Laboratory Specialist

Laboratory Specialist (P ) Readvertisement NORTH-WEST UNIVERSITY (POTCHEFSTROOM CAMPUS) Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Department of Human Metabolomics. Position Number: P . Grade: P8 Permanent appointment. Note: Those who have previously applied need not reapply. Position Summary Industry: Education & Training Job Category: University and Academy Location: Potchefstroom Contract: Permanent Remuneration: Market Related 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 Laboratory Specialist ensures improved maintenance of expensive analytical equipment, leading to improved functionality, reduced maintenance cost, improved post‑graduate flow‑through, and increased publication outputs for the research entity. By implementing robust quality control measures, the role upholds the integrity of the research outputs and enables high‑impact, methodologically sound research. The Laboratory Specialist will also train and support postgraduate students on various analytical equipment (GC, NMR, EPR, LC). 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. Assist with method development and improvement of analytical capabilities. Provide student training. Manage efficient inventory and laboratory administration. Build and maintain strong relationships with application specialists and representatives to maximise technical support and drive innovation in laboratory practices. Adhere to ISO 17025 / Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) standards where applicable. Perform ad‑hoc tasks as directed by the Director. Foster a safety‑focused culture by encouraging proactive risk identification, reporting, and shared accountability within the lab team (GLP, OHS and ethical research practices). Minimum Requirements A Master’s degree (NQF level 9) in Biochemistry or Analytical Chemistry. Minimum five 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 gas chromatography‑mass spectrometry (GC‑MS): application, maintenance, method development, method validation, quality control. Advanced knowledge of liquid chromatography‑mass spectrometry (LC‑MS): application, maintenance, method development, method validation, quality control. Advanced knowledge of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR): application, maintenance, method development, method validation, quality control. Advanced knowledge of electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR): application, maintenance, method development, method validation, quality control. Excellent computer skills with proven competency in mass spectrometry (MS) and NMR data processing. Strong understanding of safety regulations, risk assessments and emergency protocols. Record keeping of equipment booking, usage logs, results and quality documentation. Strong analytical and problem‑solving skills. Language proficiency in a multi‑lingual environment. Ability to train staff and students, fostering skill development in lab techniques, safety practices 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 The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines. Enquiries Job content enquiries: Prof Roan Louw, Tel: Recruitment process enquiries: Mr Zenyo Seboko, Tel: Closing Date 21 November 2025 Planned Commencement of Duties As soon as possible Application Instructions Applications must be submitted online through the official NWU vacancy website. Incomplete applications and those submitted through any other platform will not be considered. Employment Equity The University subscribes to and applies 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 principles of 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 of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful. #J-18808-Ljbffr