Job Type: Full-Time

Laboratory Scientist (1 Post) – Dar

The Laboratory Scientist position reports to the Principal Investigator of the MSMT2 project and is located in Dar es Salaam.

Position Summary

The Ifakara Health Institute (IHI), together with the Ministry of Health, the National Malaria Control Programme, the President’s Office, Regional Administration and Local Government, and the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR), is running the second phase of a malaria molecular surveillance project in Mainland Tanzania (MSMT2). IHI is looking for a motivated and skilled Laboratory Scientist to support the project’s lab activities.

Duties and Responsibilities

As a Laboratory Scientist, your tasks will include:

  • Planning and overseeing the collection of samples from health facilities and analyzing these samples for the project.
  • Making sure all specimens received at the lab are properly registered and processed, with all test results recorded according to the MSMT2 project’s standard operating procedures (SOPs).
  • Keeping track of specimen storage and records, following SOPs closely.
  • Planning and executing both routine and specialized technical procedures needed for the project, including troubleshooting as needed.
  • Helping to maintain the cleanliness and standards of laboratory equipment based on guidance from engineers and equipment manuals.
  • Carrying out experimental processes according to the lab analysis plan, ensuring results are timely and of high quality.
  • Participating in Quality Control programs to ensure reliable testing procedures, proper equipment function, and adherence to relevant regulations (Good Clinical Laboratory Practices – GCLP).
  • Working on refining laboratory processes to reduce costs and enhance lab performance.
  • Reviewing lab results to improve experimental protocols and boost success rates.
  • Preparing and updating SOPs, along with handling other administrative tasks assigned by senior project leaders.
  • Conducting molecular, genetic, genomic, and serological analyses to support malaria molecular surveillance (MMS) and project needs.
  • Generating genomic data on the three genomes involved in malaria (parasites, vectors, and humans) and any additional data as directed by senior project leaders.
  • Ensuring that preventive maintenance of lab equipment is performed as scheduled.
  • Being available for on-call duties when needed.
  • Performing other tasks as assigned by the Project Principal Investigator and senior project leaders at IHI.

Qualification and Experience

  • A Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences (like Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Laboratory Sciences, or Medical Laboratory Science).
  • At least three years of proven experience in genomics and molecular biology techniques is essential for this role.
  • Prior research experience in genomics or bioinformatics, plus hands-on experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) skills such as library preparation and sequencing on Illumina MiSeq or similar platforms, is highly advantageous.
  • Familiarity with bioinformatics tools and databases (like BLAST, NCBI, Ensembl, or UCSC Genome Browser) is a plus.

Skills and Competencies

  • Basic analytical skills to interpret complex genomic data and derive meaningful conclusions.
  • Strong written and verbal communication skills with good English proficiency.
  • Flexibility and adaptability to new environments.
  • Understanding of good clinical laboratory practices.

Remuneration

IHI offers an attractive and competitive salary package based on IHI salary scales.

Equal Opportunity

IHI is an equal opportunity employer. We do not tolerate discrimination or harassment in any form. All employment decisions are made based on job requirements and individual qualifications, in accordance with Tanzanian labor laws.

Mode of Application

If you meet the job requirements, please send your application letter and detailed CV, including your email and phone contacts, along with copies of your academic and professional certificates to the email address below.

Application Deadline: 17:00 hrs on Thursday, 15 November 2024. Use the subject line [LABORATORY SCIENTIST – MSMT2] in your email. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interviews.

Human Resources Manager
Ifakara Health Institute
Plot 463 Mikocheni
P.O. Box 78,373
Dar es Salaam, Tanzania

Email: recruitment@ihi.or.tz