Mpala Research Centre is seeking a skilled and detail-oriented Laboratory Technologist to support the delivery of high-quality laboratory services for research, conservation and other scientific activities at Mpala.

The role will undertake laboratory analysis, sample processing, equipment and biosafety procedures, quality documentation and technical support to researchers, while contributing to the effective day-to-day operation of the laboratory.

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Analysis & Sample Management

• Perform laboratory analysis using DNA, microscopy, PCR, NGS and other appropriate techniques based on research requirements.
• Support field sample collection, receipt, processing, storage and tracking of incoming samples.
• Prepare technical reports and support interpretation of results, escalating anomalies or technical concerns to the Laboratory Manager.

Equipment, Biosafety & Laboratory Operations

• Carry out routine equipment calibration, maintenance and decontamination in accordance with established schedules and procedures.
• Implement laboratory biosafety, biosecurity, waste management and decontamination procedures to maintain a safe working environment.
• Monitor laboratory consumables, prepare purchase requests and ensure appropriate storage and availability of supplies.

Quality Management & Documentation

• Maintain accurate laboratory records, inventories, sample documentation and equipment records.
• Follow and support the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and the laboratory Quality Management System.
• Support internal audits, proficiency testing and accreditation assessments by maintaining accurate technical records and providing required documentation

Researcher & Technical Support

• Provide technical guidance and training to laboratory personnel and researchers on routine laboratory procedures, equipment use and laboratory protocols.
• Support the onboarding and technical orientation of researchers using the laboratory.
• Provide technical input to research proposals, grant applications and collaborations as requested.
• Support laboratory tours, technical demonstrations and engagement with visitors and stakeholders.

Qualifications and Experience

The ideal candidate will have:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biological Sciences or a related field.
• Practical experience in laboratory analysis, particularly DNA extraction, PCR and microscopy.
• Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) and molecular techniques will be an advantage.
• Experience working with research samples, laboratory equipment and quality management systems.
• Knowledge of laboratory biosafety, biosecurity, waste management and quality assurance requirements.
• Strong record-keeping, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively with researchers, students and other laboratory users.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards of laboratory quality and safety.

• Perform laboratory analysis using DNA, microscopy, PCR, NGS and other appropriate techniques based on research requirements.
• Support field sample collection, receipt, processing, storage and tracking of incoming samples.
• Prepare technical reports and support interpretation of results, escalating anomalies or technical concerns to the Laboratory Manager.
• Carry out routine equipment calibration, maintenance and decontamination in accordance with established schedules and procedures.
• Implement laboratory biosafety, biosecurity, waste management and decontamination procedures to maintain a safe working environment.
• Monitor laboratory consumables, prepare purchase requests and ensure appropriate storage and availability of supplies.
• Maintain accurate laboratory records, inventories, sample documentation and equipment records.
• Follow and support the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and the laboratory Quality Management System.
• Support internal audits, proficiency testing and accreditation assessments by maintaining accurate technical records and providing required documentation
• Provide technical guidance and training to laboratory personnel and researchers on routine laboratory procedures, equipment use and laboratory protocols.
• Support the onboarding and technical orientation of researchers using the laboratory.
• Provide technical input to research proposals, grant applications and collaborations as requested.
• Support laboratory tours, technical demonstrations and engagement with visitors and stakeholders.

• DNA extraction
• PCR
• microscopy
• next-generation sequencing (NGS)
• molecular techniques
• laboratory equipment
• quality management systems
• laboratory biosafety
• biosecurity
• waste management
• quality assurance
• record-keeping
• analytical skills
• problem-solving skills
• attention to detail

• A Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Biological Sciences or a related field.
• Practical experience in laboratory analysis, particularly DNA extraction, PCR and microscopy.
• Experience with next-generation sequencing (NGS) and molecular techniques will be an advantage.
• Experience working with research samples, laboratory equipment and quality management systems.
• Knowledge of laboratory biosafety, biosecurity, waste management and quality assurance requirements.
• Strong record-keeping, analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively with researchers, students and other laboratory users.
• Strong attention to detail and commitment to maintaining high standards of laboratory quality and safety.