SENIOR SCIENTIFIC OFFICER: PHYSIOLOGY
(PC9)
Department of Human Biology
Faculty of Health Sciences
We invite applications for this permanent post, for appointment from 1st October. We are seeking a dynamic and
motivated individual to manage the Integrated Physiology Practical laboratory for the MBChB and BSc
undergraduate and BSc postgraduate programmes.
The Departmental of Human Biology comprises several divergent academic divisions one of which is in Human
Physiology and Neurosciences. Our Department offers an integrated programme comprising Human Anatomy, Cell
Biology and Physiology for the undergraduate courses, and, postgraduate programmes in General Physiology and
Neuroscience. The practical physiology laboratory plays an essential role in supporting the academic programme
and in providing an interactive learning experience for students.
Requirements

The candidate should have a minimum of a BSc Honours in Physiology (Physiological Sciences) or
equivalent degree.

The candidate should have a sound knowledge and experience in general physiology.

The candidate should be proficient in the use of computers (WORD, EXCEL, and Internet) and be prepared
to interact with teaching software and web based teaching platforms used at UCT.

Experience in the use of specialised software for physiology practicals (e.g. Power Lab, Lab Chart and
PhysioEx) and knowledge or experience in general electronics will be an advantage.

Applicants should have a keen interest in technology, an understanding of the underlying principles of the
technology and its application in physiology.

They should also have some experience in working with live animals in physiological experiments.

Excellent interpersonal skills

Ability to communicate effectively (verbally and in writing)

High level of organizational skills

Ability to problem solve and multi-task
Advantages

Applicants who hold an MSc degree in Physiological Sciences and/or who have experience or have done
course work in Anatomy and Histology would be favourably considered.

Experience and/or interest in neurophysiology would also be favourably considered.
Responsibilities

The day-day running of the practical laboratory sessions, setting up the practicals, liaising with the
academic teaching staff on the design of content and implementation of the practicals,

Demonstrating practicals, training demonstrators, and interaction with undergraduate and postgraduate
students, and managing the website for the individual courses in the integrated Human Anatomy &
Physiology programme.

Assistance with: marking practicals; managing the spreadsheets of practical /assignment marks; setting
up computer based quizzes.

Use of simulated physiology programmes (e.g. PowerLab, LabChart, PhysioEx)

Performing selected animal physiology experiments.

Assistance in training and laboratory supervision of postgraduate students in physiological techniques.

Participation in one or more research projects/groups in the Department of Human Biology.
The remuneration package, including benefits, is between R273 662 – R321 923 per annum.
To apply, e-mail the UCT Application form (download at http://web.uct.ac.za/depts/sapweb/forms/hr201.doc)
and all other relevant documentation as indicated on the form, with the subject line “Senior Scientific Officer:
Physiology” followed by the reference number to Ms Celeste Booysen at recruitment05@uct.ac.za
Address: Staff Recruitment and Selection, University of Cape Town, Rondebosch, 7700, South Africa.
An application which does not comply with the above requirements will be regarded as incomplete.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Telephone: +27 21 650 2220
Website: www.health.uct.ac.za
Reference number: SR084/14
Closing date: 11 August 2014
UCT is committed to the pursuit of excellence, diversity and redress. Our Employment Equity Policy is available at
http://www.uct.ac.za/downloads/uct.ac.za/about/policies/eepolicy.pdf.
UCT reserves the right not to appoint.
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