Job Opportunity: Senior Researcher: BTP Core-Facility (Onderstepoort) at Agricultural Research Council

Reference Number: ARC – BTP11/06
Location: Onderstepoort, South Africa
Job Type: Permanent
Work Level: Middle Management
Salary: Market Related
Closing Date for Applications: 12 November 2024
Enquiries: Dr. Dirk Swanevelder, Tel: (012) 529 9472

Job Description

The Senior Researcher will manage the Core facility at the Biotechnology Platform (BTP), focusing on developing, establishing, and managing genomics- and bioinformatics-based products to support research. Key responsibilities include:

• Managing the Core facility, ensuring quality, efficiency, and cost-effectiveness in all operations.
• Coordinating analytical and support services within the BTP Core Facility.
• Overseeing planning and reporting of activities within the facility.
• Engaging with stakeholders to promote the activities of the BTP Core Facility.
• Coordinating client workflows to ensure short turnaround times and efficient data dissemination, including client invoicing.
• Implementing and managing Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS) and automating workflows for all products.
• Contributing to capacity building through postgraduate student supervision and training within the facility.
• Developing and implementing Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) within the Core Facility environment.
• Collaborating with research teams across the ARC to ensure the broad application of genomic tools in agricultural research and development programs.
• Raising funds to ensure the optimal functioning of the Biotechnology Platform Core Facility, keeping it at the cutting edge of available technologies.

Requirements

• PhD in genomics and/or bioinformatics.
• Knowledge of genomics and their application in agriculture and other scientific sectors.
• Proven ability to manage a Core facility team, ensuring timely delivery, maintaining quality, and continuously improving services.
• Experience and a strong track record in agricultural research and development service provision.
• A demonstrated history of publications in research and development journals and recognition within the research community.
• Appropriate experience in project management and fundraising.
• Ability to work in a core facility or analytical laboratory environment.
• Strong interpersonal skills for client interaction in a collaborative and consultative role.
• Knowledge and experience with laboratory information management systems.