Molecular Biologist

Terms of employment: Contract

Duration of contract: Six months with the possibility of extension

Work Place: Ethiopian Public Health Institute National Influenza Center

Reporting to: National Influenza Center case team lead

Number required: One (1)

Job Summary

As part of strengthening and improving respiratory viral surveillance activities, EPHI would like to recruit a skilled and competent molecular biology expert. The Molecular biologist position is an expert role within the NIC that will be entrusted with the overall responsibility of performing complex technical work involving human respiratory samples analysis using different molecular techniques. The role holder will be accountable to conduct RNA/DNA extraction from biological samples, optimization of qPCR prime/probe assays, troubleshooting of multiplex PCR, testing COVID-19, working with qPCR software setup, preparing molecular laboratory protocols, analyzing and interpreting of qPCR data.

Specific duties and responsibilities

• Extract, denature and purify RNA from assorted specimen types both manual and automated extraction methods.
• Prepare or customize the standard Operating procedure (SOP) for specimen collection, handling, transportation, and storage.
• Perform quality control, validation, and other quality activities to verify performance of qPCR assays.
• Perform COVID-19 tests and other respiratory viruses by PCR and other method.
• Maintain equipment by performing assigned maintenance activities and troubleshoot unexpected problems with equipment.
• Record data to monitor temperatures of incubation equipment and freezers/refrigerators
• Support and facilitate inventory of supplies and reagents and communicate order needs
• Maintain records of test results and archives of data
• Maintain a neat and clean work environment
• Perform proficiency testing to maintain compliance with regulatory international and national agencies
• Follow laboratory policies and procedures
• Prepare laboratory supplies and equipment need/plans for laboratory and field work and follow up the national and international procurement
• Development and standardization of guidelines/SOPs/case definitions/reporting formats/brushes/leaflets
• Participate in conducting timely outbreak investigation and response with PHEM staffs as needed
• Follow up and support SARI/ILI sites and report to next level.
• Deliver other task deemed necessary to achieve the objectives of the annual plan of the team assigned by laboratory coordinator and team lead.

Job Requirements

• A Master’s degree in the field of diagnostic and public health microbiology, molecular biology, biotechnology, or other directly related biomedical sciences with medical laboratory technology background is required.
• Minimum of eight years of relevant work experience with at least one year of work related to molecular techniques. Molecular laboratory experience with covid-19 experience is also preferred.
• Demonstrated expertise in molecular testing activities such as conventional PCR, real-time PCR, and multiplex PCR as well.
• Effective in communication, multi-tasking, organizational, and prioritization skills.

How to Apply

Note  Interested applicants can register Online through only  ethiojobs.net   send their CVs and relevant documents to the address given below within 10 working days from the first appearance of the announcement

Remarks: Please attach copies of transcripts, academic degrees, or recommendation letters together with the application. If not attached the copies you may be not shortlisted.