Posted on: Fri 16-10-2015

The Institute of Human Virology (IHVN) is a leading and reputable indigenous non-governmental organization implementing a comprehensive family-focused HIV/AIDS prevention, care and treatment program in partnership with local and international organizations and the different tiers of the Government of Nigeria at national, state, local and site levels. IHVN is sourcing for young and dynamic Medical Laboratory Scientists to fill the position of Program Officers to work in our Molecular Diagnostic laboratories.

OPEN TO: All Interested Candidates 
POSITION: Program Officer, Molecular Diagnostics 
OPENING DATE: October 15th, 2015 
CLOSING DATE: October 29th, 2015 
LOCATIONS: Abuja

SCHEDULED WORK TIMES: Monday - Friday

REPORTS TO: Senior Program Officer, Laboratory

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS

Education/Experience:

• BMLS or its equivalent with a minimum of 3 years post NYSC experience in laboratory services especially in HIV/AIDS programs
• Higher Degree (MSc or PhD) in relevant field with fewer years of post-qualification experience can be considered
• Must be a MLSCN registered member (or equivalent professional registration, approved by MLSCN).
• Must be between 25-35 years of age

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities

• Ability to perform multiple challenging tasks with minimum supervision
• Result-oriented and responsive person with ability to pay attention to details of work, set priorities and perform excellently
• Exhibit good interpersonal relationship, written and oral communications skills and a team player
• Knowledge and understanding of PCR workflow is an added advantage
• Knowledge of Statistics, LIMS, MS word, Excel, Access, Power point and Internet
• Should have strong ethical values, effective time management and ability to meet timelines
• Must be able to logically and effectively structure tasks and set priorities
• Ability to predict and identify potential problems and take corrective/preventive actions
• Should be flexible and ready to learn.

ESSENTIAL FUNCTIONS:

The Program Officer, Molecular Diagnostics shall be responsible for:

• Collecting and documenting sample for Early Infant Diagnosis (EID) and Viral Load (VL) assays
• Packaging, shipping, storage and processing of specimens for DNA and RNA assays
• Performing DNA and RNA assays, validating, reviewing, interpreting and dispatching results to relevant medical staff for informed patient management
• Laboratory data and storage record management
• Supporting development of PCR, Quality Control, equipment functional and preventive maintenance and documents relating to policies, SOPs, guidelines and laboratory manuals
• Calibration, programming, performance verification and functional checks of PCR equipment
• Implementing good laboratory practice and total quality management in the PCR labs
• Participating in internal and external DNA and RNA proficiency testing schemes, analyzing results and implementing corrective actions on failed proficiencies.
• Training laboratory scientists and health workers in dried blood spot (DBS) and whole blood collection, documentation, packaging, storage and shipment
• Carrying out support activities to increase understanding for improved program implementation including development of protocols and maintenance of international PCR lab standards
• Ensuring service is provided in an accurate, efficient, cost-effective and timely manner
• Performing stock inventory, forecast and request for lab consumables/reagents and monitoring supply utilization
• Maintaining and updating professional knowledge and taking responsibility for continuing professional development (CPD)
• Any other relevant duties assigned by supervisor

Method of Application

Application letter and detailed curriculum vitae in Microsoft word format should be forwarded to the. Associate Director, Human Resources through this email address: [email protected] .

Candidates should indicate appropriate positions and preferred locations in their application letter. IHVN is an equal opportunity employer.

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