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ABOUT SEMLI
The Sport, Exercise Medicine and Lifestyle Institute (SEMLI) at the University of Pretoria is a leading centre of excellence in applied sport science, athlete performance, and research. Our multidisciplinary team integrates contemporary sport science, research, and innovative methodologies to support athlete development and advance knowledge in sport and exercise performance.
SEMLI invites applications from suitably qualified, motivated, and enthusiastic Sport Science Honours graduates for its paid, one-year internship programme commencing in January 2027.
The programme provides graduates with a full-time opportunity to develop their practical skills in a supportive, multidisciplinary environment through structured mentorship, research involvement, and hands-on experience across multiple sporting codes and high-performance areas.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
The successful candidates will assist with and contribute to:
- Applied sport science support in physiology, biomechanics, strength and conditioning, athlete monitoring, and competition programmes;
- Athlete profiling, monitoring, and performance data collection;
- GPS tracking and athlete monitoring systems, including Catapult and Polar;
- Match, competition, and training support;
- Practical implementation of performance programmes;
- Administrative and operational support within the Sport Science Unit;
- Mentorship engagement and support to University of Pretoria students, where applicable;
- Research activities aligned with SEMLI’s strategic priorities; and
- Collaboration with coaches and multidisciplinary staff across various sporting codes.
MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:
- An Honours degree in Sport Science;
- Practical exposure to an applied sport science environment;
- An understanding of athlete profiling, monitoring, and GPS tracking;
- Computer literacy in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint;
- Strong communication and interpersonal skills;
- The ability to work effectively within a coach-led, interdisciplinary environment; and
- The willingness and availability to travel and work outside ordinary working hours, including weekends, where required.
First aid and/or basic life support certification will be advantageous.
DESIRABLE QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
Exposure to one or more of the following will be advantageous:
- Strength and Conditioning certification (e.g. CSCS or equivalent);
- Anthropometry certification (e.g. ISAK or equivalent);
- Data analysis and reporting using Excel, Power BI, and/or R;
- Applied research methodologies;
- Proven applied experience in Football, rugby, or other high-performance sporting environments; and
- Athlete monitoring systems and performance testing.
COMPETENCIES:
- High professional and ethical standards;
- Strong organisational and problem-solving abilities;
- Enthusiasm for and commitment to athlete and coach development;
- The ability to apply contemporary sport science knowledge in practical settings;
- The ability to perform effectively under pressure and meet deadlines;
- A positive, proactive, and team-oriented attitude; and
- The ability to provide suitable professional or academic references.
CONTRACT AND REMUNERATION:
The successful candidates will be appointed to a paid, one-year internship commencing in January 2027. Remuneration will be aligned with applicable internship market benchmarks.
The programme offers an opportunity for professional growth and development within a high-performance, research-led environment.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
Applicants must submit:
- A comprehensive curriculum vitae; and
- A short motivational letter.
Applications must be emailed to: hr-hub@semli.co.za
Applications open: 1 September 2026
Closing date: 21 September 2026
- Shortlisted candidates must be available for interviews between 28 September and 2 October 2026.
- Late applications and applications submitted through social-media direct messages will not be considered.
- SEMLI reserves the right not to make an appointment to any or all of the advertised internship positions.