MEDICAL RESEARCH COUNCIL UNIT, THE GAMBIA ADVERTISEMENT SENIOR SCIENTIFIC OFFICER

(MRC Keneba Field Station)

The Keneba field station has carried out nutritional research in Keneba village and the surrounding village for over 50 years the Permanent research station and clinic provides antenatal, mother-day-baby clinics, dietary supplementation and general medical clinics. There are a team of local and international scientist and research clinicians all engaged in their own research projects, and a team of medical doctors midwives, nurses, laboratory technicians, field workers, data-entry clerks and administrative staff, all supporting the keneba research programme and clinic facility. Data from the clinics, research projects biobank and demographic surveillance systems are all maintained in single integrated database system.

The keneba Field Station is seeking to appoint a Senior Scientific Officer to conduct and manage research activities in the Calcium, Vitamin D and Bone Health (CDBH) group. The CDBH group conduct studies across the life course and aims to identify the role of diet and lifestyle in bone health and the prevention of osteoporosis and rickets. The post-holder will contribute directly to the research and strategy of the group. The focus of research will be determined by the experience of the successful applicant and is likely to include studies of local people that require physiological measures, laboratory assays and data analysis. She/he is also responsible for aspects of the management, co-ordination and smooth-running of the work of CDBH at MRC keneba.

We seek someone with:

1.      Essential

Ø    A PhD or equivalent in an area relevant to CDBH research

Ø    A minimum of one year post-doctorial experience

Ø    At least 4 years research and/or other experience (including PhD) in a relevant area to                 CDBH

Ø    Ability to supervise staff, ensuring that high standards are maintained at all times

Ø    Excellent written and spoken English

Ø    Good communication skills including scientific discussion and writing

Ø    Experience with computer-based data analysis and presentation of experimental data.

Ø    Good inter-personal skills with experience of working with multi-disciplinary teams

Ø    Ability to work co-operatively in a diverse team

2.      Desirable

Ø    Previous work or training in a range of physiological measurements.

Ø    Demonstrated ability to conduct demanding research work in a productive and                disciplined manner

Ø    Willingness to work outside normal working hours

Ø    Experience in relationships with suppliers and technical support personnel.

The post will be for 3 years in the in first instance and is subject to a probationary period of 6 months.

An attractive salary will be paid in Gambian Dalasi with displacement allowances, furnished accommodation, flights, and contribution to school fees for children and other benefits for displaced staff.

If you are interested and have the skills and abilities for this senior position please contact the Human Resources Office for an application form and a copy of the job description and person specification for the post. Competed application forms together with photocopies of qualifications should be returned to:

Human Resources Office

Vacancy for: Senior Scientific Officer (MRC Keneba)

MRC Unit, Fajara,

P.O. Box 273, Banju

Telephone: 4495442-6 & 4494072-9

E-mail: hr@mrc.gm

The closing date for the receipt of applications is 25^th April 2014.

MRC is an equal opportunities employer and operates a strict no smoking policy

Only short-listed candidates will be contacted