Internal Advert: Administrator RUBIC

Internal Advert: Administrator (Grade 8)

Rhodes University Biotechnology Innovation Centre (RUBIC)

The Rhodes University Biotechnology Innovation Centre invites suitably qualified candidates to join their team. 

Main Objectives

To coordinate and support the administrative and financial administration aspects associated with the Biotechnology Innovation Centre. It is to provide effective and efficient laboratory, science communication, administrative control, and reporting for the RUBIC research groups and the Director of RUBIC per the University’s policies and procedures. In addition, the incumbent is required to provide financial administration and support services related to EBRU. Procure, place orders and monitor receipt of laboratory goods. Provide efficient and effective support to all staff members, researchers, postdocs and postgraduate students.

The SARChi Chair is the director of RUBIC and is responsible for large sums of money that must be effectively administered and managed. Many of the duties in this job profile now include duties previously carried out by an administrative assistant to the SARChi Chair, who is now involved in other aspects related to the Chair.

The Requirements

Grade 12 (Matric) plus approximately 2 years’ relevant experience, where such experience includes: -

• Previous administrative skills within an electronic environment, preferably within a University/laboratory/industry context;
• At least 1 year of previous financial administration experience, including the ability to compile budgets and reconcile accounts.

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The following documents are required and must be uploaded under the Additional Documents section of the online application form:

• A strong and succinct motivation letter outlining your interest in the post and your suitability for the position. Your motivation must address each job requirement individually, clearly articulate your relevant experience, and demonstrate how you meet each requirement.
• A comprehensive CV which should include the following: -
  • Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
  • Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information, which should be at least their contact number and email address.
• All relevant certificates.

Please note that no hand-written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system.  Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application please contact hrrecruitment@ru.ac.za.

Selection Process (provisional date, subject to change):

• Short-listing meeting scheduled for the TBC 2026
• The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.

Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date and will be required to participate in the following selection process:

• Referee reports will be solicited. Candidates will be asked to please inform their referees of this process.
• Shortlisted candidates will be required to submit a paper by a specified date before the interviews.
• On the day of the interviews, candidate will be expected to present their paper, followed by a question-and-answer session.
• A panel interview process is expected to follow the presentation and question-and-answer session.

Remuneration per annum (Grade 08):

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum:                          R281,302

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately):             R391,639

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed-term contract of not less than three years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview.  Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates. 

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. 

Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies. 

Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.

These values are: 
Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion

Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.