Medical Laboratory Scientists - Stem Cell at Deloitte Nigeria

Deloitte is the largest private professional services network in the world. Everyday, approximately 286,200 professionals in more than 150 countries demonstrate their commitment to making an impact that matters. Our West Africa practice serves multinationals, large national enterprises, small and medium-sized enterprises and the public sector across Nigeria and Ghana.

In Nigeria, Deloitte is one of the leading professional services firms, specializing in providing Audit, Tax, Consulting, Risk Advisory and Financial Advisory services. We serve clients in a variety of industries from financial services, consumer, telecommunications, media & technology, energy resources & Industrial and government and public services.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Medical Laboratory Scientist - Stem Cell

Location: Abuja (FCT)

Job Purpose

• The Medical Laboratory Scientist – Stem Cell is responsible for executing, managing, and optimizing experiments related to stem cell biology, cellular reprogramming, differentiation, and regenerative medicine.
• The role holder is expected to conduct technical laboratory examinations, data analysis, and collaborate within a multidisciplinary research environment.

Core Responsibilities
Experimental Design and Execution:

• Develop detailed experimental plans for stem cell research projects, including hypothesis formulation, protocol development, and timeline management.
• Optimize protocols for stem cell isolation, culture, expansion, differentiation, and maintenance.
• Perform advanced cell culture techniques, including maintenance of pluripotent and adult stem cell lines.
• Conduct cellular reprogramming using methods such as Yamanaka factors, episomal vectors, or chemical reprogramming.
• Differentiate stem cells into specific cell types (e.g., neurons, cardiomyocytes, hepatocytes) using established and novel protocols.
• Apply gene-editing techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 for functional studies.
• Conduct immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry, and high-throughput screening assays to evaluate cellular phenotypes.

Quality Assurance and Laboratory Compliance:

• Ensure consistent and high-quality stem cell cultures by monitoring cell morphology, proliferation, and viability.
• Perform routine mycoplasma and contamination checks.
• Maintain compliance with institutional, national, and international ethical standards and guidelines (e.g., GMP, FDA, HFEA).
• Prepare and update risk assessments, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and safety protocols.

Data Collection and Analysis:

• Collect, document, and manage experimental data using electronic laboratory notebooks and data management software.
• Perform statistical analysis of experimental data to identify trends and validate hypotheses.
• Use bioinformatics tools for omics data analysis, including RNA-seq and single-cell sequencing data.
• Prepare detailed reports and visualizations of experimental findings for internal and external presentations.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including molecular biologists, bioinformaticians, and clinicians, to achieve project goals.
• Participate in lab meetings, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative research initiatives.
• Prepare research reports, grant applications, and manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications.
• Present findings at scientific conferences and symposiums.

Laboratory Management and Mentorship:

• Oversee laboratory inventory, including ordering and maintaining stocks of reagents, consumables, and equipment.
• Ensure proper maintenance and calibration of laboratory instruments.
• Train and supervise junior scientists, technicians, and interns in stem cell research techniques.
• Provide guidance and feedback to ensure the quality and reproducibility of experiments.

Qualifications
Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in  Microbiology, Medical Laboratory Science, Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry or a related field
• Master’s degree in a related field is an added advantage.

Professional Requirements:

• Certification as a Technologist or Specialist in Microbiology is an added advantage

Experience Requirements:

• 1-4 years of experience in a stem cell laboratory setting, demonstrating progressive responsibility and expertise.
• Experience with advanced cell culture techniques (e.g., stem cell isolation, differentiation, characterization).
• Experience with molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry).

Knowledge Requirements:

• Deep knowledge of stem cell biology, including types of stem cells, their properties, and their potential applications.
• Expertise in advanced cell culture techniques, including stem cell isolation, culture, differentiation, and characterization.
• Strong understanding of molecular biology techniques such as PCR, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and gene expression analysis.
• Knowledge of research design, data analysis, and scientific writing.
• Understanding of ethical and regulatory issues related to stem cell research.
• Knowledge of current advancements and trends in stem cell research.

Skill Requirements:

• Technical Skills
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills
• Communication Skills
• Interpersonal Skills
• Attention to Detail
• Critical Thinking Skills
• Organizational Skills

Personal Abilities:

• Professional attitude towards work.
• Shares the AMCE’s vision.
• Proactive and organized.
• Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues and peers. 
• Supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members.
• Ability to adapt accordingly.
• High levels of honesty and integrity.

Application Closing Date
21st February, 2025