Research Officer – Sequencing
Reference Number: ROSEQ040118
Category: Clinical Healthcare and Research
Grade: 7.01
Location: Kilifi
Country: Kenya
Summary:
JOB PURPOSE:Operate and oversee the programmes Next Gen Sequencing Facility. Manage and maintain the malaria qPCR service.Coordinate a Sanger sequencing service with 3rd party providers.
REPORTS TO:
- Head of Laboratories Services & Biobank Fellow
DIRECTLY SUPERVISES:
- Assistant Research Officers.
- Interns, students.
INDIRECTLY SUPERVISES:
- None
BUDGET AND RESOURCE RESPONSIBILITY:
- Manage all stocks of consumables and reagents for 1,2 & 3 above.
- Provide timely budget reports and invoicing for services provided.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Coordination, operation and maintenance of the Next Generation Sequencing facility and Malaria qPCR service.
- Maintain a robust stock control and grant billing system to ensure stock-outs are minimised and budgets remain balanced.
- Ensure all equipment are fully maintained and operational.
- Work closely with senior scientists to develop sequencing assays.
- Develop and maintain SOPs and other controlled documentation.
- Maintain clear and accurate records and results.
- Coordinate a Sanger sequencing service with 3rd party providers, including sample shipment and payments.
- Provide a clean and safe working environment for laboratory staff.
- Monitor and maintain relevant GCLP procedures and standards in order to deliver a quality service at all times.
QUALIFICATIONS:
- A laboratory based MSc in a relevant subject, e.g. Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, Molecular biology, evolution, genetics.
- At least 3 years of research experience in a Medical Research Laboratory.
- Knowledge of GCLPs, QMS and other relevant best practices and standards.
- Knowledge and experience of implementing, operating and maintaining Quality Assurance & Quality Control systems including; Internal Quality Control and External Quality Assurance (EQA) Schemes
- Computer literacy with proficiency in Microsoft applications and Bioinformatics software.
COMPETENCIES:
- Significant hands-on experience in Next Generation Sequencing, particularly utilising the Illumina MiSeq platform.
- Significant experience in performing quantitative PCR assays.
- Strong budgeting and stock management skills.
- Experience in troubleshooting molecular assays and equipment and working with Service Providers, when required, to provide rapid solutions that ensure minimum downtime.
- Ability to work with minimal supervision.
- Conscientiousness, timeliness and willingness to work to meet deadlines
- Confidentiality and integrity
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills
