Blood Bank/Donor Clinic Scientist at The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE)

Job Purpose

• The Blood Bank/Donor Clinic Scientist will be a vital member of our clinical laboratory team, responsible for providing specialized and high-quality services in immunohematology and transfusion medicine. The role holder will ensure the safety, compatibility, and timely provision of blood and blood products for patient care. Additionally, the scientist will manage donor clinic operations, ensuring a positive donor experience and adherence to the highest standards of safety and regulatory compliance. 

Key Accountabilities/Responsibilities

Technical and Diagnostic Services 

• Perform and interpret complex blood bank procedures including ABO/ Rh typing, antibody screening and identification, and crossmatching.
• Issue compatible blood and blood products (e.g., red cells, plasma, platelets) for transfusion in emergency and routine situations.
• Investigate and resolve serological problems and transfusion reactions.
• Operate and maintain specialized laboratory equipment and the Blood Bank Information Management System.

Donor Clinic Management 

• Manage the daily operations of the donor clinic, including whole blood, apheresis, and therapeutic donor procedures.
• Screen potential donors for suitability based on medical history and vital signs, ensuring donor and recipient safety.
• Perform phlebotomy and apheresis procedures with expertise and care.
• Ensure a positive, professional, and reassuring experience for all | blood donors.
• Quality Assurance and Compliance 
• Strictly adhere to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and protocols for all technical and donor-related activities.
• Implement and monitor quality control, quality assurance, and proficiency testing programs in line with AABB, ISO, or other international standards.
• Ensure meticulous record-keeping for full traceability of all blood products from donor to recipient.
• Maintain compliance with national and international regulatory requirements and hospital safety policies.

Collaboration and Communication 

• Collaborate closely with physicians, nurses, and other healthcare professionals to provide expert advice on transfusion therapy and product selection.
• Participate in hospital transfusion committee meetings and quality improvement initiatives.
• Provide technical guidance and training to junior laboratory staff and new hires.

Qualifications

• Bachelor of Science (B.Sc.) or Master’s degree (M.Sc.) in Medical Laboratory Science, Hematology, Immunohematology, or a related field from a recognized institution.
• Valid professional license/certification to practice as a Medical Laboratory Scientist
• Specialist certification in Blood Banking (SBB) or equivalent is highly desirable.

Experience

• Minimum of 3-5 years of hands-on experience in a clinical blood bank or transfusion service setting.
• Proven experience in donor phlebotomy and donor clinic management.
• In-depth knowledge of immunohematology principles, transfusion practices, and blood-borne pathogen safety.
• ·       Proficiency in using laboratory information systems (LIS) and blood bank management software.