Laboratory Technician at Abt Associates

Project Description 

The PMI Evolve Project supports the U.S. President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI) and USAID to plan and implement an integrated vector control strategy with the overall goal of reducing the burden of malaria while promoting equity to sustain malaria gains. Abt has implemented integrated vector control for PMI since 2011, delivering high-quality indoor residual spraying (IRS), technical assistance for insecticide-treated net (ITN) distribution and durability monitoring, and new approaches for larval source management (LSM). Additionally, Abt’s PMI-funded work manages the most comprehensive malaria vector entomological surveillance programs in 21 African countries to inform malaria vector control trends, strategies, and impact. Under the PMI Evolve Project, Abt will further its delivery of integrated vector control programs by partnering with local communities, organizations, and governments to co-design and co-implement tailored malaria vector control programs. The end goal is fighting malaria while strengthening local capacity to sustain malaria gains. 

Core Responsibilities 

• Support selection, registration in central database and labeling of mosquito samples for lab analysis, when required. 
• Conduct dissections required for pre-processing of samples.
• Execute laboratory testing according to standard procedures, including the preparation of reagents and laboratory calculations. 
• Observe and interpret results, troubleshoot inconclusive findings, and determine next steps required.
• Maintain daily record of laboratory activities in a laboratory notebook, including all protocol details and raw data collected. 
• Support and conduct entomology field work
• Maintain good organization of samples
• Record all data and results in specified forms (paper and electronic) with accuracy and responsibility
• Maintain equipment and local supply inventory, providing assistance in ordering laboratory supplies when required. 
• Communicate progress and problems to supervisor via email/phone, in meetings and in reports, depending on the urgency and scope. 
• Maintain all chemicals substances, fluids, and samples according to appropriate safety instructions and storage conditions. 
• Ensure that all safety guidelines are followed strictly at all times and maintain a clean and orderly environment
• Other duties as assigned

What We Value 

Minimum Qualifications 

• Bachelor’s Degree + 5 years or Master + 3 years or PhD + zero years

Preferred Experience

• Bachelor’s degree in laboratory technology, biology, chemistry, or relevant field.
• At least 5 years’ experience as Lab Technician or relevant position.
• Proven experience in conventional PCR and ELISA techniques required, experience in quantitative PCR and sequencing techniques highly desirable.
• Experience in operating electrical and nonelectrical laboratory equipment and potentially dangerous substances (flammable liquids, infectious bacteria, biohazards etc.).
• Attention to detail and excellent problem-solving skills
• Willingness to maintain highly organized data records, learn quickly, and transfer knowledge to others through mentorship and documentation.
• Working knowledge of MS Office (especially Excel) and database systems.
• Fluency in English.