**Job Alert:** The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) is looking for fresh South African graduates to join as Intern Medical Scientists for the 2026/2027 program. If you studied medical or clinical pathology and want a hands‑on lab experience that can lead to a professional certificate, this could be your next step.
Why NHLS?
NHLS is the biggest lab network in South Africa. It helps hospitals and clinics by testing patient samples, tracking disease outbreaks, and supporting medical studies. It also trains new science professionals, so you’ll learn from people who work every day with real patients.
What the Intern Program Looks Like
During the two‑year internship you’ll be guided by experienced scientists. You’ll practice the same methods used in accredited laboratories and follow official protocols. When you finish, you can apply to become an Independent Medical Biological Scientist through the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).
Details at a Glance
- Position: Intern Medical Scientist (Grade TC1)
- Contract: Two years, fixed term
- Start: 2026/2027 intake
- Locations: Various NHLS‑approved training centers across South Africa, including universities and national institutes
Stipend You’ll Earn
Stipend varies by qualification level. The amounts are paid once a year:
- NQF Level 8: R193,583.78
- NQF Level 9: R243,353.53
- NQF Level 10: R294,026.14
Training Centres & Disciplines
Below are the places where you can train. Each line shows the number of spots available for a specific lab area. If you want to pick a discipline, match the name of the centre and the specialty in your application.
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Reference: GAUSMU-1225-001
- Anatomical Pathology ×1
- Haematology ×2
- Virology ×4
University of Cape Town
Reference: WNCUCT-1225-001
- Chemical Pathology ×1
- Genetic Counselling ×5
- Haematology ×2
- Immunology ×1
- Virology ×2
University of the Free State
Reference: FNWUFS-1225-001
- Chemical Pathology ×2
- Haematology ×1
- Medical Microbiology ×1
University of KwaZulu‑Natal
Reference: KZNUKZN-1225-001
- Anatomical Pathology ×3
- Chemical Pathology ×1
- Medical Microbiology ×2
University of Pretoria
Reference: GAUUP-1225-001
- Chemical Pathology ×3
- Haematology ×2
- Medical Microbiology ×2
- Medical Virology ×2
Stellenbosch University
Reference: WNCUS-1225-001
- Immunology ×1
- Medical Microbiology ×1
- Medical Virology ×2
University of the Witwatersrand
Reference: GAUWITS-1225-001
- Anatomical Pathology ×2
- Genetic Counselling ×4
- Haematology ×2
- Human Genetics ×4
- Molecular Biology ×2
National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD)
Reference: NICD-1225-001
- Medical Microbiology ×5
- Molecular Biology ×2
- Virology ×2
National Institute of Occupational Health (NIOH)
Reference: NIOH-1225-001
- Analytical Services ×2
- Anatomical Pathology ×1
- Medical Microbiology ×2
Who Can Apply?
To qualify, you must meet every single requirement below:
- Hold a four‑year BSc or an Honours degree in a medical or clinical pathology field.
- Have taken core pathology courses – you’ll need to show proof.
- Only those with the right coursework will be considered.
How to Submit Your Application
Send your application to internmedicalscientist@nhls.ac.za before the closing date. Make sure to use the right subject line – it helps the team find your application fast:
Subject example: “University of Pretoria – Immunology”
Attach these documents:
- A short Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A certified copy of your South African ID.
- Certified copies of all your degrees.
- Full academic transcripts.
Incomplete or wrongly formatted applications will not be taken into account. We will check your background and qualifications before deciding. If you don’t hear back within two months after the deadline, it means your application was not selected.
Important Information
- All applicants will go through a background check and a review of their qualifications.
- Only candidates who are shortlisted will receive an interview invitation.
- We follow employment equity guidelines when hiring.
Apply Now
Ready to apply? Click Apply for NHLS Intern Medical Scientist Positions 2026/2027 and send your documents before the closing date.
Deadline
Applications close on 23 January 2026. Late submissions will not be accepted.