative processes in the lab.
• Accurate, and timeous completion of set tasks in line with overall corporate strategy of the ARC.
• Maintain equipment in such a manner that optimal life span is ensured.
• Utilise material and equipment in a cost-effective manner.
• Adheres to quality standards.
• Collects, records data and provides verbal and written feedback on work activities to supervisor.
• Ensure that own and team deadlines are met.
• Assist training of junior staff.
• Visible compliance with HCM policies and procedures.
• Visible compliance with Occupational Health and safety regulations/ procedures.
• Use of proper aseptic techniques for initiation and sub culturing of plant materials.
• Perform correct labelling, culturing and tracking of plant materials and conduct checks to limit errors.
• Pay attention to detail and be precise with repetitive work in order to limit/prevent occurrence of errors in Genebank processes.
• Keep accurate records of daily operations to ensure traceability.
• Capturing of procedural data on a relevant system in line with quality assurance measures.
• Compile and submit weekly work reports to line manager.
• General cleaning of all areas in the In Vitro Genebank (i.e. dusting, sweeping, mopping, polishing, cleaning windows and walls).
• Ensure that relevant laboratory glassware and equipment is cleaned, maintained, and stored correctly.
• Assist in preparation for visitors of the Genebank facility and for exhibitions (when applicable).
• Completion of Performance & Development Agreements (PDAs) and Evaluations (PDEs) with the assistance of line manager.
• Ensure performance targets are achieved.

Requirements

• Matric with a minimum of three-year’s experience or Grade 10 with 10 years’ experience.
• Experience in plant tissue culture of plant tissue culture lab or any other lab will be advantageous.
• Knowledge of laboratory operations and equipment.
• Knowledge of laboratory, quarantine and nursery sanitation requirements.
• Writing, reading skills and the ability to accurately record and label samples.
• Ability to work independently, in a team, being pro-active and use of initiative.
• Good written and oral communication skills including ability to work with other members of the same team.
• Willing to learn and improve, and to accept feedback and criticism towards the greater good.
• Reliable, self-motivated and a hard worker.
• Knowledge of computer programs (Excel, Word, and PowerPoint) would be an advantage.
• Driver's license code B.