Senior Technical Associate (Molecular Services) at AIDS Prevention Initiative in Nigeria (APIN)

Job Task:

• This position will report to the Molecular Lead and will coordinate all molecular activities in FMC Makurdi PCR Laboratory, Benue state.
• S/She person will supervise molecular laboratory personnel, and regularly assess their performance and productivity to ensure VL/IVT testing is optimized.
• The person will oversee specimen analysis, re-routing of specimens commodity and equipment management.  S/He will work with all facilities in the state linked to the PCR Laboratory to ensure adherence to guidelines for sample management.
• S/He will oversee remote sample login and return of results to facilities.

Other duties

• Manage and supervise the delivery of quality molecular services for HIV-VL, EID at FMC Makurdi PCR laboratory.
• Oversee all laboratory procedures and analysis of clinical samples by molecular biology methods
• Oversee data analysis, assay result interpretation, and proper maintenance and management of laboratory records
• Oversee quality control/quality assurance activities, as well as reagent lot validation and inventory management
• Will assist in the ordering of laboratory supplies to maintain proper inventory
• Ensure staff demonstrate competency with pipetting and PCR techniques while performing complex molecular diagnostic techniques
• Ensure routine preventative maintenance is performed on all molecular diagnostic and ancillary equipment
• Ensure all molecular diagnostic protocols are followed and implemented
• Follow up with daily reports on all lab tests
• Follow up with feedback to Biomedical Engineers on equipment breakdown
• Oversee Proficiency Testing at PCR labs and follow up with corrective actions
• Monitor sample management and quality of samples received at the PCR Lab for testing
• Follow up with proper storage of specimens for short and long term
• Follow up with LIMS compliance network ,accurate computer data entry, and upload of patients’ results to NDR
• Will ensure all laboratory procedures are performed in a timely manner
• Plan re-routing of samples to a secondary PCR Lab for testing, in the event of delay in testing due to power failure or equipment breakdown
• Provide guidance and will fully be involved in the procedures for PCR Lab accreditation.

Qualifications and Experience:

• Must be a Medical laboratory Scientist or possess a degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences; 
• Must have a minimum of five (5) years’ professional experience in Molecular Diagnostics;
• Experience working with a PEPFAR supported organization is an advantage;
• Demonstrable knowledge of Microsoft office applications, as well good understanding of LIMS applications;
• Strong attention to detail and ability to learn quickly
• Ability to work alone and as part of the team
• Ability to multitask, manage time efficiently, negotiate and meet deadlines
• Highly motivated, energetic self-starter who can think and act self-sufficiently