Laboratory Specialist

Laboratory Specialist (P ) Readvertisement North-West University / Noordwes-Universiteit – Potchefstroom Campus, Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Department of Human Metabolomics. Position Number: P Position: Laboratory Specialist Grade: P8 Employment Type: Permanent Appointment Introduction Application to this position has already been received; applicants need not reapply. The Laboratory Specialist will ensure the highest standards of operational excellence and technical reliability across the research unit. Position Summary Industry: Education & Training Job Category: University and Academy Location: Potchefstroom Contract: Permanent Remuneration: Market Related Unit: Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences – Department of Human Metabolomics Job Description The Laboratory Specialist is responsible for ensuring the highest standards of operational excellence and technical reliability across the research unit. This role is central to maintaining uninterrupted functionality across the full spectrum of laboratory infrastructure, including critical support and monitoring systems. The Specialist improves maintenance of expensive analytical equipment, enhances post‑graduate flow‑through, and increases publication outputs. They implement robust quality control measures and play a key role in upholding integrity of research outputs and high‑impact research. The Specialist will also provide post‑graduate training and support on GC, NMR, EPR and LC equipment. Key Responsibilities Operational activities: pre‑analytical and analytical processing of research samples and equipment maintenance. Lead infrastructure upgrades and manage installation and integration processes to enhance operational capacity. Execute routine servicing of laboratory equipment to ensure optimal performance and minimise downtime. Research and innovation: assist with method development and improvement of analytical capabilities. Teaching and learning: student training. Laboratory administration: effective inventory management and strong relationships with application specialists and representatives to maximise technical support. Quality control: adhere to ISO 17025 / Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards where applicable. Ad hoc tasks: as directed by the Director. Occupational health and safety: foster a safety‑focused culture by encouraging proactive risk identification, reporting and shared accountability. Minimum Requirements Masters’ degree (NQF level 9) in Biochemistry or Analytical Chemistry. Minimum of 5 years’ experience in basic laboratory skills and management; gas‑ and liquid‑chromatography mass spectrometry (GC‑MS and LC‑MS); nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR); and Electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR). Recommendations / Added Advantages Membership with professional bodies such as South African Association for Mass Spectrometry (SAAMS), Chromatography Society of South Africa (ChromSA) or Metabolomics South Africa (MSA). Key Functional / Technical Competencies Advanced knowledge of GC‑MS – application, maintenance, method development, validation and quality control. Advanced knowledge of LC‑MS – application, maintenance, method development, validation and quality control. Advanced knowledge of NMR – application, maintenance, method development, validation and quality control. Advanced knowledge of EPR – application, maintenance, method development, validation and quality control. Excellent computer skills with proficiency in mass spectrometry and NMR data processing. Strong understanding of safety regulations, risk assessments and emergency protocols. Record keeping of equipment booking, usage logs and quality documentation. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills. Language proficiency in a multilingual environment. Ability to train staff and students, fostering skill development and adherence to regulatory standards. Behavioural Competencies Ability to work independently and in a team. Ability to function under pressure. Natural innovator who strives for best practice and technical advancement. Remuneration Annually, commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with NWU policy guidelines. Application and Enquiries Closing date: 10 December 2025 Planned commencement of duties: As soon as possible Enquiries regarding job content: Prof Roan Louw, Tel Enquiries regarding recruitment process: Mr Zenyo Seboko, Tel Applications must be submitted online through the official NWU vacancy website. Equal Employment Opportunity The University subscribes to the principles of the Employment Equity Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the EE Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date, please accept that your application was unsuccessful. Seniorities and Additional Details Seniority level: Mid‑Senior level Employment type: Full‑time Job function: Research, Analyst and Information Technology Industry: Higher Education #J-18808-Ljbffr