Laboratory Officer-Molecular Biology at AIDS Prevention initiative in Nigeria (APIN)

AIDS Prevention initiative in Nigeria (APIN) is a non-governmental donor-funded organization dedicated to the prevention, treatment, care and support of diseases of public health importance in Nigeria, induding HIVIAIDS, tuberculosis and malaria, among others. Since 2001 we have worked dosely with key stakeholders to reduce the burden and mitigate the impact of those diseases through cutting edge, innovative & sustainable approaches

We are seeking suitably qualified candidates to apply to assume the following position:

Job Title: Laboratory Officer-Molecular Biology

Location: Abuja

The Person
To provide technical support to laboratories to establish, implement and improve quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) activities including viral load testing, DNA PCR and HIV drug resistance monitoring. Participate in supportive supervision and provide mentorship to supported laboratories to achieve an improved QA programme.

Job Responsibilities

• Support and strengthen all capacity building efforts of molecular diagnostic section of all APIN-supported laboratories
• Programme, calibrate and verify PCR equipment as well as carry out troubleshooting and preventive maintenance of same
• Collect, document and store HIV-1 DNA and RNA HBV and HCV sample; prepare and process same and run assay
• Validate assay runs, analyse and interpret the results and manage the data
• Store and ship blood extract and fractions in liquid nitrogen
• Validate and evaluate new nucleic acid based test technologies for performance
• Maintain personal expertise in PCR laboratory practices and emerging automated methodologies and technologies
• Participate in supportive supervision and provide mentorship to health center laboratories
• Contribute to the strengthening of PCR laboratory network within the APIN programme and with other institutions and stakeholders
• Participate in the training of laboratory personnel and other health workers in molecular laboratory procedures and diagnostics
• Provide technical assistance in strengthening PCR laboratory data management to improve data utilization
• Provide support in the supplies chain management of PCR commodities, including rolling out tools for quantification and tracking of supplies to supported laboratories
• Coordinate EQA and IQC programmes for HIV-1 DNA and RNA, HBV, HCV testing
• Facilitate regular communications on PCR equipment repairs and maintenance with the relevant vendors and in-house services
  

Qualifications and Experience

• A Master’s degree in Virology, with the AIMLT/FIMLT professional certification and a minimum of 7 years’ relevant post-qualification experience;
• Previous experience working in international development organization will be added advantage.
  

Technical and Behavioural Competencies

• Report writing skill
• Oral and written communication skills
• Counseling skill
• Ability work under pressure and use own initiative
• Familiarity with the design, implementation and monitoring of clinical testing activities, especially in an HIV/AIDS environment

Application Closing Date
15 November, 2012.

Method of Application
Qualified and interested applicants should Click Here to complete an online application form. They should also upload their CV, which must contain a suitability statement, highlighting how their knowledge, skills and experience make them suitable for the position, and addressing the person specifications listed against the position. The statement should not exceed a page and must appear on the first page of the CV, which must be saved in Microsoft Word and as applicant’s name.

Late applications will not be considered and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Computer literacy and skills in usage of personal productivity tools (Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, internet browsing, etc.) are essential for this position; and candidates must be willing to do a considerable amount of local travel, as may be required.

APIN offers very competitive terms of employment and is an equal opportunity employer. Women who are qualified for the positions are therefore encouraged to apply.