COHERS Research Laboratory Technician

Position Title: COHERS Research Laboratory Technician

Reports to: Dr. Anselme Shyaka, Assistant Professor, Center for One Health

Group/Department: Center for One Health, University of Global Health Equity (UGHE)

Location: Nyamagabe district (primary), Kigali and additional study sites (secondary)

Contract duration: September 2024- November 2024 (3 months)

Number of consultants: 2

Role Overview:

The Center for One Health at the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) is on a mission to lead high impact research, teaching, and community service among vulnerable communities in Rwanda and the world. Community One Health Empowerment in Rwanda and Senegal (COHERS) is a four-year research program that aims to (i) operationalize One Health disease at the community level, (ii) test One Health interventions that reduce the burden of cysticercosis, and (iii) generate evidence to support programs and policies for cysticercosis elimination in Rwanda. The primary role of the COHERS Research Lab Technician will be to conduct parasitology analyses on human stool and swine blood samples. The ideal candidate for this position is highly self-motivated, with excellent organizational skills, a strong attention to detail, and the ability to promote strong team cohesion. The research lab technician should have previous experience conducting laboratory tests related to the detection of parasitic diseases.

Responsibilities

• Conduct Kato-Katz, PCR and ELISA analyses related to the detection and analysis of T.solium.
• Coordinate with field staff for timely sample collection, transportation, and storage.
• Ensure adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs) and safety protocols in the laboratory.
• Maintain accurate and detailed records of laboratory procedures, results, and analyses.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment, ensuring proper functionality and calibration.
• Record and manage laboratory data, maintaining a comprehensive and organized database.
• Record and manage consumables and initiate request for procurement of need materials
• Observe confidentiality of samples and test results.

Qualifications

• Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Medical Laboratory Science, Biotechnology, Biology, or a related discipline).
• At least 3 years of previous experience in a laboratory setting, particularly in the field of parasitology or infectious diseases.
• Experience inputting and managing data through digital systems (e.g. Redcap, Kobo Toolbox, Qualtrics)
• Competent in the use of Microsoft office suite and virtual meeting platforms
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety and biosecurity practices.

Commitment to Safeguarding and Prevention of Sexual Exploitation, Abuse and Sexual Harassment:

At UGHE, we are committed to ensuring that those who benefit from our work- including community members – as well as our students, contractors, staff and visitors to our campus are treated with dignity and respect and protected from sexual exploitation, abuse and harassment and any form of systemic abuse, whilst reducing risk and vulnerabilities. A range of pre-employment checks will be undertaken in conformity with UGHE’s policy.

UGHE will request information from applicants’ previous employers about any findings of fraud, harassment, sexual harassment and any form of systemic abuse or incidents under investigation when the applicant left employment. By submitting an application, the job applicant confirms their understanding of these recruitment procedures.

Interested Candidates should submit their detailed CV and qualifications in one PDF Document not later than 26^th July 2024 to the following address: [email protected]&[email protected].with Subject line: Laboratory Technician

Any clarification requests can be sent by email to the above email addresses no later than 24th July 2024 at 11:59 am

UGHE is an equal opportunity employer, and all qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without regard to race, colour, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, disability status, protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by law.

Sincerely,

Shivon Byamukama, PhD

Deputy Vice Chancellor,

Administrative and Financial Affairs

University of Global Health Equity