Specialist: Analyst Scientist (Life Sciences) – Department of Physics (LMM) – Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Science

Faculty: Natural and Agricultural Sc

Department: Lab for Microscopy and Micro A

FACULTY OF NATURAL AND AGRICULTURAL SCIENCES

DEPARTMENT OF PHYSICS (LABORATORY FOR MICROSCOPY AND MICROANALYSIS)

SPECIALIST: ANALYST SCIENTIST (LIFE SCIENCES)

PEROMNES POST LEVEL 06

In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy.

The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The incumbent will be responsible for:

• Operating and maintaining electron-, light- and confocal laser scanning microscopes and ancillary and related equipment;
• Biological sampling preparation for light-, confocal laser-, transmission electron- and scanning electron microscopy, such as resin-embedding, sectioning (Microtome) & staining; 
• Developing new methods applicable to extraordinary samples;
• User training on microscope operation, specimen preparation and related techniques;
• Maintaining a multidisciplinary environment for research and for the training of graduate students, and to provide cross-disciplinary expertise for under- and post graduate teaching at all project levels;
• Contributing to national leading research in microscopy encompassing all forms of microscopy and related techniques;
• Developing and executing strategies for the growth of the microscope facility in support to the University of Pretoria and potential users from industry and other parastatals;
• Providing and developing world class courses in microscopy and related techniques with the help of international speakers and specialists;
• Providing undergraduate and post-graduate training in microscopy (project planning for users).

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• Relevant Bachelors/BTech degree with at least five (5) years’ experience;
• Proven experience in the following:
  • Operation and maintenance of electron-, light- and confocal laser scanning microscopes, ancillary and related equipment;
  • Preparation of Biological samples.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):

• Appropriate language and communication skills, both written and verbal;
• Scientific credibility;
• The candidate should be self-motivated with a strong desire to further develop biological electron microscopy techniques; 
• Proven ability to work both independently and as part of a team, on a variety of research topics;
• Demonstrated ability to use initiative in solving technical and research problems.

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:

• An appropriate postgraduate qualification;
• Proven experience in the following:
  • Atomic Force Microscopy;
  • Preparation of material science samples;
  • Sample selection techniques;
  • Quality assurance;
  • Image processing and image manipulation;
  • Collaboration in research projects.

PLEASE NOTE: All shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.

The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the incumbent’s level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines. UP subscribes to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid schemes and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium.

Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za, and follow the link: Careers@UP.

In applying for this post, please attach:

• A comprehensive CV;
• Certified copies of qualifications;
• Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.

CLOSING DATE: 8 July 2026

No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.

ENQUIRIES:

Ms M Huma, Tel: (012) 420 5760 Email: [email protected] for application-related enquiries, and Mr C Snyman, Tel: (012) 420 2075 Email: [email protected] or Prof L Leeuw, Tel: (012) 420 2455 Email: [email protected] for enquiries relating to the post content.

Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 31 August 2026, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.

The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity.

In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to candidates from under-represented designated groups.

All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply. All candidates agree to undergo verification of personal credentials.

By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent to undergo verification of personal credentials and related information including, but not limited to, qualifications, criminal record, credit record, current and historic disciplinary proceedings as part of the selection process.

The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised positions.