Reference Number: ARO230818
Employment Type: Full time
Category: Clinical Healthcare and Research
Job Grade: 6.01
Country: Kenya
Location: Kilifi
JOB PURPOSE:
To work in an exciting project within the CHAIN Immunology Sub-study looking at Neutrophil Cell Function. The successful candidate will be expected to steer the project; to contribute to all related research activities including literature review, project development, laboratory experimentation, data analysis & data reporting.
Description:
REPORTS TO:
- Immunology Post-doc.
- Project Manager.
- Principal Investigator.
DIRECTLY SUPERVISES:
- None
INDIRECTLY SUPERVISES:
- None
BUDGET AND RESOURCE RESPONSIBILITY:
- Ordering and keeping track of all laboratory supplies and reagents related to the project.
JOB DIMENSIONS: The Childhood Acute Illness and Nutrition Network (CHAIN) Immunology Sub-study. CHAIN is a multi-site prospective cohort study network which aims to understand the risk factors and mechanisms related to increased mortality (inpatient and post-discharge) in vulnerable children. The Immunology Sub-study within CHAIN will assess the longitudinal profiles of different immune parameters during hospitalisation and after nutritional rehabilitation.
The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the post-doc assigned to the Neutrophil study to develop the project idea and conduct laboratory work. The work will involve a substantial amount of biological sample processing, experimentation, data analysis and reporting.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Carry out literature reviews and prepare/ draft write-ups related to the project and other reviews that may be required for inclusion in proposals, seminars and publications.
- Participate in execution of project objectives including protocol development, set up and validation of experimental assays, identifying resource requirements and keeping track of reagent orders and consumption
- Work with the Principal Investigator and other relevant staff to prepare research plans in liaison with other teams such as clinical services and field workers.
- Participate in the reception, processing, organisation and archiving of study samples and ensure all related records and reports are handled and managed in line with study protocols.
- Liase with the data and statistical team to ensure that all data related to the project are accurate, complete and up to date.
- Carry out data analysis and interpretation and provide relevant matrices/ information including statistical summaries, charts, graphs, reports etc.
- Participate in tracking use of project funds through liason with the purchasing team and the operations officer.
- Prepare and submit draft reports as required including activity reports, project progress reports.
- Regularly attend and present at Institute Journal Clubs and seminars when called upon.
- And any other duties that may be assigned from time to time.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- A BSc degree in Biological Sciences or equivalent
- At least 1 year experience with laboratory based research in Immunology or a relevant Biomedical field
- Prior experience with Flow Cytometry and tissue Culture will be an added advantage
- Computer literacy: Proficiency in Microsoft or Mac-OS Applications
COMPETENCIES:
- Excellent planning, organisation and co-ordination skills
- Ability to take initiative, be proactive and work with minimal supervision
- Confidentiality, integrity and attention to detail
- Good Analytical and Presentation Skills
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
- Training and accreditation in Good Clinical & Laboratory Practice and a clear understanding of GCLP requirements
PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT/CONDITIONS:
- Based at the KEMRI/Wellcome Trust Research Programme in Kilifi, Kenya.
- Be available to work out of hours and on weekends when necessary.
- Exposure to materials considered infectious and/or biohazards.