Zambart is an independent Zambian research organization with a longstanding research partnership between the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) and the University of Zambia which began in 1988, and it has become one of Zambia’s leading research groups specialising in Tuberculosis (TB) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

We facilitate quality interdisciplinary health research on issues of public health importance in Zambia. Over the years, Zambart has expanded its scope to include both qualitative and quantitative studies around TB and HIV as well as other infections and public health issues such as poverty, mental health and more. Results from numerous studies have contributed to policy and practice at both national and global levels.

Zambart staff form an interdisciplinary team with a range of expertise including epidemiology, clinical science, social science, laboratory, operations research, health systems and services research, health policy analysis, health economics, health communication research compliance and counselling.

Study Summary:

Zambart is currently recruiting staff for a new study entitled: “Global Burden Estimation of Human Papillomavirus (GLOBE-HPV). This study aims to estimate the prevalence of HPV 16 and/or 18 infection among a representative sample of girls and women. In addition, the study aims to estimate the incidence of HPV infection in selected populations over 2 years.

To support our wide range of research activities, we are looking for full time candidates to fill the following position:

Research Laboratory Scientist (01)

Position summary: The Laboratory Scientist position aims to both extend personal academic development post-graduation and to build laboratory science research and capacity within Zambart by focussing on, and performing, complex analytical processes in the laboratory .

Reports to:  Laboratory Manager

Location:     Lusaka, Zambia

Responsibilities:

• Sample preparation for serological assays.
• Perform serological assays on blood/ serum samples according to SOPs.
• Perform PCR testing using different molecular testing platforms.
• Prepare high quality, accurate and timely reports of investigations.
• Perform data capture for laboratory data management.
• Prepare samples for shipment within Zambia and other collaborating laboratories outside the country and ensure that all specimens and documents are accounted for during specimen movement and that no loss/damage of specimen or documentation is incurred during the movement as per the IATA dangerous goods shipping regulations
• Participate in development and writing of laboratory SOPs

Essential requirements

• Knowledge and adherence to stipulated biosafety measures
• Full knowledge of MSDS
• Be willing to work flexible hours which may include late hours or weekends when required to do so
• Ensure confidentiality of participant and project data
• Bachelor of Science Degree in Biological Sciences, Biomedical Science or recognised equivalent
• Competent in Microsoft office – word, excel access, power point
• Good people skills
• Registration with the Health Professions Council of Zambia
• Be a team player and be able to work under minimum supervision
• Experience in working with serological assays, molecular testing, and TB knowledge
• Laboratory safety training
• Experience in laboratory data capturing
• GCLP and/ or GCP training