Free CSIR Laboratory Management Course 2027: Applications Open for African Life Sciences Graduates and Early-Career Professionals

Overview

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research, through its Southern African Biomanufacturing Training Hub in partnership with UVU BIO, is offering a free online professional development programme titled Laboratory Management Training. This initiative is part of the Strengthening Biomanufacturing Capabilities in Southern Africa programme, supported by KfW Development Bank. The training aims to equip participants with technical skills and laboratory management competencies relevant to vaccine production, pharmaceutical manufacturing, biotechnology, and life sciences research.

Who can apply

The programme targets individuals interested in building careers in biotechnology, pharmaceutical manufacturing, vaccine production, and life sciences. Preference is given to unemployed and under-employed graduates with a National Diploma, BSc, or BTech in life sciences, physical sciences, or engineering, as well as final-year tertiary education students and early-career professionals in related industries. Applications are especially welcomed from women and other candidates underrepresented in these fields.

Applicants must be South African citizens or foreign nationals holding a valid South African study permit, possess a minimum NQF Level 6 qualification or be an eligible final-year student in life sciences, physical sciences, or engineering, and maintain an interest in the biomanufacturing sector. Participants must also have access to a reliable internet connection with recommended speeds of approximately 5 to 10 Mbps for online participation via Microsoft Teams.

What you get

Selected participants receive free training delivered fully online over a duration of five days. The curriculum covers laboratory operations and management, quality management systems including Good Manufacturing Practice and ISO standards, equipment and facility management, sample management and data integrity, laboratory safety and biosafety, and quality culture and continuous improvement. Instruction is provided through live virtual lectures, interactive workshops, practical case studies, guided independent study, and learning resources.

Key dates

Applications must be submitted by 6 December 2026. Successful applicants will be notified on 11 December 2026. The training programme runs from 18 January 2027 to 22 January 2027.