Careers at Mpala

About the Position

• 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.

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About the Position

• Mpala Research Centre is seeking to recruit a motivated, enthusiastic and technology-oriented IT Intern to support the Centre’s information technology operations.
• The IT Intern will gain practical experience in providing technical support to staff, maintaining IT equipment and systems, troubleshooting hardware and software issues and assist with the day-to-day administration of IT services. The role will work closely with staff across departments to ensure reliable and effective use of technology in support of Mpala’s research, conservation and administrative operations.

Key Responsibilities

• Assist in basic technical support and troubleshooting for computers, printers, software and other IT equipment.
• Assist with the installation and maintenance of network equipment.
• Support staff with basic software, connectivity and technology-related queries.
• Assist with deployment and setup of IoT hardware.
• Assist in the maintenance of IT assets inventory register.
• Assist in identity management and user access control tasks.
• Assist in data backup and recovery procedures.
• Assist in maintaining and updating IT documentation and user guides.
• Assist in operations control room activities.
• Perform any other duties relevant to the IT function as assigned by the supervisor.

Qualifications & Experience

• Diploma or bachelor’s degree in information technology, Computer Science, Information Systems, or a closely related field.
• Basic knowledge of computer hardware & software.
• Basic knowledge in wired and wireless networks.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications.
• Good problem-solving and analytical skills.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills.
• Willingness to learn and work in a team to develop practical IT skills.

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About the Position

• Mpala Research Centre is seeking an experienced and dynamic Laboratory Manager to lead the effective, quality-driven and commercially sustainable operation of its laboratory facilities.
• The Laboratory Manager will be responsible for ensuring high standards of laboratory operations, quality assurance, researcher support and staff management, while developing the laboratory into a service-oriented and revenue-generating facility for researchers, academic institutions, government agencies, NGOs and private-sector clients

Key Responsibilities

Laboratory Operations & Technical Leadership

• Lead the day-to-day operation of the laboratory, ensuring efficient use of facilities, equipment and resources.
• Supervise, mentor and develop laboratory staff and coordinate work planning, training and performance.
• Coordinate access and support for researchers, students, visiting scientists and external laboratory users.
• Ensure laboratory safety, protocols and operational procedures are consistently followed.

Business Development & Resource Mobilization

• Develop and grow laboratory services for researchers, universities, government agencies, NGOs and private-sector clients.
• Identify opportunities for fee-for-service testing, contract research, technical training, consultancy and other revenue-generating services.
• Build strategic partnerships and support grant and funding proposals for laboratory infrastructure, equipment and capacity development.
• Monitor service uptake, client satisfaction and revenue performance and recommend improvements to strengthen the laboratory’s sustainability.

Quality, Compliance & Continuous Improvement

• Lead and maintain the laboratory Quality Management System in line with ISO 17025 or other relevant standards.
• Ensure SOPs, quality controls, audits, proficiency testing and corrective actions are effectively managed.
• Promote a culture of quality, safety, compliance and continuous improvement across the laboratory.
• Ensure laboratory activities comply with relevant research, regulatory and institutional requirements.

Stakeholder Engagement & Reporting

• Build effective relationships with researchers, research institutions, clients, funders and other laboratory partners.
• Represent the laboratory in relevant institutional meetings, stakeholder engagements and professional forums.
• Coordinate with Research Compliance and Administration on research approvals, material transfer agreements and other requirements affecting laboratory activities.
• Prepare regular operational, quality, financial and performance reports for senior leadership.

Qualifications

The ideal candidate will have:

• A Bachelor’s degree, Master’s degree (Added Advantage) in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Life Sciences or a related field.
• Proven experience managing a research, analytical, diagnostic or similar laboratory.
• Strong knowledge of laboratory quality management systems, with experience in ISO 17025 or a comparable standard.
• Experience supervising technical teams and managing laboratory operations, equipment and resources.
• Experience in business development, resource mobilization, grant development or developing laboratory services will be an advantage.
• Strong communication, stakeholder management and relationship-building skills.
• A practical, commercially aware and solutions-oriented approach to laboratory management.