Assistant Research Officer at University of Maryland

Job Summary

Under the supervision of the respective laboratory managers/supervisors, the laboratory technologists will support molecular and immunology work related to HIV including routine laboratory maintenance duties.

PRIMARY RESPONSIBILITIES:

· Perform all aspects of HIV viral load/EID laboratory testing work necessary to support diagnosis and Patient monitoring on Roche CAP/CTM; Abbott M2000 and Roche C8800       platforms

· Perform all aspects of CD4 T-Lymphocyte cell count of HIV infected individuals blood using the BD FACS Calibur platform

· Ensure adequate stock of reagents and other consumables are available and track usage

· Maintain laboratory QC/QA in the performance of assigned duties

· Record test results obtained in an organized and timely manner and write summary reports

· Document all problems encountered with samples/equipment and forward them for action

· Observe at all times GCP/GCLP to ensure quality work is attained

· Facilitate PT testing and other EQA schemes as recommended by the quality assurance officer

· Support validation of new HIV testing protocols or platforms

· Contributing to program monitoring and evaluation

· Support the laboratory in achieving and maintaining ISO 15189:2012 accreditation for medical laboratories

· Ensure proper operational procedures and laboratory safety precautions are maintained and adhered to in the laboratory

Qualifications:

The ideal candidate should have:

• Experience in carrying out basic PCR testing for HIV Diagnosis or Viral Load Testing, and CD4 enumeration technology

• Understanding of molecular testing in relation to key HIV/TB tests

• Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists Board (KMLTTB) certification is an added advantage

· Eloquent communication (oral and written).

• Good organizational skills.
• Sound interpersonal and liaison skills as well as a team player.
• Pleasant personality, flexibility, team player, ability to solve problems, work with minimal supervision.