CSIR Bioreactor Training: Funded 5-Day Course in Pretoria
Applications for CSIR bioreactor training are open for a funded, five-day practical course at the CSIR Pretoria campus. The programme runs from 23 to 27 November 2026 and is aimed at people who already have a science or engineering qualification and want to strengthen their biomanufacturing skills.
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The CSIR-hosted Southern African Biomanufacturing Training Hub will select a maximum of 20 participants. South African candidates can receive course-fee support and the travel and accommodation assistance specified in the official advert. Applications close on 31 October 2026 at 16:30 SAST, according to the CSIR’s current listing.
CSIR bioreactor training: the key details
- Programme: Master the Heart of Biomanufacturing: Bioreactor Operation & Troubleshooting, course code I-BTH02
- Host: Southern African Biomanufacturing Training Hub at the CSIR
- Dates: 23–27 November 2026
- Location: CSIR Pretoria campus, Gauteng
- Format: five days of in-person lectures and hands-on training
- Places: a maximum of 20 selected candidates
- Application deadline: 31 October 2026, 16:30 SAST
- Selected candidates are due to be notified by 6 November 2026
CSIR bioreactor training: what you will learn
The course focuses on the practical work involved in preparing, operating and troubleshooting bioreactors. These systems are central to biomanufacturing processes, and the training connects equipment knowledge with process control, reliability and safe working practices.
The advertised learning areas include identifying the parts of a laboratory-scale bioreactor, understanding their functions and preparing the equipment for operation. Participants will also work on the calibration and upkeep of probes and sensors, diagnosis of common operating problems, and appropriate cleaning and sterilisation procedures.
- Recognising bioreactor components and how they work together
- Setting up equipment correctly before a run
- Maintaining and calibrating important probes and sensors
- Investigating operating problems and identifying practical solutions
- Applying clean-in-place and sterilise-in-place procedures
- Following good laboratory and biosafety practices
The training is delivered in person. Applicants should therefore plan for attendance at the Pretoria campus for the full five-day period. Although the advert uses the term blended delivery, its schedule specifies on-site training and describes the blend as classroom teaching together with practical work.
CSIR bioreactor training: who should apply?
Participation is limited to applicants holding a Bachelor of Science or Engineering degree or diploma. The programme is particularly relevant to scientists, technicians and personnel involved in biomanufacturing operations or the development and scale-up of products and processes.
Preference will be given to existing staff who need to extend their skills, staff who are new to the sector, identified employees or new recruits for biomanufacturing facilities, and personnel connected with facilities that are being built and will need a skilled workforce. Qualified applicants can apply, and young women are encouraged to do so.
For a South African applicant, the strongest reason to apply is a clear connection between this training and work you perform or are preparing to perform. Explain that connection accurately. Experience with equipment, laboratory procedures, process development or manufacturing can provide useful context where it is genuinely part of your background.
CSIR bioreactor training: what the funding covers
The official course advert sets out a funding package for South African candidates. It covers course fees and lists accommodation for on-site training, one return airport-to-accommodation transfer and daily transport between the accommodation and the designated CSIR course venue.
Flight support is specifically limited to 10 participants from outside Gauteng. The advert also states that subsistence and travel allowance, referred to as S&T, will not be covered. Do not assume that every personal expense or every applicant’s journey will be funded. If selected, confirm your approved arrangements with the organisers before making bookings.
How to submit your application
- Read the official advert and check your qualification against the entry requirement.
- Confirm that you can attend in Pretoria from 23 to 27 November.
- Open the Microsoft application form linked directly from the CSIR’s Expressions of Interest page.
- Complete the requested fields with accurate qualification, employment and contact information.
- Submit before the 31 October deadline and keep any submission confirmation.
The programme forms part of the BIOcapSA initiative supported by KfW Development Bank. Questions about this course can be directed to BIDC@csir.co.za, the address published in the advert.
You can also access the form and advert through the official CSIR listing.
CSIR bioreactor training: frequently asked questions
Can I take the course entirely online?
No. The published schedule is for five days of on-site training at the CSIR Pretoria campus.
Is this open to someone with only Matric?
The advert requires a science or engineering degree or diploma. Matric alone does not meet that stated requirement.
Does every successful applicant get a flight?
The South African funding package specifies flights for 10 participants outside Gauteng. That is a limited allocation, rather than a flight promise for every place.
Is a stipend included?
The advert does not promise a stipend and explicitly excludes subsistence and travel allowance. Check the exact support offered in your selection correspondence.
For more verified learning opportunities, browse ReignGigs Courses & Training. Details were checked against the official CSIR listing and advert on 20 October 2026.
