Reference Number:
LT05102023
Employment Type:
Full time
Category:
Epidemiology and Demography
Job Grade:
4.01
Country:
Kenya
Location:
Kilifi.
JOB PURPOSE:
The Pathogen Epidemiology and Omics (PEO) Group is a focused on uncovering epidemiological and immunological dynamics of top viral respiratory (e.g. influenza, SARS-COV-2, RSV, hMPV, etc) and intestinal (e.g. rotavirus, norovirus, adenovirus etc ) infections.
The group runs community and hospital-based studies, most of which are linked to the laboratory processing of participant samples for diagnosis, genomic and immunological characterisation.
We are offering a laboratory technologist  position for a highly motivated person to join the current laboratory team. The successful candidate will provide technical laboratory support to help the group meet its current research objectives
Description:
REPORTS TO: Virology Laboratory Section Head
DIRECTLY SUPERVISES: None
INDIRECTLY SUPERVISES: None
BUDGET AND RESOURCE RESPONSIBILITY: None
JOB DIMENSIONS:
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Nasopharyngeal/oropharyngeal swab, blood and stool sample reception and archiving.
- Serum and peripheral blood morphonuclear cell (PBMC) separation and archiving
- Undertaking cell/virus culture, immunofluorescence test, ELISA, nucleic acid extraction and multiplex reverse transcription PCR, analysis of samples/data and recording of applied processes and procedures
- Interpreting and documenting laboratory procedure results.
- Standardizing, calibrating, and carrying out preventive maintenance and basic troubleshooting on laboratory equipment and instruments.
- Preparing and collating results, updating relevant databases, and communicating results according to laid down procedures.
- Participate in various QAQC, EQA, IQC and regulatory agency activities within the assigned section, including developing and documenting QC monitors.
- Continually comply with all laid down QMS guidelines/ standards/ SOPs and comply with all health and safety guidelines.
- Monitoring laboratory resources use and informing the section head on the replenishment of consumables.
- Liaising with clinical and field teams to ensure compliance with the laid down protocols in respect to sample collection and transport.
- And any other duties that may be assigned from time to time.
JOB SPECIFICATION:
- Diploma in Medical Laboratory Sciences from a recognized institution.
- Registration by Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists Board (KMLTTB) with a valid practicing KMLTTB License.
- Minimum 2 years relevant experience in a molecular laboratory
- Sound knowledge and understanding of GCLP and regulatory/ accreditation agency requirements.
- Detailed understanding of Laboratory Health and Safety practices.
- Computer skills.
COMPETENCIES:
- Demonstrate high levels of integrity and confidentiality 
- Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills 
- Strong organizational, analytical, planning and administrative skills. 
- Good attention to detail and ability to work with minimal supervision 
- Teamwork and ability to work in diverse teams.
WORKING HOURS:
Requires flexibility in the working schedules including weekends.
All applicants are required to state their current/last salary.
Candidates must supply an email and telephone contact that will be used when offering interviews. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Shortlisted candidates shall be required to produce ORIGINALS of their National Identity Card, academic and professional certificates, original transcripts and testimonials, detailed curriculum vitae and valid clearance certificate (certificate of good conduct) during the interviews.
The application closing date is 20th October 2023.
KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP) is an equal opportunity employer. Direct or indirect canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification. KWTRP does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, meeting, processing, training or any other fees).
