Bioprocessing Internship at Technology Innovation Agency

The Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) invites ambitious and qualified graduates to apply for the Bioprocessing Internship opportunities based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal. This entry-level programme is tailored for emerging scientists looking to kick-start their professional careers within biotechnology, microbiology, and chemical research. Successful candidates will support hands-on research and development, operational initiatives, and key project management activities under the Bioprocessing Platform, gaining invaluable exposure in a premier public innovation entity.

Key Responsibilities

• Laboratory Operations: Operate, calibrate, and maintain sophisticated bioprocessing and laboratory equipment under professional supervision.

• Experimental Research: Collect, record, analyze, and interpret experimental data with high accuracy and scientific integrity.

• Quality Control & Compliance: Support strict adherence to Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) systems, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and quality management standards.

• Project Coordination: Assist with tracking project milestones, managing platform deliverables, and coordinating basic procurement for laboratory consumables.

• Scientific Reporting: Prepare structured scientific reports, documentation, and presentations summarizing laboratory findings for internal review and stakeholder engagement.

• Stakeholder Communication: Liaise effectively with internal research scientists, technical experts, and project mentors to ensure smooth workflow execution.

Why Join the Company

Working at the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) places you at the forefront of South Africa's national technological advancement. As an initiative under the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI), TIA provides a vibrant, talent-driven environment focused on socio-economic impact. Interns gain direct mentorship from seasoned scientists, develop specialized technical competencies, and build a solid foundation for careers in scientific research, biotechnology commercialization, and public sector innovation.

Application Strategy (Exclusive)

• Highlight Lab Techniques: Emphasize specific bioprocessing, microbiology, or biochemistry wet-lab techniques and instrumentation (e.g., fermentation, spectrophotometry, chromatography, sterile techniques) in your CV.

• Demonstrate Quality Awareness: Explicitly mention coursework or experience related to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP), Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and laboratory safety protocols.

• Showcase Data Proficiency: Detail any academic research projects, mini-theses, or practical data analysis tools (such as Excel, R, or statistical packages) that prove your analytical rigor.

Interview Preparation

Candidates shortlisted for this position should prepare to answer the following technical and behavioural questions:

• "Can you describe a challenging laboratory experiment you conducted, the standard operating procedures you followed, and how you ensured data integrity?"

• "How do you prioritize Safety, Health, and Environment (SHE) compliance when operating delicate laboratory equipment under strict project deadlines?"

Sharpen your interview readiness and refine your responses by practicing on the Xhosadev Interview Simulator.

How to Apply

To submit your application for the Bioprocessing Internship programme, ensure your profile and credentials are submitted before the closing deadline.

Reference: TIA260928-2

Please apply using the Quick Apply button on this page.

Salary is estimated based on market research.

• Minimum of a BSc in Biochemistry, Microbiology, Chemistry or Bachelor of Applied Science in Biotechnology / Chemistry.

• A BSc Honours or MSc in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, or Chemistry is advantageous and preferred.

• 0 to 2 years of relevant academic or entry-level working experience.

• Sound foundational understanding of laboratory safety standards, quality management, and standard operating procedures (SOPs).

• Strong analytical, scientific report writing, and technical documentation abilities.

• Effective communication and interpersonal skills to collaborate within a multidisciplinary team.

• South African citizenship with alignment to national Employment Equity principles.