Jobs – Laboratory Technologist at Medical Research Council/ Uganda Virus Research Institute

Job Title: Laboratory Technologist

The Medical Research Council/ Uganda Virus Research Institute (MRC/UVRI)Uganda Virus Research Unit on AIDS was established following a request in 1988 from the Uganda Government to the British Government for collaboration on the research of HIV (Human Immunodeficiency Virus) infection and AIDS (Acquired Immunodeficiency). The Unit is a center of excellence in HIV/AIDS related research. It conducts large-scale epidemiological and intervention studies, clinical trials, virological and immunological research and behavioural studies, and has generated a wealth of research results that have been used to inform policy and practice, and that have led to a large number of scientific publications in peer reviewed journals over time.

Job Summary: The Laboratory Technologist will carry out analyses and report results of the laboratory procedures performed in the laboratory, according to GCLP standards.

Key Duties and Responsibilities: 

• Receiving blood samples, processing and storing PBMC, plasma, serum and other biological samples according to SOPs and GCLR
• Compile and produce reliable and precise data by performing SOP- guided laboratory experiments assigned by scientists or supervisors. This includes: Whole blood assays for subsequent cytokine analysis; Staining cells for flowcytometry;
• Also acquiring and analysing flow cytometry data using pre-set templates; ELISPOT assays; ELISA and Luminex assays; Cell cultures for immunology and virology assays, including neutralizing antibody and viral inhibition assays.
• Implementing GCLP practices:
• Cleaning and disinfecting equipment;
• Tracking equipment servicing requirements;
• Monitoring temperatures and liquid nitrogen levels;
• Responsible for performing data backup;
• Running equipment performance QCs;
• In charge of record keeping (electronic and hard copies);
• Ensuring that required reagents and supplies are in sufficient stocks and are kept securely in recommended conditions;
• Preparing reagent and consumable orders for subsequent review and approval by supervisor.
• Performing IATA compliant shipment of samples to and from partner laboratories.
• Ensuring health and safety as per SOPs by conducting safety induction of new staff/students, refilling first Aid boxes, administering first aid, updating materials data safety sheets
• Assist in writing and reviewing of operational and study specific SOPs

Qualifications, Skills and Experience: 

• The applicant should hold a Diploma in Medical Laboratory Technology, a bachelor’s degree in the same will be an added advantage.
• At least two years’ practical experience. Previous experience working within a clinical trials laboratory would be an added advantage
• At least a credit in Mathematics, Physics, Biology and Chemistry
• Past exposure and experience in PBMC processing and sterile tissue culture techniques.
• Computer literacy i.e. ability to use Ms Excel and Access or any flow cytometry analysis software is an added advantage.
• The applicant must be willing to undertake additional training as required by the position, including new research techniques, GCLP, health and safety and regulatory compliance.
• The applicant must be willing to be “on call” for any work occurrences that may necessitate quick intervention whenever necessary.
• Must be fully registered with the Allied Health Professionals Council (AHPC).

How to Apply for the job:

All candidates should send their applications letters, copies of academic qualifications and curriculum vitae including names, telephone contacts and email addresses of three (3) referees should be sent only via e mail to: recruitment@mrcuganda.org. Addressed to The Human Resources Manager, MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS (Remember to quote the position code in the subject line).

NB: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews

Deadline: 12^th September, 2014 by 5PM