Assistant Research Officer - 2 Positions at Kenya Medical Research - KEMRI

Vacancy No. CVDC/007/12/22

Position summary

The candidate will work with a team of senior entomologists and will oversee field workers, including entomological collections in the field, bioassay using field collections mosquitoes and support whenever need laboratory and insectary-based activities.

Job Specification

• Follow and ensure proper compliance with protocol procedures and institutional guidelines.
• Attend all required trainings and ensure activities are carried out in accordance to guidance from senior field entomologist.
• Support the drafting of SOPs, operations manuals, quality assurance documentation, training materials and others.
• Train, guide and supervise field workers in the field and laboratory.
• Assist in planning, organizing and undertaking of field and laboratory activities.
• Perform sample collection, processing, preservation, storage, shipment and maintenance of study documentation and records.
• Manage and monitor equipment, reagents, consumables and other resources needed for research activities.
• Oversee data entry and data cleaning in timely manner.
• Assist with other activities if required.

Person Specification

• Bachelor degree in any area of biological sciences with preference for fields related to medical entomology.

Key Skills and Competencies

• At least 12 months previous field experience and/or insectary experience working with mosquitoes.
• Knowledge of mosquito morphology, biology and ecology.
• Knowledge in mosquito taxonomy, dissection procedures and other bio-assays is highly desirable.
• Good technical writing skills.
• Good critical thinking skills and interest in science.
• Excellent team player and willingness to work odd hours including early mornings, and late evenings.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Willingness to live in rural Kwale.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills, high degree of integrity, cultural sensitivity.
• Previous experience working in Kwale and knowledge of a Mijikenda language is desirable