Laboratory Associates 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.