Lab Technologist (Molecular Biology and Biotechnology Department)

ABOUT THE COMPANY

The Pan African University Institute for Basic Sciences, technology and Innovation (PAUSTI) prides itself as a postgraduate hub of research and innovation featuring a highly diverse faculty, and students drawn from whole of Africa.
PAUSTI which is hosted at Jomo Kenyatta University of Agriculture and Technology in Nairobi, Kenya, opened its doors to the pioneer students in November 2012. The inaugural cohort graduated in record time in November 2014.
The Institute is mandated to produce leaders and innovators in the fields of Mathematics, Molecular Biology and Biotechnology; Civil Engineering; Mechanical Engineering; Mechatronic Engineering and Electrical Engineering.

JOB SUMMARY

PAUSTI is seeking to engage the services of Laboratory Technologist Individual Service Provider contractfor a period of Twelve (12) months renewable, based on availability of funding and satisfactoryperformance.Qualifications- Diploma Degree in Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biomedical Sciences, LaboratorySciences, or Bio Chemistry. A Bachelor of Arts (BA) degree will be considered an addedadvantage.General Work Experience- Minimum of 3 years of experience in a molecular biology laboratory.- Previous working experience in African Union working environment and higher educational institutionwill have an added advantage- Experience in an academic or research environment is preferred.Skills & Competences-Strong knowledge of molecular laboratory techniques and bio safety procedures.- Good organizational and inventory management skills.- Ability to maintain high standards of laboratory quality control.- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.- Good communication and reporting skills.Language Requirement:- Fluency in spoken and written English is required. Knowledge of other working languages (French, Portuguese, and Kiswahili & Arabic) of the African Union is an added advantage.

RESPONSIBILITIES

- Maintain an updated inventory of laboratory supplies including enzymes, primers, buffers, reagents,kits, chemicals, and consumables.- Monitor stock levels of molecular-grade reagents and initiate timely procurement requests.- Ensure proper storage conditions (e.g., -20°C, -80°C, cold room, desiccators) for sensitive materials.- Maintain proper labeling and documentation of reagents, samples, and consumables.- Perform regular maintenance checks for laboratory instruments and equipment- Ensure calibration and preventive maintenance of equipment.- Maintain equipment logbooks and service records.- Prepare regular reports on equipment status, servicing, and repair needs.- Coordinate with service providers and suppliers for repairs and technical support..- Prepare general and specialized reagents for molecular biology practical sessions.- Ensure standardization and quality control of prepared reagents.- Set up laboratory practical sessions for students..- Ensure availability of materials and equipment prior to scheduled practical sessions.- Maintain cleanliness and orderliness of the molecular laboratory at all times- Ensure strict adherence to bio safety and bio security guidelines.- Implement Good Laboratory Practices (GLP).- Ensure proper segregation and disposal of biological and chemical waste.- Ensure safe handling of nucleic acids, microorganisms, and hazardous reagents.- Monitor environmental conditions such as temperature and contamination control.- Assist students during laboratory practical sessions.- Assist in troubleshooting experimental challenges- Liaise with the Programme Coordinator to specify laboratory requirements for the Molecular Biology Programme- Provide input in budgeting for laboratory reagents, equipment upgrades, and maintenance.- Prepare periodic reports on Equipment condition and servicing status, Inventory and stock levels, Laboratory utilization & Safety and compliance matters- Maintain proper documentation of laboratory procedures and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).- Perform any other duties as assigned by the Director

REQUIRED SKILLS

Specimen collection, Safety systems, Compliance, Quality management, Laboratory operation, Operations planning

REQUIRED EDUCATION

Diploma, Associate's degree