SAMRC Genomics Internship 2026: R16 047 Per Month

The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) is offering a Genomics Internship Programme for 2026 in Cape Town. This one-year paid internship is for graduates with a BSc Honours degree or higher in Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a related field. It provides valuable technical training and capacity development in areas like Good Laboratory Practice and Next Generation Sequencing.

Application Closing Date: 14 November 2026
Location: Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa
Programme Duration: 1 year
Stipend: R16 047 per month
Minimum Qualification: BSc Honours degree or equivalent four-year degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a related discipline; or a higher qualification.
Opportunity Type: Internship

About the SAMRC Genomics Internship

The SAMRC Genomics Platform is offering a Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) Intern Programme. This internship, established in 2023, aims to provide technical training and build capacity in key laboratory areas. These include Good Laboratory Practice, Next Generation Sequencing, and laboratory workflow automation.

The successful intern will join the SAMRC Genomics Platform laboratory team. They will gain practical experience by participating in important laboratory projects. This hands-on experience is designed to develop essential skills for a career in genomics.

About the SAMRC

The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC) is a leading medical research institution in South Africa. It is dedicated to improving the health of the nation through research, innovation, and capacity development. The SAMRC supports a wide range of research areas, including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, and health systems research.

The SAMRC plays a critical role in advancing medical knowledge and translating research findings into practical health solutions. It also focuses on training the next generation of health researchers and scientists.

Available Internship Opportunities

This internship focuses on the Genomics Platform. The specific opportunity is for the Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) Intern Programme.

What the Internship Offers

Successful interns will gain valuable experience and training. This includes:

• Practical experience in a research laboratory setting.
• Technical training in Good Laboratory Practice.
• Training in Next Generation Sequencing techniques.
• Exposure to laboratory workflow automation.
• Participation in genomics-related projects.
• Development of practical Next Generation Sequencing skills.
• A monthly stipend of R16 047.

Programme Duration and Location

This internship is based in Cape Town, Western Cape, South Africa. The programme duration is one year.

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• Hold a BSc Honours degree or an equivalent four-year degree in Molecular Biology, Genetics, or a related discipline. A higher qualification is also acceptable.
• Possess one to two years of knowledge or experience in Molecular Biology or Genetics.
• Have one to two years of knowledge or experience with basic molecular biology techniques.
• Have a basic understanding of genomics.
• Have a basic understanding of Next Generation Sequencing.
• Possess knowledge of Good Laboratory Practice.
• Have good communication skills.
• Be able to work effectively as part of a team.

Molecular Biology Skills Required

Applicants should have knowledge or experience in techniques such as:

• RNA isolation.
• DNA isolation.
• PCR.
• Gel electrophoresis.

Advantageous Knowledge and Experience

The following will be considered advantageous:

• Knowledge or experience in Next Generation Sequencing laboratory workflows.
• Sample management experience.
• DNA quality control experience.
• RNA quality control experience.
• Previous participation in research projects involving molecular biology.
• Research experience in genetics.
• Research experience in genomics.
• Exposure to genomic data.
• Exposure to genomics applications in biomedical research.

Candidate Selection Criteria

Candidates must also meet these conditions:

• Must not be studying full-time.
• Any classes attended must take place after normal working hours.
• Must not have formal work experience within the Molecular Biology or Genetics field.

Candidates will be assessed based on their academic background, relevant knowledge, interest in genomics and NGS, and potential to develop practical laboratory skills.

Who Should Apply?

This internship is ideal for recent graduates with a strong academic background in Molecular Biology or Genetics. It suits individuals who are not currently studying full-time and are eager to gain practical, hands-on experience in a research environment. If you have a basic understanding of genomics and Next Generation Sequencing and are looking to develop your laboratory skills, this opportunity is for you.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents for their application:

• Updated CV.
• Certified copy of South African ID.
• Certified copy of BSc Honours degree or equivalent qualification.
• Academic record.
• A cover letter detailing your interest in genomics and NGS.
• Any other documents requested on the application portal.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online through the official SAMRC recruitment platform.

Click here to apply for SAMRC Genomics Internship 2026

Applicants should ensure that all required information and supporting documents are submitted accurately before the closing date.

Important Application Information

Applicants should ensure that:

• They meet all the required qualification criteria.
• They possess the necessary molecular biology or genetics knowledge.
• They are not currently studying full-time.
• Any studies they are undertaking occur outside normal working hours.
• They do not have formal work experience in the Molecular Biology or Genetics field.
• Their application clearly demonstrates a strong interest in genomics and Next Generation Sequencing.

Closing Date

The closing date for the SAMRC Genomics Internship 2026 is 14 November 2026. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications well before the deadline.

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