Assistant Research Officer or Research Officer

Reference Number: ARORO-08-12

Category: Research, Science and Biotechnology

Grade: 6.1/7.1

Location: Kilifi

Country: Kenya

Summary:

This position is intended for a science graduate with excellent laboratory skills to assist in the application of next generation sequencing (NGS) technology to research in pathogen biology in the KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme in Kenya.

The Programme carries out research on the molecular and population biology of pathogens causing infectious diseases such as malaria, pneumonia, TB, HIV and RSV.

We use DNA sequence technology to study virulence factors and antigens of malaria parasites and other bacterial and viral pathogens, with an emphasis on exploring pathogen diversity and the development of naturally acquired immunity.NGS is likely to radically change our approaches to these questions and open up exciting new avenues for research.

The successful candidate will play a key role developing NGS capacity through the construction of pathogen libraries and operation of an Ion Torrent sequencing machine.

Reporting Lines: Post holder will report to study principal investigators.

Key Responsibilities:

To support and execute the technical aspects of next generation sequencing for new and ongoing projects, including:

• DNA and RNA extraction.
• DNA library construction.
• Operation of a next generation sequencing machine.
• Management of sequencing data.
• Any other duties as assigned.

Skills and Competence:

Skills and Qualification

• A bachelor’s degree in sciences at least with an upper second class.

Other qualifications and experience:

• Laboratory experience in Molecular biology.
• Basic bioinformatics skills.
• Ability to learn and apply new techniques quickly.
• Work effectively and independently as a team member in a collaborative research environment.
• Good oral and written communication skills.
• Good organisational and prioritization skills.
• Careful attention to detail.

Desirable experience

• Previous experience in next generation sequencing and/or computational data analysis.

Application Procedure:

Click here to visit the KEMRI career site and apply online

To apply for this post you must be a registered user. Log into your account then go to “Vacancies”, view the post and click on the button: "Apply for this job".

All applicants are required to state their current/last salary.

Candidates must supply an Email and telephone contact that will be used when offering interviews. The application closing date is 21st August 2012. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

KEMRI-Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP) is an equal opportunity employer. Direct or indirect canvassing will lead to automatic disqualification. KWTRP does not charge a fee at any stage of the recruitment process (application, interview, meeting, processing, training or any other fees).