Laboratory Scientist – Molecular Genetics Laboratory at The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE)

Job Purpose

• The Laboratory Scientist, Molecular Genetics Laboratory will be responsible for providing a comprehensive range of molecular investigations to support the diagnosis, prognosis, and monitoring of haematological and solid tumours as well as cardiac pathologies.  The role holder will work closely with multidisciplinary clinical teams and allied diagnostic laboratories to deliver high-quality molecular testing using a variety of advanced platforms.
• He/ She will participate in all stages of the diagnostic workflow—from sample receipt to result reporting—while contributing to quality assurance, service development, and the laboratory’s commitment to excellence.

Key Accountabilities/Responsibilities

Technical and Scientific

• Perform specialised molecular diagnostic techniques, including:
• Real-time PCR for measurable residual disease (MRD)
• Fragment length analysis for post-transplant chimerism
• Mutation analysis (e.g., FLT3, NPM1)
• Digital droplet PCR and Next Generation Sequencing (NGS)
• Operate and maintain automated platforms (e.g., liquid handling robots).
• Prepare and analyse molecular data, drafting diagnostic reports.
• Support assay development, validation, and SOP updates.
• Participate in sample processing, reagent preparation, and training junior staff.

Laboratory Informatics

• Proficiently use LIMS and clinical databases, ensuring data integrity and compliance.
• Maintain patient confidentiality in line with GDPR and national policies.
• Communication and Teamwork
• Communicate effectively within the laboratory and with external stakeholders, including suppliers and support services.
• Foster a professional and collaborative working environment.
• Promote effective teamwork and mutual respect across all staff levels.

Quality and Governance

• Adhere to standards required for appropriate accreditation and contribute to the maintenance and improvement of the Quality Management System.
• Participate in internal and external audits, document non-conformances, and support service improvements.
• Uphold the highest levels of patient confidentiality and data protection compliance (GDPR, National Policies).

Health and Safety / Risk Management

• Ensure safe working practices in accordance with laboratory health and safety policies.
• Take personal responsibility for the wellbeing of colleagues and visitors within the laboratory.
• Comply with PPE usage, waste disposal, and incident reporting protocols.

Educational Requirements, Skills and Competences

• BSc Hons Biomedical Sciences or equivalent.
• Experience in routine molecular diagnostic laboratory including DNA and RNA extraction, automated sample handing systems, RT-PCR, fragment analysis
• Practical and/or sound theoretical knowledge of Next Generation Sequencing or microarray karyotyping.
• Experience of Laboratory Information Systems.
• Experience of troubleshooting laboratory processes and investigating non-conformances.
• Knowledge and understanding of health and safety in a diagnostic laboratory setting.
• Must have worked in a cancer molecular diagnostic laboratory.
• Experienced in using the Ion Torrent system.
• Competency in the interpretation and technical validation of results.
• Knowledge of Quality Management, Quality Control and Assurance
• Familiar with haematological/solid neoplasms, with knowledge of the genes and molecular markers which are routinely tested for and monitored.