Research Assistant - Nairobi at Kenya Medical Research - KEMRI in Nairobi, Kenya

    Kenya Medical Research - KEMRI logo

    Research Assistant - Nairobi

    Kenya Medical Research - KEMRINairobi, Kenya

    Posted

    2 weeks ago

    Apply by

    26 Aug

    Contractor
    On Site
    Mid
    Healthcare, Medical & Pharmaceutical
    Research, Teaching & Training

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    Job Description

    This role involves setting up laboratory assays, receiving and processing patient specimens, and maintaining equipment and reagent inventories. The Research Assistant will also oversee sample storage and shipping, supervise sterilization of apparatus, and document study results. Additionally, the role includes planning field trips and preparing scientific findings for the study.

    Key Responsibilities

    • Setting up laboratory study assays, reporting and troubleshooting assays.
    • Receiving and scrutinizing laboratory requisition forms and specimen.
    • Receiving and collecting, labelling and registering patient specimen.
    • Preparing and making laboratory orders for reagents.
    • Maintaining equipment and reagent inventories for the study.
    • Supervising the disinfection, washing and sterilization of study apparatus.
    • Documenting and reporting study results.
    • Processing the specimen according to the specific Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
    • Overseeing sample storage and shipping processes including Material Transfer Agreements (MTAs).
    • Planning for field trips for the study as required.
    • Preparing and presenting scientific findings of the study as required.

    Required Qualifications

    • Bachelor's Degree in any of the following fields: Medical Microbiology OR Medical Laboratory Sciences or any other equivalent qualification from a recognized institution.
    • Mandatory Registration Certificate issued by the Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists Board (KMLTTB) or any other recognized regulatory body.
    • Mandatory Proficiency in phlebotomy procedures.
    • Mandatory Proficiency in computer application.
    • Mandatory Demonstrated work performance and results oriented.
    • At least three years' experience working in a clinical trial or research setting is an added advantage.
    • Experience working with arboviruses and other related viruses is an added advantage.
    • Analytical Skills (Mandatory)
    • Communication skills (Mandatory)
    • Interpersonal skills (Mandatory)
    • Team player (Mandatory)

    Job Details

    Job Function

    Research, Teaching & Training

    Minimum Experience

    3 years

    Education Level

    Bachelor’s Degree

    Area of Study

    Science

    Field of Study

    Medical Microbiology

    Languages

    English

    Additional Information

    How to Apply: Interested and qualified candidates should apply through the KEMRI recruitment portal at erecruitment.kemri.go.ke.

    Master the Lab Bench and the Paper Trail

    This role sits at the intersection of hands-on lab work and meticulous documentation. Hiring managers will be looking for someone who can follow SOPs to the letter while also keeping the study's data and samples in perfect order.

    1. Showcase your phlebotomy certification: Since phlebotomy proficiency is mandatory, highlight your certification and any hands-on experience with specimen collection. Mention the number of successful draws you've performed and any pediatric or difficult-draw experience.

    2. Prove your SOP fluency: In the interview, be ready to walk through a standard operating procedure you've used. Explain how you ensure accuracy and consistency, and how you handle deviations or troubleshooting.

    3. Emphasize your clinical trial experience: If you have prior work in clinical trials or research, detail your specific responsibilities. Mention any experience with sample processing, storage, and shipping under GCP or GCLP guidelines.

    4. Highlight your knowledge of biosafety: Working with viruses, including arboviruses, requires strict biosafety practices. Discuss your training in biosafety levels, PPE use, and waste decontamination.

    5. Prepare for competency questions: Expect questions about your ability to work under pressure, manage multiple tasks, and maintain accuracy. Use the STAR method to describe situations where you solved problems or improved processes.

    6. Brush up on data management: Even though it's a lab role, you'll be documenting results and possibly entering data. Familiarize yourself with common lab information management systems (LIMS) and be ready to discuss your computer proficiency.

    7. Understand the bigger picture: Show that you understand how your role contributes to the overall research objectives. Be ready to discuss the importance of sample integrity and traceability in generating reliable study outcomes.

    8. Ask insightful questions: When given the chance, ask about the study's current phase, the team structure, and how success is measured. This demonstrates genuine interest and strategic thinking.

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    Tags

    laboratory
    phlebotomy
    clinical trial
    research
    SOP