Administrative Assistant (Research) Opportunity at Durban University of Technology – Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology
Durban University of Technology invites applications for an Administrative Assistant (Research) position at the Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology. The 6-month contract role is ideal for candidates with an Honours or BTech in Biological Sciences and offers experience in research administration and laboratory coordination.
The Durban University of Technology (DUT) has announced an exciting short-term opportunity for professionals interested in research administration and laboratory operations. The position, Administrative Assistant (Research), will be based at the Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology (IWWT) and offers a six-month contract for a motivated individual with a background in biological sciences.
This opportunity is ideal for candidates looking to gain valuable experience in research coordination, scientific administration, and laboratory management while working within an academic research environment focused on water and wastewater innovation.
About the Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology
The Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology at DUT is a specialized research unit dedicated to advancing knowledge and technological solutions in the areas of water quality, environmental protection, and wastewater treatment. Through multidisciplinary research, the institute contributes to addressing pressing environmental challenges while supporting sustainable water management.
Research institutions such as IWWT rely heavily on effective administrative support to ensure the smooth operation of projects, laboratories, and collaborative initiatives. The Administrative Assistant (Research) position plays a key role in maintaining this operational efficiency.
Purpose of the Administrative Assistant (Research) Role
The main objective of the role is to provide administrative and operational support to research teams within the institute. The position ensures that research activities, meetings, laboratory schedules, and procurement processes are well organized and managed effectively.
By assisting with documentation, communication, procurement, and stock management, the Administrative Assistant helps create a structured environment where researchers can focus on scientific investigations and innovation.
This role is particularly suitable for individuals who have a strong interest in scientific research administration, laboratory coordination, and environmental science projects.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants interested in the position must meet the following minimum qualification requirements:
- Honours or BTech degree in Biological Sciences
This academic background ensures that the successful candidate has a foundational understanding of scientific concepts and laboratory environments, which is essential when supporting research operations.
Recommended Skills and Experience
Although not mandatory, the following skills and experience will be considered advantageous during the selection process:
- Knowledge of research administration procedures
- Understanding of chemicals and laboratory consumables
- Familiarity with institutional policies, procedures, and regulations
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint
- Experience using digital collaboration platforms such as Microsoft Teams, OneDrive, and Zoom
- Prior experience working in a research department or laboratory environment
Candidates with these competencies will be better equipped to handle the administrative responsibilities associated with managing research documentation, procurement processes, and laboratory schedules.
Key Responsibilities
The Administrative Assistant will perform a wide range of administrative and coordination tasks that support the institute’s daily operations. These duties ensure that research teams remain organized, informed, and properly resourced.
Meeting Coordination and Documentation
One of the core responsibilities of the role is assisting with meeting management. This includes:
- Scheduling meetings for research teams and institute leadership
- Preparing meeting agendas
- Attending meetings and recording accurate minutes
- Distributing agendas, reports, and meeting documentation
These tasks help maintain effective communication among researchers and administrative staff.
Administrative and Communication Support
The successful candidate will also provide general administrative support to the institute, including:
- Handling telephone queries and messages
- Coordinating communication between team members
- Assisting with document preparation and distribution
- Supporting day-to-day administrative activities assigned by the Head of the Institute
Laboratory and Research Coordination
Another key aspect of the role involves supporting the operational needs of research laboratories. Responsibilities include:
- Organizing laboratory schedules and research meetings
- Maintaining orderly documentation of laboratory activities
- Assisting researchers with protocol documentation and administrative submissions
This ensures that research projects proceed efficiently and comply with institutional guidelines.
Stock Control and Consumables Management
Laboratory research requires the careful management of equipment, chemicals, and consumables. The Administrative Assistant will assist with:
- Maintaining an updated inventory of laboratory consumables
- Monitoring stock usage
- Assisting with periodic stock-taking activities
- Ensuring the availability of necessary supplies for research activities
Effective stock management is essential for preventing disruptions to laboratory operations.
Procurement and Requisitions
The role also involves supporting procurement processes for research materials. Tasks include:
- Completing electronic and manual requisitions
- Ordering equipment, hardware, software, and laboratory supplies
- Coordinating the receipt and distribution of purchased materials
- Ensuring proper documentation of procurement activities
These responsibilities ensure that researchers have the resources they need to conduct experiments and carry out projects successfully.
Contract Duration and Salary
The Administrative Assistant (Research) role is offered on a six-month contract basis, providing short-term employment with valuable professional experience.
The position offers a monthly salary of approximately R18,059.69, which is competitive for contract administrative roles within the academic research sector.
Application Process
Interested applicants must submit the following documents:
- A completed official DUT application for employment form
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae
- A cover letter clearly indicating the post being applied for
The application form can be downloaded from the DUT website. All completed applications should be submitted via email to:
Applicants should note that only applications submitted using the official DUT application form will be considered.
Additionally, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further communication during the recruitment process.
Closing Date for Applications
The closing date for applications is 15 March. Prospective applicants are encouraged to submit their documents before the deadline to ensure consideration.
A Valuable Opportunity in Research Administration
For graduates with a background in biological sciences, this position provides a unique opportunity to gain experience in research administration and laboratory coordination within a respected academic institution.
Working at the Durban University of Technology’s Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology allows candidates to contribute to research initiatives that address critical environmental challenges, particularly in water and wastewater management.
By combining administrative expertise with scientific knowledge, the Administrative Assistant will play an important role in supporting the institute’s mission of advancing research and innovation in environmental and water technologies.
Email: [email protected] obtainable from our website www.dut.ac.za
