Assistant Research Officer at KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP)

Vacancy: CGHR 93/07/19

Project description

This program is collaboration between Kenya Medical Research Institute and the Stanford University, California, USA whose main purpose is to conduct a research study titled “Disentangling the human vector relationship to disrupt dengue and chikungunya virus outbreaks in Kenya”. The section has a vacancy for an Assistant Research Officer (ARO).

Location: Kisian

Reporting to: Principal Investigator

Qualifications

• Bachelor degree in biomedical/biological science, microbiology or any science related course from a recognized institution.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• At least two years work experience in polymerase chain reaction (PCR) in a research set-up
• Experience in viral PCR work will be an added advantage.
• Strong hands-on experience in running a biomedical research laboratory.
• Strong supervisory and management skills.
• Strong data processing skills.
• Ability to work independently, in an organized and a timely manner and under minimum supervision.

Responsibilities

• The primary role of the ARO will be to test human blood samples for the presence of dengue and chikungunya viruses using real-time PCR in a research laboratory.
• Implement all laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Upload all laboratory data on online databases.
• Relay laboratory results promptly to field teams.
• Manage all laboratory equipment and field supplies.
• Participate in planning meetings and scheduled conference calls with other members of the study team.
• Coordinate and train students on attachment and internship assigned to the laboratory.
• Perform any other related duties that may be assigned from time to time.

Terms of Employment

One (1) year renewable contract as per KEMRI scheme of service and a probation period for the first 3 months.

Remuneration

The salary scheme is based on the KEMRI scales.