Assistant Research Officer -Genomics and Bioinformatics at Kenya Medical Research – KEMRI

Job Description

Key Responsibilities:

Optimize and troubleshoot diagnostics and genome sequencing protocols for a range of pathogens of public health importance.
Assemble pathogen genomes derived from next generation sequencers based on targeted or metagenomics methods.
Undertake phylogenetic analyses, produce reports and leading writing of new scientific manuscripts.
Develop and maintain SOPs, Laboratory Analytical Plans and sample management.
Run laboratory assays as per the developed SOPS and protocols.
Receive, process and store samples according to set SOPS.
Establish and maintain a clean database for collected samples.
Organise sample shipment to collaborating institutes and labs where applicable.
Compile and analyses data collected from laboratory assays.
Comply with all laid down Quality Management System (QMS) guidelines/ standards/ SOPs.
Comply with all health and safety guidelines; and
Participate in assigned activities including journal clubs and seminars.

Vacancy Requirements:

Bachelor’s degree in biotechnology or molecular biology. Mandatory
Basic knowledge of bioinformatics and or computational data analysis Mandatory
Experience in bioinformatics methods including genome assembly of virus or bacterial genomes Mandatory
Minimum 4 years’ experience and out of which at least one (1) year should be at supervisory level. Mandatory
Excellent presentation and communication skills Desirable
Excellent organizational skills Desirable
Demonstrate high levels of integrity and confidentiality Skills & Competencies
Basic analytical, problem solving and critical thinking skills. Skills & Competencies
Team working and ability to work in diverse teams Skills & Competencies
Flexibility, adaptability, multi-tasking and attention to detail Skills & Competencies