Laboratory Program Specialist - Molecular Diagnosis at HIFASS

Basic Functions

• Under the direct supervision of the Laboratory Manager, 68 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital Yaba, incumbent will be responsible for providing support to the DODWRP-N - Nigerian Ministry of Defence (NMOD) President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief (PEPFAR) program.
• In particular, S/he will provide technical and scientific support, in line with Program’s mission through molecular diagnosis, PEPFAR program activities, data management and research protocol execution when necessary. These activities include HIV, HCV, HBV viral loads and HIV-1 Early Infant Diagnosis, as well as analyze and interpret the data obtained.

Essential Job Functions, Duties and Responsibilities

• RNA and DNA extraction of HIV, HCV, HBV, and STI pathogens and other organisms of program/research interest. - Nucleic acid based-PCR, detection and analysis of data/results.
• Internal quality control of the molecular assays and monitoring of the controls (e.g LJ charting)
• Validation and verification of molecular assays results
• Troubleshooting of failed assays
• Performing root cause analysis, remedial action, and corrective action
• Molecular Laboratory equipment maintenance according to schedule
• Participation in internal and EQA program
• Development, review and revision of all job related SOPs and aids
• CAP/ISO accreditation preparedness
• Adherence to good laboratory practice (GLP) and QA/QC/QMS
• Contribution to work of committees such as organization’s safety and or ethical review boards
• Preparation of budgets/quantification and supply orders
• Provision of monthly /regular updates of progress to PEPFAR Laboratory manager through the unit's head
• Responds to technical and logistical problems encountered in the laboratory in a timely and appropriate manner, including coordination of samples shipments from and to PEPFAR/Research sites
• Any other duties assigned by the PEPFAR Laboratory Program Manager through the Lab Manager, 68 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital Yaba
• Report Viral load and EID samples analyzed in the laboratory disaggregated by age, sex and level of viral suppression on a monthly basis.

Management and Relationships

• As directed by the PEPAFR Laboratory Program Manager, the post holder will report to the Laboratory Manager, 68 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital Yaba; and maintain a horizontal relationship with head molecular unit of Defense Reference Laboratory Abuja.
• Have line management responsibilities for some technical staff within the molecular unit of 68 Nigerian Army Reference Hospital Yaba
• Promote and support the implementation of relevant safety rules
• He/She will supervise a small team of technical staff within the molecular department.

Education and Experience

• Bachelor's degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences.
• Registered and licensed by the Medical Laboratory Science Council of Nigeria.
• Minimum of 3 years experience in molecular diagnosis of HIV/AIDS, Malaria, and TB
• Practical experience with TaqpMan 96 is an added advantage.

Skills/Abilities

• Management of integrated laboratory services.
• Experience in supervision of laboratory staff.
• Ability to train and mentor staff in laboratory detection and diagnosis of infectious diseases.
• Good understanding of laboratory military program and net-working.
• Knowledge of Internal and External Quality Control programs in laboratory services.
• Excellent computer skill (including laboratory information system)
• Ability to work as a part of a team, but self-managing of own time
• Excellent written and oral communication skills