Assistant Research Officer -Genomics and Bioinformatics at Kenya Medical Research - KEMRI

Key Responsibilities:

• Optimize and troubleshoot diagnostics and genome sequencing protocols for a range of pathogens of public health importance.
• Assemble pathogen genomes derived from next generation sequencers based on targeted or metagenomics methods.
• Undertake phylogenetic analyses, produce reports and leading writing of new scientific manuscripts.
• Develop and maintain SOPs, Laboratory Analytical Plans and sample management.
• Run laboratory assays as per the developed SOPS and protocols.
• Receive, process and store samples according to set SOPS.
• Establish and maintain a clean database for collected samples.
• Organise sample shipment to collaborating institutes and labs where applicable.
• Compile and analyses data collected from laboratory assays.
• Comply with all laid down Quality Management System (QMS) guidelines/ standards/ SOPs.
• Comply with all health and safety guidelines; and
• Participate in assigned activities including journal clubs and seminars.

Vacancy Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in biotechnology or molecular biology.    Mandatory
• Basic knowledge of bioinformatics and or computational data analysis    Mandatory
• Experience in bioinformatics methods including genome assembly of virus or bacterial genomes    Mandatory
• Minimum 4 years’ experience and out of which at least one (1) year should be at supervisory level.    Mandatory
• Excellent presentation and communication skills    Desirable
• Excellent organizational skills    Desirable 
• Demonstrate high levels of integrity and confidentiality    Skills & Competencies
• Basic analytical, problem solving and critical thinking skills.    Skills & Competencies
• Team working and ability to work in diverse teams    Skills & Competencies
• Flexibility, adaptability, multi-tasking and attention to detail    Skills & Competencies