Laboratory Assistant

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT

INTRODUCTION

The Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Clinical Research Programme (MLW)  is an internationally recognised Centre for research and research training, affiliated to the Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS). MLW has 2 aims, to conduct excellent research to benefit health and train the next generation of researcher. Our Blantyre based offices located within the vicinity of the largest hospital in Malawi, Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH) provide for the optimum research environment.

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It was established in 1995 and became a Wellcome Africa and Asia Program (AAP) in 2003. MLW has established itself as an internationally recognised Centre for research excellence and research training. The current structure supports 16 locally led research groups each of which have translational targets and a pipeline of trainees to develop their strategy, grant funding and clinical impact.  Research is described best in 6 Themes – Infection Biology; Vaccines; Maternal Neonatal and Child Health; Social Science; Clinical and Experimental Medicine; Population Health.

JOB SUMMARY:

The Laboratory Assistant will mainly be required (but not limited) to execute and support hands-on activities such involved in media preparation and laboratory maintenance. Furthermore, the individual will produce batch production records and other associated reports utilizing established standard operating procedures and formats. S/he will also be involved in running media controls in addition cleaning glassware.  They will also occasionally be assigned to assist in other activities within the laboratory.

GENERAL TASKS

Quality Assurance and Improvement

• To be familiar with, and adhere to, the ISO 15189:2012, Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and Good Laboratory Clinical Practice (GCLP)regulations, MLW Laboratory Quality Management Policy, Quality Management System, and all associated documents and requirements.
• Participates in QC/QI for area of speciality and Lab indicators. Recognizes non-conformances, takes corrective action, and notifies others as required.
• To carry out relevant lab activities in accordance with approved standard operating procedures (SOPs) as set out either by the Head of Department, Lab Management Team, or Principal Investigator (PI).

Documentation

• Responsible for honestly and accurately completion of records, reports and other statistical information for master files.
• Follows laboratory policy for data retrieval, record keeping, specimen identification, requisition, reporting, and charting procedures to ensure that records are kept in compliance with GCP and ISO15189:2012

 Communication

• To be active in all areas relating to communication, including actively engaging with feedback processes, including surveys, to ensure continual improvement of the laboratory.
• Uses positive interpersonal skills to educate/support lab customers and promote success of team members.
• Uses clear and concise verbal and written communication with staff and the public.

 Health & Safety

• To follow safe practice, always respecting the safety of fellow workers as laid out in the MLW Health and Safety Guidelines, and any specific departmental safety protocols.
• To ensure that all areas of the laboratory section are kept clean and tidy by implementing a routine cleaning and disinfection schedule as instructed.
• To attend at least once a year, the quarterly scheduled Health and Safety sensitizations.
• To immediately notify the Line Manager of all accidents, and potential hazards.

 Training

• To attend all laboratory training sessions and to assist in the training of new staff/students as appropriate.

QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE

• Certificate in Laboratory Technology
• Previous experience is desirable but not essential.

KEY COMPENTENCIES/ATTRIBUTES AND SKILLS

• Experience with main IT platforms (outlook, word, excel, etc)
• Critical thinking and problem-solving skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills

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Remuneration and Benefits

MLW offers an attractive remuneration package which includes a competitive salary package commensurate with the position, a medical aid scheme, 24 hours insurance cover, pension scheme, gratuity benefits redeemable once every year, among others. MLW also offers opportunities such as scholarships, upgrading and training opportunities to employees. These are based on successful job performance and other set criteria.

MLW recognizes its responsibility in safeguarding and protecting communities, research participants and patients. Please note that successful candidates will be requested to undergo a safeguarding check prior to appointment and at regular time points during employment.

Suitably qualified candidates should forward their applications with copies of relevant certificates, 3 contactable referees and a detailed CV to this email vacancies@mlw.mw. Please indicate the position title as the heading of your email. Hand-delivered applications will not be processed. To arrive no later than the 22^nd December 2022, only short-listed candidates will be acknowledged.