Research Intern

The Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI) is seeking a Research Intern. This position offers a postgraduate researcher with a master's degree the opportunity to gain hands-on experience within AHRI’s Basic and Translational Science Department. The Research Intern will support a study investigating intestinal permeability, immune activation, and inflammation in children and adolescents living with HIV enrolled in the ODYSSEY trial.

The Research Intern will provide technical support to the Principal Investigators by performing high-dimensional flow cytometry, ELISA, and Luminex assays on longitudinal clinical samples. The incumbent will contribute to the generation of high-quality data to advance understanding of immune function and inflammation in CALHIV and support efforts to improve long-term treatment outcomes and health. Note: From time to time, he/she may be required to perform other related duties and tasks as authorized by the Line Manager. The position is based at AHRI-Durban Research Campus.

Overview of Duties

• Perform laboratory activities related to the project.
• Assist senior researcher with experiments, quality control and data verification.
• Perform ELISA, Luminex and flow cytometry assays.
• Prepare reagents and maintain an up-to-date inventory of laboratory stock related to the project.
• Perform general laboratory housekeeping and equipment maintenance.
• Participate in the institutional academic activities including journal club, lab meetings, research update meetings and other relevant activities.
• Work overtime, including weekends, when required.

Minimum Qualifications

• Master’s degree in molecular biology, microbiology, biochemistry, virology, immunology or equivalent in related field.
• Good Clinical Laboratory Practice.

Minimum Experience

• A minimum of 1-2 years’ experience in HIV laboratory research.
• Foundational understanding of HIV Immunology.
• BSL2 laboratory experience.
• Experience in cellular and molecular biology, Immunology or Biochemistry techniques including ELISA, Luminex and flow cytometry.
• High level of computer literacy.

Skills Required

• Good verbal and written communication skills in English;
• Accuracy and precision;
• High computer literacy;
• Report writing;
• Must be able to work under pressure;

Worker Type

Employee The application closing date

18 Jul 2026

AHRI is a values-driven organisation. As an employer we are committed to staff engagement and development. Our culture is one of high performance and partnership.

Our values

The successful candidate will be expected to live by AHRI’s values, including collaboration, ubuntu, leadership, innovation, transformation, and excellence.

Employment equity

AHRI is fully compliant with South African labour law and is committed to employment equity. This position is primarily open to South African or other African applicants, with a valid work permit desirable. AHRI reserves the right in special circumstances to accept late applications or to extend the above date to facilitate further searches. Furthermore, AHRI reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, kindly consider your application as unsuccessful if you do not hear from us within 14 days of the application closing date.