Senior Assistant Officer: Professional Services x1
Position Information
- Job Title: Senior Assistant Officer: Professional Services (Post Level 12)
- Job ID: 6515
- Institution: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Faculty: Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Department: Genetics
- Number of Positions: 1
- Employment Type: Contract
- Contract Duration: 6 Months
- Occupational Level: Semi-Skilled
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Bloemfontein, Free State
- Closing Date: 14 July 2026
- Starting Date: As soon as possible
- Salary: R257,274 – R330,903 per annum, depending on qualifications, experience, and available budget.
Job Purpose
The Senior Assistant Officer: Professional Services will support the scientific and research activities of the Fungal Frontiers Initiative UFS Research Chair. The successful candidate will coordinate research projects, assist postgraduate students, manage project reporting, engage with industry partners, and contribute to scientific research, innovation, and technology transfer within the Department of Genetics.
Key Responsibilities
Research Coordination
- Manage and coordinate scientific activities within the Fungal Frontiers Initiative UFS Research Chair programme.
- Support research involving mushroom cultivation, fungal genetics, genomics, secondary metabolite biosynthesis, and cell culturing.
- Maintain research databases and project documentation.
- Ensure research activities comply with biosafety, ethical, and regulatory requirements.
Research Support
- Assist with postgraduate student research projects.
- Coordinate project reporting to funding agencies and university leadership.
- Support the preparation of scientific publications, technical reports, and grant proposals.
- Assist in developing intellectual property, patents, and technology transfer opportunities.
Laboratory and Technical Support
- Assist in managing the Certificate of Analysis technical service.
- Support research involving medicinal mushrooms, chemical analysis, and cell culturing.
- Maintain accurate research records and laboratory documentation.
Stakeholder and Industry Engagement
- Facilitate collaboration with industry partners.
- Support fundraising initiatives for the Fungal Frontiers Initiative UFS Research Chair.
- Assist in developing new research initiatives aligned with the Chair’s strategic priorities.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- A Master’s Degree (NQF Level 9) in:
- Genetics
- Microbiology
- Biochemistry
- Pharmacology
- Or a closely related field.
- A minimum of one (1) year of relevant work experience.
Recommendations
Preference will be given to candidates with:
- A PhD (NQF Level 10) in Genetics, Microbiology, Biochemistry, Pharmacology, or a related field.
- At least two (2) years of relevant work experience or equivalent postdoctoral experience.
- Knowledge of:
- Medicinal mushrooms
- Chemical analytics
- Cell culturing
Required Competencies
Results Orientation
- Ability to achieve high standards and meet objectives.
- Reliable, responsible, and dependable work ethic.
Strategic Thinking
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously.
Business Acumen
- Ability to comply with policies and procedures.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Leadership
- High levels of motivation and initiative.
- Ability to lead research activities and contribute effectively to team objectives.
Building Relationships
- Strong communication and collaboration skills.
- Ability to work effectively with researchers, students, funding agencies, and industry partners.
- Ability to make informed decisions through consultation and teamwork.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- Copies of qualifications or official proof of qualifications.
- SAQA evaluation (for foreign qualifications, where applicable).
- Certified copy of a South African ID or passport.
- Confirmation of employment (for external applicants), such as:
- Appointment letter
- Employment contract
- Service certificate
- Recent payslip
Important Notes
- Applications must be submitted through the official UFS online recruitment portal.
- Incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- If you do not receive feedback within six weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
- The University reserves the right not to make an appointment.