FACULTY OF NATURAL AND APPLIED SCIENCE
DEPARTMENT OF BIOLOGICAL SCIENCES
VACANCY NO: IRC 3357C
The University of Botswana (UB), a premier state-owned tertiary institution dedicated to shaping the future through excellence, research, innovation and meaningful societal impact, invites applications from accomplished and suitably qualified professionals for the position of Senior Technician in Microbiology in the Department of Biological
Sciences, under the School of Physical and Life Science.
The Senior Technician in Microbiology is responsible for preparing equipment and materials for laboratories/ workshops, ensuring the equipment and materials within the faculty are in good order and provide teaching support as required for all teaching and learning environments.
Duties: The successful candidate will be expected to: (i) contribute to the development of and implement the unit strategy, policies, and procedures; (ii) plan, coordinate, schedule and implement field and laboratory practicals; (iii) provide necessary support to students and researchers in laboratory practicals, field work, tutorials and research projects as directed by a course lecturer; (iv) assist the lecturer with assessment/grading of student reports for laboratory/field work/tutorials; (v) contribute to ongoing research activities to support knowledge creation, intellectual property, and commercialization in line with area of expertise; (vi) ensure that equipment is functional and optimally utilized; (vii) ensure adherence to SHE protocols and guidelines; (viii) provide technical advice to students and staff and timely reporting of equipment faults; (ix) recommend decommissioning of obsolete equipment and its replacement; (x) maintain accurate and up to date inventory (equipment and stock) records; (xi) participate in the identification and mitigation of operational risks; (xii) To participate in internal and external audits in line with University policies; (xiii) respond to customer/stakeholder queries and inquiries related to area of expertise; (xiv) adhere to performance targets as reflected in the performance review and appraisal; (xv) identify learning opportunities and follow up on own training and development in line with departmental needs; (xvi) undertake any other duties as directed by the supervisor in line with their role.
Minimum requirements: Candidates should have: (i) A Bachelor’s degree in Biological Sciences or related field; (ii) A minimum of four (4) years’ experience as technician in Microbiology; (iii) Strong experience in technical operations, equipment maintenance, and facility management, preferably in an academic or research environment; (iv) strong technical skills and knowledge of equipment maintenance procedures and inventory management practices; (v) understand curriculum requirements to better support students and the course lecturer; (vi) Ensure accuracy in assessment methods and grading; (vii) Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders; (viii) Commitment to safety and adherence to relevant regulations and standards.
Added advantage(s): (i) A Master’s degree in the relevant area; (ii) Higher education experience.
Remuneration: The University of Botswana offers a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
How to apply: Letters of application are to address the stated qualifications and provide any other information to assist the University to determine your suitability for the position. Quote the vacancy number of the post applied for. Provide a full and up-to-date CV (including telephone, and e-mail), certified true copies of educational certificates and names and addresses, of three referees.
Applicants should inform their referees to (i) Quote the vacancy number and position applied for and (ii) submit their references directly to the below address, before the stipulated closing date. Applications should be addressed to: The Faculty Manager, Faculty of Natural and Applied Science, Private Bag UB 00704, Gaborone. Botswana. Tel: (267) 3552969; Fax (267) 3185097; e-mail fnasvacancies@ub.ac.bw
Hand-delivered applications should be submitted to the University of Botswana Gaborone campus, Block 233 Office No. 132.
NB: Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.
Closing Date: 24 September 2026