Research Assistant (x2 - 6 Months Contract - Wits DIH)

SUMMARY:
Background:

• The Wits Diagnostic Innovation Hub (DIH) is a division of Wits Health Consortium
• Wits Health Consortium (Pty) Limited ("WHC") is a wholly-owned Company of the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg (South Africa) under its Faculty of Health Sciences
• WHC provides Faculty with a legal framework within which to operate the research and other activities necessary to support its academic objectives. In addition, WHC offers a range of products and services to Academics

POSITION INFO:
Division:  Wits Diagnostic and Innovation Hub
 
Main purpose of the job:

• To ensure that all relevant specimens (with relevant associated information) are retrieved, packaged and shipped to Wits DIH for testing

• Parktown, Johannesburg

• Identify and retrieve relevant specimens
• Label specimens
• Prepare specimens and documentation for shipping
• Liaise with Lab staff and management
• Maintain accurate data records and safeguard the confidentiality of specimens
• Collect and capture data into an electronic database (or statistical analysis software and/or spreadsheet application for subsequent analysis) as per study requirements
• Perform regular back-ups to ensure data preservation and retrieve data from the database or electronic files as requested
• Assist with study monitoring and preliminary analysis of data
• Assist in the preparation of progress reports for the Principal Investigator, senior researchers, and funder
• Perform other duties as required

• Bachelor of Science in Microbiology or equivalent

• HPCSA registration would be advantageous

• Minimum of two (2) years’ professional experience working in the health sector or conducting health-related research in a laboratory environment

• Must have sound understanding of SA Public Health System, low-resource settings and academic research (human research study design and statistical analysis)
• Ability to liaise and work effectively with a multi-disciplinary team
• Competent in using Excel, REDCap, data analysis software or aptitude/willingness to learn
• Good Clinical Practice (GCP)and International Air Transport Association (IATA) training would be advantageous
• Ability to work under pressure, multitask, and adhere to deadlines
• Must have good communication skills

• Only if you meet the minimum job requirements and experience as mentioned above, you may submit a detailed updated CV
• Please Apply Online and complete your registration via our website to enable and protect you as a candidate, and to accept the new POPIA terms and conditions
• This will then create your permanent profile with which you can apply for all jobs as advertised by AJ PERSONNEL
• However, you may remove your profile from AJ PERSONNEL when you are no longer in the job market
• Please take note that the applicants who do not adhere to the above criteria will not be considered for the respective position
• Wits Health Consortium will only respond to shortlisted candidates
• Candidates who have not been contacted within two weeks of the closing date can consider their applications to be unsuccessful
• Closing date: 16 April 2026
• Note: No CV will be accepted after the closing date

• WHC, in accordance with its Employment Equity goals and plan, will give preference to suitable applicants from designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and subsequent amendments thereto
• AJ Personnel is only responsible for advertising and the response handling on behalf of their client Wits Health Consortium
• AJ Personnel does not have any salary or other information regarding the position