The Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU) is a collaborative research Unit based at the National Institute for Medical Research campus in Mwanza, Tanzania. The mission of MITU is to contribute to improving health through the development and evaluation of interventions against HIV and other health problems by conducting research, including clinical trials, to the highest international standards; to enhance the capacity to carry out such research in Tanzania and the East African region; and to contribute to the translation of research findings into health policy. MITU is currently collaborating with other international research partners to conduct a cohort study of 90 women with schistosome infection and 90 women without schistosome infection. This five-year program of research aims to define the genital mucosal immune cell composition in Schistosoma haematobium infection, before and after praziquantel, determine the molecular mechanisms linked to breakdown of genital epithelial integrity in women with S. haematobium infection and to quantify the effect of S. haematobium infection on the frequency, intensity, and duration of genital Herpes Simplex Virus type 2 reactivation in the cohort. The Unit is now inviting applications from motivated and suitably qualified candidates to fill the following position:
Position: LABORATORY TECHNICIAN
The successful applicant will have a bachelors diploma/degree in the laboratory sciences/technology, and at least 5 years’ post-qualification laboratory experience.
Posts: 2
Specific Responsibilities
- To travel for two days every week with the study team to Itilima district in Simiyu region for screening, enrollment and follow up of study participants.
- To perform urine filtration and Kato- Katz procedures for diagnosis of schistosomiasis from samples collected from participants during study visits.
- To Prepare and organize samples for submission and storage at the laboratory.
- To examine Kato- Katz slides and enter the results in the study tablets.
- To assist with additional tasks as reasonably required by the field study team including assisting other team members as needed in order to contribute to smooth and efficient field work.
- To collaborate with the study PIs, Study Coordinator, Field Coordinator, Laboratory staff and other team members to ensure the continued success of study objectives.
- Attend the monthly meeting between the laboratory and investigating teams.
- To perform tasks in accordance with GCP and GCLP guidelines.
- To perform quality control of all study laboratory related procedures.
- To perform appropriate maintenance of equipment including keeping logs of equipment and routine cleaning of laboratory working areas.
- To perform stock taking for laboratory reagents and consumables.
- To liaise with the procurement department in procuring of laboratory reagents and consumables with regard to study specifications.
- To follow and ensure strict safety procedures and safety checks.
- To ensure participants’ confidentiality is maintained at all times.
Essential Qualifications
- A Diploma/ Degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences/Technology or any equivalent qualification.
- At least 5 years’ post-qualification laboratory experience preferably in research settings.
- Certification in Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP) for the conduct of human research.
- Familiarity with laboratory techniques for diagnosis of schistosomiasis including Kato Katz and Urine Filtration techniques.
- Familiarity with processing peripheral blood mononuclear cells (PBMCs).
- Strong organizational skills and ability to work effectively in a team.
Desirable qualifications
- Experience working in research settings
- Excellent written and oral communication skills in English and Swahili.
Mode of application:
- Interested applicants should submit their applications together with a letter of application, CV and copies of all relevant certificates, memberships and qualifications recruitment@mitu.or.tz no later than 9th June 2023.
- The applicants should clearly state the job title for which they are applying in the subject line of the email.
- Paper applications will not be accepted.
Interviews will be held at the earliest available opportunity and only shortlisted candidates will be notified by email if selected for interview.
MITU is an equal opportunity organization, female applicants and people with disability are highly encouraged to apply
A competitive remuneration package will be offered.
