Job Summary Position: Laboratory Scientist Intern (1 post)

Reports To: Laboratory Manager

Work Station: Bagamoyo

Institute Overview
Ifakara Health Institute (IHI) is a leading research organization in Africa with a strong track record in developing, testing and validating innovations for health. Driven by a core strategic mandate for research, training and services, the Institute’s work now spans a wide spectrum, covering biomedical and ecological sciences, intervention studies, health-systems research, service delivery and policy translation.

Position Summary
Ifakara Health Institute seeks a qualified and experienced Lab Scientist to perform routine and experimental laboratory tests mainly in the fields of Molecular Biology, Immunology and Serology according to standard procedures (SOPs), ISO 15189 requirements, GCP, GCLP, and the study protocol in order to produce reliable and precise data for scientific investigations and meet customer satisfaction.

Duties and Responsibilities

Perform assigned lab tests including lab analysis in Molecular Biology, Immunology and Serology according to respective SOPs, ISO 15189 requirements, Quality manual, Safety manual, Sample collection manual, GCP, GCLP and adherence to study protocols and ensure recording of accurate, precise and reliable test results.
Adhering strictly to safety and hygiene instructions to prevent accidents and exposure to hazardous materials including monitoring and maintaining laboratory cleanliness and organization.
Preparation and reviewing of laboratory standard operating procedures (SOP).
Taking part in designing, preparing, carrying out or supervising studies involving laboratory techniques.
Carrying out quality control measures of all laboratory procedures which includes performance, monitoring and documentation of IQC, EQA, instrument performance, calibrations and maintenance.
Receive, label, and prepare samples for analysis, and storage ensuring proper documentation and tracking and maintaining sample integrity and traceability throughout the testing process.
Record test results accurately and maintain detailed records following ISO 15189:2022 documentation requirements and study protocols and complete laboratory documentation, including worksheets, reports, data entry and logs.
Ensure all samples are processed on time and results are delivered on time.
Supervising the respective assigned section.
Perform routine maintenance on laboratory equipment; recognize and report equipment malfunctions, and assist in troubleshooting and repairs.
Monitor and replenish laboratory supplies and reagents and assist in managing inventory levels to ensure uninterrupted workflow.
Stay current with developments in laboratory technology, methods, and ISO 15189:2022 standards.
Attend relevant training, meetings and workshops as required and participate in training others including students, volunteers and interns.
Collaborate effectively with other laboratory staff and healthcare professionals.
Communicate test results, findings, and any deviations to the appropriate parties and act to address and findings or deviations according to the SOP.
Engage in the laboratory’s quality management system and participate in internal and external quality assessment programs.
Contribute to the continuous improvement of laboratory processes and procedures.
Review and authorize lab results in areas of Molecular Biology, Immunology and Serology.
Perform competence assessment
Assisting other members of staff in the preparation of manuscripts.
Perform data analysis and participate in manuscript and protocol writing.
Oversees training activities in the lab by establishing and implementing training programs and archiving relevant documents relating to training.
Perform all other duties assigned by the supervisor relating to Lab activities from time to time.
Qualification and Experience
A Bachelor of Science in Biotechnology and Laboratory Sciences or a related field with equivalent education.
One year’s working experience in biomedical research and clinical trials mainly in the fields of Molecular biology, Immunology, Microbiology and Serology.
Knowledge of ISO 15189:2022 standards and quality management systems.
Proficiency in laboratory techniques and instrumentation.
Excellent communication and teamwork abilities.
Commitment to maintaining confidentiality, working Impartial and ethical standards.
Ability to work independently and under supervision.
Physical ability to stand for extended periods and perform repetitive tasks as needed.
Skills and Competencies
Competence in molecular and genomics techniques such as PCR, Gel electrophoresis, NGS sequencing.
Competence in Immunology and serological techniques such as ELISA, ELISPOT, PBMC Separation and freezing.
Skills in data analysis with different statistical methods and software.
Computer skills.
Strong attention to detail and analytical skills.
Ability to work under pressure.
Research protocol and report writing.
Leadership skills.
Problem solving skills.
Effective communication skills.
Team player.
Adhere to IHI core values (Integrity, Initiative, Equity, Excellence, Accountability).
Remuneration
An attractive and competitive remuneration package will be offered to successful candidates as per IHI internship packages.

Equal Opportunity
IHI is an equal opportunity employer. We prohibit intentional biases or discrimination and harassment of any kind at the work place and during recruitment. All employment decisions are based solely on job requirements and individual qualifications, and our recruitment process is governed by the labour laws of Tanzania.