My main responsibilities were to manage and conduct cancer research projects and oversee molecular diagnostic testing in the field of cancer genetics. Train postgraduate students, intern medical scientists and technologists.

The job was contract based position for a research project conducted for the Pilots Against Cancer group. The research involved anlaysis of airline pilots for chromosome damage to assess if they had increased chromosome damage due to long term ionizing radiation exposure.

KEY SKILLS· Fluorescence in situ hybridisation (FISH), including probe design and production, analysis, interpretation and writing of diagnostic reports.· Multi-colour fluorescence in situ hybridisation (M-FISH) to solve complex cytogenetic cases.· DNA and RNA preparation from various sources including, blood, bone marrow, cultured cells, Formalin fixed tissue (DNA only).· PCR and RT-PCR optimisation· Quantitative RT-PCR and sequencing.· DNA copy number microarrays· Experience with analysis of metaphase chromosomes for breaks and gaps (ionising radiation induced DNA damage).· Computer literate in Word, Excel, DISA and specialised software programs for imaging and data analysis e.g. Cytovision, Genepattern, Affymetrix Genotyping Console, Partek Genomics Suite.· Basic statistics· Powerpoint presentationRESPONSIBILITIES AND DECISION MAKING: Research and development of new tests in molecular genetics.· Maintaining the standards of tests in line with the ISO standard of the South African National· Accreditation System (SANAS). Propose research projects and budgets.· Budget for suitable equipment and software to support diagnostic and research functions.· Run routine diagnostic tests for haematological malignancies, including Fluorescence in situ· hybridisation, RT-PCR and QR-PCR tests. Check FISH analysis results and sign out results on the hospital IT system (DISA).· Student training and supervision· Perform external quality assurance tests.· Report to Unit head and give project presentations.