Regional Laboratory Coordinator, Africa

The International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) is a nonprofit scientific and charitable organization founded in 1996 whose mission is to ensure the development of safe, effective, accessible, preventive HIV vaccines for use throughout the world. IAVI's work focuses on four areas: implement a focused & innovative Research & Development (R & D) program; secure and sustain global commitment; promote public policies that support vaccine R&D and future access; and engage as partners the countries significantly affected by the epidemic where the need for a vaccine is most pressing.

Job Title: Regional Laboratory Coordinator, Africa

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa

Position Summary:

The International AIDS Vaccine Initiative (IAVI) seeks an experienced, entrepreneurial, and creative clinical professional who will be responsible, together with other members of the team, for the day-to-day management of the laboratories involved in IAVI vaccine trials in India and Africa. The post holder is skilled in performing all scientific procedures in a clinical trial laboratory. Has an excellent knowledge of GCLP implementation and laboratory requirements for running a successful clinical trial laboratory. They will work in close collaboration with the IAVI laboratory site staff, the IAVI Human Immunology Laboratory in London and the R+D department at IAVI. They will be required to be in frequent contact with the lab teams in Africa to trouble shoot and advise as necessary.

Key Responsibilities:

· Provide on site technical training in HIL (human immunology laboratory) and site specific diagnostic assay SOPs

· Develop and/or review SOPs, training materials, analytical plans and quality program documents

· Manage contract for service and maintenance and pipette calibration in support of GCLP for all Africa and India sites

· Follow up on GCLP actions identified at the sites

· Follow up on procurement issues for clinical and immunology laboratories.

· Assist with logistics and content for CRU workshops

· Work with partner organizations and collaborators globally

Experience and Skills:

· Scientific training; preferably laboratory qualification in Clinical Pathology but professional qualifications from state registered bodies and /or experience working in acccreditted laboratories also considered

· Good knowledge of GCLP

· Experience in working in Africa

· Excellent communication skills, both verbal and written

· Demonstrated teaching and organizational skills

· Team member who can work independently

· Willing to travel 20%

Characteristics

· Ability to work alone and in a team as part of an active research department

· Energy and enthusiasm for the IAVI mission and working in resource poor settings

· Willingness to undertake some training duties

· Determination to succeed

· Flexible, patient, diplomatic

· Problem solver

· Must have a commitment to the issues central to IAVI’s mission

Regional Laboratory Coordinator, Africa