MEDICAL RESEARCH COUNCIL UNIT THE GAMBIA MANAGER, RESEARCH LABORATORY SERVICES

MEDICAL RESEARCH COUNCIL UNIT THE GAMBIA

MANAGER, RESEARCH LABORATORY SERVICES

 

The MRC Unit, The Gambia is a leading centre of excellence in medical research. The Unit runs a Laboratory Services Platform comprising Clinical and Research Laboratories equipped with cutting-edge technologies to support research activities across the four themes. The platform provides services ranging from routine diagnosis to complex molecular analysis including DNA sequencing and various genotyping assays. Laboratory activities are conducted under Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) principles with the Clinical Laboratories fully compliant and accredited.

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We are seeking to appoint a manager for our Research Laboratory services to be based at the main site at Fajara. The post-holder will manage the provision of support services to all laboratories in the MRC Unit. The Gambia, she/he also be required to support collaborating sites in the West African sub-region as defined by the senior manager laboratory services. The post holder must be an excellent communicator and leader with demonstrated potential for working in a diverse team that includes academics, governmental and NGO partners.

 

ESSENTIAL REQUIREMENTS:

 

Ø  A minimum of a suitable masters of science degree or equivalent from a accredited university with experience in research laboratories

Ø  A minimum of 5 years experience of active work in a research laboratory environment

Ø  A minimum of 3 years experience in a laboratory management role

Ø  Experience in the use and management of routine research laboratory technology

Ø  Demonstrated knowledge of new and specialized research laboratory technologies and techniques

Ø  Experience in implementing change management as it pertains to ensuring quality improvement around laboratory practices and safety

Ø  Good working knowledge of training laboratory – based staff and developing competency based training plans

Ø  Good working knowledge of cold chain and chain of custody sample management

Ø  Good working knowledge of procurement sources and storage procedures for laboratory consumables and equipment

Ø  Experience in the safe shipment of research samples and infectious organisms

Ø  Computer literate (e.g. Microsoft Office applications)

Ø  Excellent written and spoken English

Ø  Excellent communication skills

Ø  Excellent time management skills

Ø  Good budgetary and cost management skills

Ø  Good change management skills

Ø  Keenness to train and impart knowledge

Ø  Good organisational and staff management skills (note, with the ability to co-supervise staff with other managers)

Ø  Experience of working with people from different disciplines and cultures.

 

DESIRABLE

 

Ø  Substantial previous experience working in capacity development in Africa and/or the developing world

Ø  IATA or ICAO Shipping Training

Ø  Training in quality management systems and processes as they pertain to research and/or clinical laboratory environments

 

The salary will be paid in Grade 2 of MRC Unit, the Gambia's payscale at an annual net salary of GMD646, 972. this is equivalent to an take home pay of $15, 779 plus furnished accommodation, fights contribution to school fees for children and other benefits for displaced staff.

 

The appointment will be for 3 years

An application from and a copy of the job description are available from the address below. Completed applications forms should be sent to the address or email below: Human Resources Office:

 

Vacancy for: Manager, Researcher, Laboratory Services

MRC Units, Fajara  P.O. Box 273 Banjul

Telephone: 00220 4495442-6 & 00220 4494072-9

E-mail: hr@mrc.gm Website: www.mrc.gm

 

The closing date for the receipt of applications is 31^st July 2014.

MRC is an Equal opportunities Employer and operates a strict no smoking policy.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.