Are you a qualified medical practitioner eager to pursue specialist training in pathology or laboratory medicine? The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) invites applications for its Registrar Programme (January 2026 intake). Successful candidates will undergo specialist training in disciplines such as Anatomical Pathology, Chemical Pathology, Microbiology, Haematology, and Virology, hosted at top South African universities.
Vacancy Details
| Employer: | National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) |
|---|---|
| Closing Date: | 21 October 2025 |
| Programme Start Date: | January 2026 |
| Duration: | 4–5 years (depending on discipline) |
| Work-back Obligation: | 2 years in areas of need as identified by NHLS |
| Location: | Multiple training centres across South Africa |
Available Registrar Positions by University
Sefako Makgatho Health Sciences University
Ref: GAUSMU-1025-001
- Anatomical Pathology ×2
- Chemical Pathology ×1
University of the Witwatersrand
Ref: GAUWITS-1025-001
- Anatomical Pathology ×5
- Chemical Pathology ×4
- Virology ×1
- Clinical Pathology ×1
University of KwaZulu-Natal
Ref: KZNUKZN-1025-001
- Anatomical Pathology ×1
University of Cape Town
Ref: WNCUCT-1025-001
- Anatomical Pathology ×4
- Chemical Pathology ×2
- Virology ×1
University of the Free State
Ref: FNWUFS-1025-001
- Microbiology ×1
- Chemical Pathology ×1
- Haematology ×2
University of Stellenbosch
Ref: WNCUS-1025-001
- Chemical Pathology ×1
- Virology ×2
- Haematology ×1
University of Pretoria
Ref: GAUUP-1025-001
- Anatomical Pathology ×1
- Microbiology ×2
- Chemical Pathology ×1
- Virology ×1
- Haematology ×2
Programme Overview
The NHLS Registrar Programme provides structured specialist training in:
- Anatomical Pathology
- Chemical Pathology
- Medical Microbiology
- Haematology
- Medical Virology
During the programme, registrars will participate in academic teaching, clinical laboratory service delivery, and undergraduate training. The programme runs for 4–5 years, depending on the discipline.
Successful candidates will be remunerated in line with the DPSA salary scale for registrars and the NHLS employment conditions.
Minimum Requirements
- MBChB/MBBCh degree (or equivalent)
- Registration with the HPCSA as a Medical Practitioner (Independent Practice)
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Completed NHLS application form
- Motivation letter
- Comprehensive CV
- Certified copy of ID
- Copies of qualifications
- Academic transcripts
- Current HPCSA certificate
- Two confidential professional references (sent directly by referees to NHLS before closing date)
Candidates must indicate:
- Up to two (2) preferred universities, and
- Up to two (2) preferred disciplines
Applications exceeding these limits or missing any required documents will not be considered.
Applicants are encouraged to visit the respective university websites for discipline-specific details and to engage with Heads of Academic Departments for guidance. Job shadowing is also recommended for better understanding of the training environment.
How to Apply
Send your completed application and required documents via email to:
📧 registrarintake@nhls.ac.za
Enquiries:
- Mr. Keslin Chetty: 011 386 6537
- Ms. Mathapelo Dlamini: 011 386 6099
Ensure your application is received before the closing date. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Additional Information
- Applications will undergo pre-employment screening and qualification verification.
- The interview process may include aptitude and psychometric assessments.
- Employment Equity principles will apply in line with NHLS and University targets.
- Priority will be given to African and Coloured male and female citizens and persons with disabilities.
Equal Opportunity Statement
The National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer committed to diversity and transformation in academic medicine.
For more information about NHLS and its programmes, visit careers@nhls.ac.za.