Laboratory Assistant at Wits Health Consortium
Laboratory Assistant at Wits Health Consortium
Job title: Laboratory Assistant (6 Months Fixed Term Contract)
Type: Permanent ☐ Fixed Term ☒ Temporary ☐
Main purpose of the job:
To support the implementation of clinical research studies through the accurate processing, storage, tracking, and shipment of biological specimens in accordance with study protocols, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and laboratory quality standards.
Location: SYNPASE Research Clinici, Edendale Lay Ecumencial Center Clinic, Edendale, Pietermaritzburg.
Closing date: 13 March 2026
Submit detailed CV to: Mamosa Phashe at vacancies15@witshealth.co.za
Advert reference number: MP – 041 – Laboratory Assistant
In accordance with our Employment Equity goals and plan, preference will be given to suitable applicants
from designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and subsequent amendments thereto.
Key performance areas
- Specimen Processing and Handling
- Process biological specimens according to study protocols and laboratory SOPs.
- Perform centrifugation, aliquoting, labelling, and packaging accurately and within required timelines.
- Ensure correct sample identification and prevent cross-contamination.
- Specimen Storage and Inventory Management
- Maintain appropriate storage conditions (e.g., refrigerators, freezers, liquid nitrogen if applicable).
- Monitor and record temperatures daily and escalate deviations promptly.
- Maintain accurate specimen inventory and storage logs.
- Sample Tracking and Documentation
- Maintain accurate chain-of-custody documentation.
- Ensure all specimens are logged, labelled, and tracked in study-specific databases or tracking
systems. - Reconcile sample logs with source documents and laboratory records.
- Shipment Coordination
- Prepare and package biological specimens for shipment in accordance with protocol, IATA
guidelines, and sponsor requirements. - Coordinate courier collection and maintain shipment documentation.
- Ensure timely dispatch and confirmation of receipt.
- Quality Compliance and Laboratory Support
- Adhere to Good Clinical Practice (GCP), SOPs, and study-specific procedures.
- Support internal and external monitoring visits and audits.
- Maintain cleanliness, organisation, and readiness of the laboratory environment.
- Communication and Team Collaboration
- Communicate proactively with study coordinators and clinicians regarding specimen issues.
- Report deviations, equipment malfunctions, or discrepancies immediately.
- Participate in team meetings and required training.
Required minimum education and training
Minimum: Matric with appropriate experience, training or qualifications
Fluent in English and isiZulu preferred
Required minimum work experience
- 2-4 years’ experience in an a clinical trial setting
- 1-2 years’ experience in a research laboratory environment
Desirable additional education, work experience and personal abilities
- Proficient in a range of laboratory processing procedures.
- Familiarity with lab equipment calibration, maintenance, and troubleshooting.
- Understanding of quality control, assurance processes, and temperature controlled storage of
specimens. - Experience with stock management.
- Good communication skills – for working with clinical staff, patients, and research coordinators
Should you be interested in applying for this vacancy, please send an email to: vacancies15@witshealth.co.za. The subject heading of the email must read MP – 041 – Laboratory Assistant and the job title of position applying for. Please include the following documentation:
- A cover letter (maximum one page) that clearly states which vacancy you are applying for
- A detailed CV
