Microbiology Laboratory Technician

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Organization : Shoklo Malaria Research Unit

Introduction

The Shoklo Malaria Research Unit (SMRU) is a field station of the Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand, and is part of the Mahidol-Oxford Research Unit (MORU) supported by the Wellcome Trust, UK. The main objective of SMRU is to provide quality health care to the marginalised populations living on both sides of the Thai-Myanmar border in the Mae Sot area, Tak province. This is achieved by the dual activities of research and humanitarian services, with an emphasis on maternal-child health and infectious diseases.

SMRU is based in Mae Sot where the main laboratories are based and received samples from sites along the Thai-Myanmar border.

Job title: Microbiology Laboratory Technician

Location: Mae Sot

Status: Full time

Probation: SMRU can terminate employment at 3 months if performance inadequate

Report to: Head of Microbiology and Molecular Laboratories

Staff under supervision: Laboratory assistants

Job overview

The person selected for this job will be responsible for all activities related to microbiology and molecular microbiology, both routine and research activities. On a daily basis, this person will be involved in performing a range of microbiology tests, implementing and performing molecular assays for both diagnostic and research proposes. Techniques employed will include microbial culture, identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing; alongside nucleic acid extraction, conventional and real-time PCR, data analysis, reporting and authorising results and providing training where necessary. The successful applicant will also be responsible for all aspects of the assays used including stock control, quality control, SOPs, helping to supervise laboratory assistants and other duties as directed by the supervisor.

Tasks and responsibilities

Follow SOPs
Follow laboratory rules including health and safety rules
Communicate well with other staff members
Received specimens
Enter specimen details into laboratory databases
Maintain records including completing and signing forms/worksheets
Perform tests for diagnostic and/or research purposes
Report diagnostic test results into laboratory databases
Perform quality control checks
Authorise results
Analyse data
Troubleshoot tests
Follow-up equipment maintenance
Write and review SOPs
Develop/implement new tests
Supervise laboratory assistants
Gain a full understanding of the procedure performed
Train other staff members
Contribute to departmental tutorials
Refer samples to other laboratories for testing

Essential criteria

A degree in medical technology, microbiology or related subjects or sufficient vocational training in one of these disciplines.
Good spoken and written both Thai and English.
Familiarity with clinical and/or research laboratories.
The ability to work as part of the multinational team.
The ability to work flexible hours including weekends.
The ability to work under pressure.
The ability to present results to colleagues
Computing skill.
Willingness to live in Mae Sot.
Willingness to learn different techniques.