Laboratory Associates - Lagos / Kaduna at KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation

Purpose of the job

• The laboratory Associate will work with the Drug Resistant Survey (DRS) Coordinator to facilitate prompt processing of DRS samples at the lab. He/she oversees the pre-analytical, analytical, and post-analytical stages of the testing process and provides support and guidance to the survey staff at the culture laboratories to ensure timely release of quality results. 

Key performance Deliverables:

• Support isolate shipment at all levels including shipment from culture laboratories and the supranational laboratory in Milan.
• Coordinate the testing process at the laboratory to ensure seamless integration of the survey process into the laboratory workflow.
• Perform culture on DRS isolates, identification of strains and LPA where applicable, and document and transmit results according to survey methodology.
• Perform phenotypic and genotypic DST on isolates received from culture laboratories.
• Lead, support, or participate in all capacity-building initiatives and workshops on test procedures and data management.
• Ensure accurate utilization of survey instrumentation and methodologies for sample processing, documentation, and reporting of data at the survey site.
• Conduct routine internal quality control and ensure the reported DRS results are accurate and reliable.
• Work with the Survey Coordinator and team to identify process improvement opportunities, propose system modifications, and implement laboratory quality improvement strategies.
• Perform routine result validation to assess the quality and completeness of reported/transmitted results.
• Ensure timely and accurate reporting/transmission of survey data, resolving and fixing data errors and related data issues in line with the DRS data system’s SOP.
• Work with the Survey Coordinator to monitor survey implementation in line with the overall DRS plan.
• Perform other additional duties as assigned.

Requirements

• At least a degree in Medical Laboratory science or Technology or other relevant fields.
• At least 3 years of experience working in a TB Reference laboratory. Experience working on culture, LPA and DST bench will be considered.
• Experience working with database platforms such as kobocollect, DHIS etc is an added advantage.
• Experience managing related databases such as surveys, rapid assessments, situational analysis, and other research types.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, approachable and good listener.
• Exhibits high level of accuracy in work, and ability to analyze complex sets of relationships and situations.
• Ability to work on own initiative, prioritize work, and handle pressure.

What do we offer?

• A full-time (40 hours per week) fixed-term contract for a year, with the intention of extending the contract depending on funding and performance.
• An informal work atmosphere in an international environment where initiative is appreciated.
• A highly motivated team of experienced, self-driven colleagues.
• The salary is dependent upon education and relevant working experience.
• KNCV Nigeria has its own Employment Conditions Scheme.