Introduction

Chartered in 1983, Aga Khan University (AKU) is a private, autonomous, and self-governing international university, with 13 teaching sites in 6 countries over three continents. An integral part of the Aga Khan Development Network, AKU provides higher education in multiple health science and social science disciplines, carries out research pertinent primarily to low- and middle-income countries and operates 7 hospitals (soon 8) and over 325 outreach clinics, all at international standards. It has almost 2,500 students and 14,000 staff. The University is both a model of academic excellence and an agent of social change. As a leading international institution dedicated to excellence and change, AKU operates on the core principles of quality, relevance, impact, and access.

IHD’s vision is to drive innovation in research in early human development that advances the quality of individual lives and contributes to building successful pluralistic societies. IHD generates new knowledge through basic and applied research, apply the knowledge gained through research to inform programmes, services and practices within community settings, influence policy formulation and implementation in ways that reap the benefits of the systematic research produced at the institute and elsewhere. The institute also delivers educational programmes at multiple levels of study to prepare a wide range of human development specialists and professionals.

Job Summary

The Lab Technician will support the research project by performing routine diagnostic tests, processing and analyzing samples, and ensuring the quality and accuracy of laboratory results.

Responsibilities

• Collect biological samples (e.g., blood, urine) from study participants.
• Process and prepare samples for analysis, including centrifugation and preservation.
• Ensure proper labeling, storage, and transportation of samples to maintain their integrity
• Conduct routine diagnostic tests such as urinalysis, full hemogram, VDRL STI testing (Gene expert), and other relevant assays.
• Perform initial laboratory analysis and report findings to the research team
• Record and maintain accurate laboratory records and logs.
• Ensure the confidentiality and integrity of laboratory data.
• Record laboratory results into electronic data capture systems and maintain accurate records
• Work closely with the research team to coordinate sample collection, storage and transfers.
• Adhere to all laboratory safety and biosafety protocols.
• Stay updated with the latest developments in laboratory technology and diagnostics
• Ensure proper storage of study documents/ samples.
• Provide regular updates on progress, challenges, and submit timely reports on data collection activities.

Requirements

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Technology
• Valid laboratory technologist license in Kenya.

Relevant Experience

• At least 2 years of experience in a clinical or research laboratory setting
• Proficiency in laboratory techniques and diagnostic procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Experience using tablet-based software for collecting data (e.g Redcap, ODK)
• Familiarity with research ethics.
• Ability to work under minimal supervision.
• Should be fluent in English/Swahili and the community local languages
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Personal Characteristics & Behaviours

• Team player
• Good communication skills (both written and oral)
• Attention to detail.
• Good natured and presentable

• Collect biological samples (e.g., blood, urine) from study participants.
• Process and prepare samples for analysis, including centrifugation and preservation.
• Ensure proper labeling, storage, and transportation of samples to maintain their integrity
• Conduct routine diagnostic tests such as urinalysis, full hemogram, VDRL STI testing (Gene expert), and other relevant assays.
• Perform initial laboratory analysis and report findings to the research team
• Record and maintain accurate laboratory records and logs.
• Ensure the confidentiality and integrity of laboratory data.
• Record laboratory results into electronic data capture systems and maintain accurate records
• Work closely with the research team to coordinate sample collection, storage and transfers.
• Adhere to all laboratory safety and biosafety protocols.
• Stay updated with the latest developments in laboratory technology and diagnostics
• Ensure proper storage of study documents/ samples.
• Provide regular updates on progress, challenges, and submit timely reports on data collection activities.

• Proficiency in laboratory techniques and diagnostic procedures.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.
• Experience using tablet-based software for collecting data (e.g Redcap, ODK)
• Familiarity with research ethics.
• Ability to work under minimal supervision.
• Fluent in English/Swahili and the community local languages
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good communication skills (both written and oral)

• Diploma or Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Technology
• Valid laboratory technologist license in Kenya.