Specialist Analytical Scientist (Microscopist) - Laboratory for Microscopy and Microanalysis

Laboratory for microscopy and microanalysis

Specialist analytical scientist (microscopist)

Peromnes post level 6

In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the following vacancy.

The University of Pretoria's commitment to quality makes us one of the top research universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.

Responsibilities:

The incumbent will be responsible for:

• Operating and maintaining electron- and light microscopes, confocal laser scanning and atomic force microscopes and ancillary and related equipment;
• Handling of specialised equipment such as ion beam milling, -etching and -polishing;
• Sample preparation with emphasis on material and metallurgical sciences;
• The development of new methods applicable to extraordinary samples, including the development of standard testing procedures for investigative techniques such as eds and ebsd;
• Developing cryo-related techniques for material sciences;
• Training of students and staff in the analysis of metallurgical and material science samples;
• Developing and presenting short courses in material and metallurgical sciences;
• Participating in project planning of final-year engineering students.

Minimum requirements:

• A bsc- or btech-degree in the physical or material sciences plus four years' experience in a dedicated microscopy laboratory; or
• Grade twelve plus 10 years' experience in a dedicated analytical microscopy laboratory;
• Proven experience in the following:
  • Operation and maintenance of electron-, light-, confocal laser and atomic force microscopes;
  • Operation and maintenance of ancillary and related equipment;
  • Image processing and image manipulation;
  • Sampling selection techniques;
  • Development of new methods applicable to extraordinary samples;
  • Preparation of material science samples;
  • Component and system failure analysis.

Required competencies (skills, knowledge and behavioural attributes):

• Scientific credibility;
• Financial skills;
• Appropriate language and communication skills, both written and verbal;
• Quality assurance;
• Proven  leadership, negotiation and management skills;
• Ability to work under pressure and handle a variety of tasks simultaneously;
• Accuracy and attention to detail;
• Interpersonal skills;
• Prioritisation and time management skills.

Added advantages and preferences:

• An appropriate postgraduate qualification;
• Collaboration in research projects.

Please note: all shortlisted candidates may be required to participate in relevant skills assessments as part of the selection process.

The total remuneration package for this position ranges from approximately r 660 186 to r 818 975 as determined by up policy guidelines. (these amounts include the university's contributions to standard up benefits, namely provident fund, group life and funeral cover, but exclude contributions to medical aid, as the latter varies per employee.) Up subscribes to the bestmed medical aid scheme and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium.

Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za, and follow the link: careers@up.

In applying for this post, please attach:

• A comprehensive cv;
• Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact.

Closing date: 17 september 2018

No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.

Enquiries: Mr AJ Botha, tel: (012) 420 2075

Should you not hear from the university of pretoria by 30 november 2018, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.