Laboratory Scientist for Biochemistry (AfCDC) at the African Union (AU)

The African Union (AU) is a continental body consisting of the 55 member states that make up the countries of the African Continent. It was officially launched in 2002 as a successor to the Organization of African Unity (OAU, 1963-1999). We are an Integrated, Prosperous and Peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Laboratory Scientist for Biochemistry (AfCDC)

Requisition ID: 2052
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Reports to: Principal  Scientist for Biochemistry
Directorate/Department/Organ: Africa CDC
Division: Centres for Laboratory Diagnostics and Systems
Number of Direct Reports: -
Number of Indirect Reports: -
Job Grade: P2
Number of Positions: 1
Contract Type: Fixed Term

Purpose of Job

• The Laboratory Scientist for Biochemistry is responsible for performing a variety of biochemical tests to diagnose and monitor diseases.
• This includes performing assays, interpreting results, and reporting findings to physicians and other healthcare professionals.
• The Laboratory Scientist will also work to maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment and supplies.

Main Functions

• Assist in following up on the activities of the division, including monitoring and evaluating progress made in line with a predefined strategic plan.
• Suggest new and expand on existing policy areas for planned research.
• Contribute to conducting analysis and generate accurate reports in a timely manner for the respective Unit/Division and AU’s internal use.
• Assist in setting the overall research direction of a relevant policy area.
• Responsible for the delegation and execution of defined research areas.
• Participate in the organization of relevant meetings, congresses, and conferences with stakeholders.
• Engage with relevant mid-level stakeholders and develop working relationships. Support the promotion of the activities of the Division, including preparing leaflets, guidelines, and fact sheets.
• Assist in drafting reports and participate in the preparation of budgets and work programs related to the functioning of the Unit/Division.
• Provide technical support to internal and external stakeholders.

Specific Responsibilities

• Perform a variety of biochemical tests, such as enzyme assays, protein electrophoresis, and blood gas analysis.
• Responsible for performing biochemical analyses on various biological samples, such as blood, urine, saliva, and tissue, using advanced laboratory equipment and techniques.
• Developing and validating new methods, protocols, and standards for biochemical testing, as well as ensuring quality control and assurance of the laboratory processes and results.
• Work closely with other laboratory staff, clinicians, researchers, and external partners to support the Africa CDC's mission of strengthening public health capacity and response in Africa.
• Interpret test results and report findings to physicians and other healthcare professionals.
• Maintain and calibrate laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Train and supervise laboratory technicians.
• Participate in research projects.
• Stay up-to-date on new biochemical techniques and technologies.

Academic Requirements and Relevant Experience

• Master's Degree or equivalent OR Bachelor's Degree in Biochemistry, Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, or a related field from a recognized institution, coupled with two (2) OR five (5) years relevant work experience in a clinical or research laboratory setting, preferably in biochemistry or molecular diagnostics.
• Proficiency in using various laboratory instruments and software, such as spectrophotometers, chromatographs, mass spectrometers, PCR machines, ELISA readers, and LIMS.
• Knowledge of current best practices and standards in biochemical testing, quality management systems, biosafety, and biosecurity.
• Ability to design, conduct, analyze, interpret, and report biochemical experiments with accuracy and precision.
• Experience with laboratory information systems (LIS).
• Experience with molecular biology techniques.
• Experience with clinical research.

Required Skills:

• Excellent communication, teamwork, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Fluency in English and French, both written and spoken.
• Willingness to travel within Africa and internationally as required.
• Strong knowledge of biochemical principles and techniques.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good communication and interpersonal skills.

Leadership Competencies:

• Strategic Insight
• Developing Others
• Change Management
• Managing Risk

Core Competencies:

• Teamwork and Collaboration
• Fosters Accountability Culture
• Learning Orientation
• Communicating with Influence

Functional Competencies:

• Analytical Thinking and Problem Solving
• Job Knowledge and information sharing
• Drive for Results
• Continuous Improvement Focus

Tenure of Appointment:

• The Appointment will be made on a fixed term contract for a period of one (1) year, of which the first three (3) months will be considered as a probationary period. Thereafter, the contract may be renewed for a similar period subject to funding availability, satisfactory performance and agreed deliverables. 

Gender Mainstreaming:

• The AU Commission is an equal opportunity employer and qualified women are strongly encouraged to apply.

Languages:

• Proficiency in one of the AU working languages (Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese, and Spanish) is mandatory and fluency in another AU language is an added advantage

Remuneration

• The salary attached to the position is an annual lump sum of US$ 85,212.07 (P2 Step 5) inclusive of all allowances for internationally recruited staff, and US$  66,751.81  inclusive of all allowances for locally recruited staff of the African Union Commission.

Application Closing Date
14th December, 2023 (11h59 p.m. EAT).