Serology Laboratory Technician

The Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU) based at the National Institute for Medical Research campus in Mwanza, Tanzania is a collaborative research unit of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and the National Institute for Medical Research. The mission of the Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit is to contribute to improving health through the development and evaluation of interventions against infections, cancer and other health problems by conducting research, including clinical trials, to the highest international standards. MITU aims to enhance the capacity to carry out such research in Tanzania and to contribute to the translation of research findings into health policy. The Unit is currently collaborating with other international research partners on an exciting 3 year clinical trial (the DoRIS trial) to compare the safety and immunogenicity of a one, two and three dose schedule of human papillomavirus vaccines .that can prevent cervical cancer. The study will be conducted in healthy females in Mwanza city. The Unit is now inviting applications from motivated and suitably qualified candidates to fill the following positions that will be based at the research laboratory of the National Institute of Medical Research (NIMR), Mwanza. .

Serology Laboratory Technician (1 POSITION)


The successful candidate will be responsible for performing serological assays such as HIV 'testing for the DoRIS trial, for quality assurance testing for pregnancy' and for ensuring samples are stored appropriately in tile MITU laboratory archive. 

Specific responsibilities
• Performing tasks in accordance with GCP and GCLP guidelines.
• Receipt and processing of human blood samples and testing these using HIV rapid-tests and ELISA for HIV and herpes simplex infections.
• Receipt and testing of urine samples for pregnancy.
• Cryopreservation of serum, vaginal samples and urine samples.
• Providing backup support to other laboratory areas where required by the DoRIS trial team.
• Performing quality control of all performance techniques.
• Accurate entry of sample information into the laboratory information management system and maintenance of data spreadsheets.
• Maintaining an inventory of sample aliquots produced and their location and the preparation of samples for transfer to the NIMR Archive.
• Maintaining any documentation related to research assays and running the laboratory, such as standard operating procedures (SOPs).
• Maintenance of equipment including keeping daily logs of equipment and routine cleaning of laboratory work areas.
• Participation in organizing shipment of samples in accordance with the lATA guidelines.
• Weekly meeting attendance and participation.
• Following and ensuring strict safety procedures and safety checks.
• Perform any other duties related to the DoRIS trial as may be assigned by the lab supervisor, lab manager and the principal investigators.

Essential qualifications
• Bachelor's degree in Biomedical Laboratory Technology or a related discipline.
• At least one year's work experience performing serological assays as a laboratory technician.
• Ability to draft and follow established SOPs.
• Ability to organize workflow efficiently.
• Proficiency using MS Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Work experience in a research laboratory setting especially using immunological assays.
• Fluent in spoken and written English .
• Desirable qualifications
• Post graduate/advanced training in immunology.
• Ability to multi-task since each clinical protocol may have unique processing requirements.
• Experience working with clinical trials or research studies.
• Trained in 'GCP and GCLP
• Previous experience working in a GCLP-compliant and/or accredited laboratory
• Previous experience working in multi-disciplinary teams (e.g. with epidemiologists, clinicians)


How To Apply:

All applications must be sent by email to the address below.
Letter of application addressed to Dr Severin Kabakama with details of WHICH POST you are applying for and how you meet EACH of the above criteria and your suitability for the post.
A daytime mobile telephone number and e-mail contact details.

Curriculum vitae (CV) including names and addresses of three referees (two must be from your most recent employers).
Copies of all relevant certificates and memberships and qualifications.

Closing date for applications
• Applications received later than 30th June 2016 will not be considered
• Interviews will be held at the earliest available opportunity and you will be notified by email if you are selected for interview.

All documents to be sent by email to -  recruitment@mitu.or.tz 

A competitive remuneration package will be offered. .