Laboratory Scientist at Ifakara Health Institute

Job Summary
Position: Laboratory Scientist (3 Posts)
Reports To: IHI Bagamoyo Laboratory Manager
Work Station: Bagamoyo
Application Deadline: 31st December 2024

Institute Overview
The Ifakara Health Institute (IHI) is a premier research organization in Africa renowned for its groundbreaking work in developing, testing, and validating health innovations. The Institute’s research spans biomedical and ecological sciences, intervention studies, health-systems research, service delivery, and policy translation, all aimed at improving public health outcomes.

Position Summary
IHI is seeking qualified Laboratory Scientists to perform routine and experimental laboratory tests in Molecular Biology, Immunology, and Serology. The successful candidates will ensure high-quality and reliable data production by adhering to SOPs, ISO 15189 standards, GCP, GCLP, and study protocols.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory tests and analyses in Molecular Biology, Immunology, and Serology as per SOPs, ISO 15189 standards, and study protocols.
• Adhere to safety and hygiene standards, ensuring a safe working environment and preventing hazardous exposures.
• Prepare and review laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Participate in designing, preparing, and supervising studies involving laboratory techniques.
• Implement quality control measures, including performance monitoring, instrument calibration, and maintenance.
• Receive, label, prepare, and store samples while maintaining proper documentation and tracking.
• Accurately record and report test results while adhering to ISO 15189:2022 documentation requirements.
• Supervise assigned sections and ensure timely processing and delivery of results.
• Perform routine equipment maintenance and troubleshoot malfunctions as needed.
• Monitor laboratory inventory and manage supplies to ensure uninterrupted workflows.
• Stay updated on advancements in laboratory technologies, methods, and ISO 15189:2022 standards.
• Train and mentor students, volunteers, and interns.
• Collaborate with laboratory staff and communicate findings effectively.
• Participate in quality management systems, internal and external quality assessments, and continuous process improvements.
• Review and authorize lab results in specialized areas.
• Conduct competency assessments, data analysis, and contribute to manuscript and protocol writing.
• Oversee laboratory training programs and archive relevant training documents.

Qualifications and Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in Biotechnology, Laboratory Sciences, or a related field.
• Minimum of one year of experience in biomedical research and clinical trials, particularly in Molecular Biology, Immunology, Microbiology, and Serology.
• Knowledge of ISO 15189:2022 standards and quality management systems.
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques and instrumentation.
• Strong communication, teamwork, and ethical standards.
• Ability to work independently and under supervision.
• Physical capability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks.

Skills and Competencies

• Proficiency in molecular and genomics techniques (e.g., PCR, gel electrophoresis, NGS sequencing).
• Expertise in Immunology and serological techniques (e.g., ELISA, ELISPOT, PBMC separation and freezing).
• Data analysis skills using statistical methods and software.
• Computer literacy.
• Attention to detail, analytical thinking, and problem-solving skills.
• Effective communication, leadership, and teamwork abilities.
• Research protocol and report writing skills.
• Flexibility and ability to work under pressure.

Remuneration
An attractive and competitive remuneration package will be offered to successful candidates based on IHI salary scales.

Equal Opportunity Employer
IHI is an equal opportunity employer. We are committed to fostering a workplace free from bias, discrimination, or harassment. Recruitment decisions are based solely on job requirements and individual qualifications, as governed by Tanzanian labor laws.

Apply By: 31st December 2024