Biology Lab Assistant

About Pharo Foundation

Pharo Foundation is a mission-driven, impact-oriented organization working to build a vibrant, productive, and self-reliant Africa. Our development efforts are focused on three core pillars:

• Education – Providing access to high-quality, affordable education that equips students for success in a rapidly changing world.
• Water – Ensuring that communities across Africa have access to clean, safe, and affordable water.
• Productivity – Removing barriers to employment and increasing economic opportunity for individuals and families.

Our for-profit arm, Pharo Ventures, operates sustainable businesses across Ethiopia and Somaliland to drive job creation and economic growth. With over 700 employees across Ethiopia, Kenya, Rwanda, and Somaliland, Pharo Foundation is headquartered in Nairobi, Kenya, with a liaison office in London, UK.

Role Summary

The Biology Lab Assistant supports the teaching and learning of biological sciences by preparing laboratory materials, maintaining equipment, and ensuring a safe and hygienic laboratory environment. The role involves the preparation of biological specimens, slides, and cultures, as well as assisting in practical activities such as microscopy and dissections. The assistant ensures compliance with biosafety and hygiene standards, including proper sterilization and waste disposal procedures. Working closely with instructors and students, the position contributes to effective laboratory operations, accurate experiment execution, and a well-maintained, organized laboratory setting.

Key Responsibilities

• Prepare biological specimens, slides, cultures, and reagents required for laboratory experiments and demonstrations.
• Set up microscopes, dissection tools, and other laboratory equipment before practical sessions.
• Assist students and instructors during laboratory activities, including microscopy, dissections, and sample analysis.
• Guide students on proper handling of biological materials and laboratory instruments.
• Maintain cleanliness and sterilization of laboratory equipment, including autoclaving and disinfecting tools where necessary.
• Ensure proper storage and preservation of biological specimens, chemicals, and cultures under appropriate conditions.
• Handle the safe collection, segregation, and disposal of biological and hazardous waste according to health and safety regulations.
• Monitor laboratory hygiene standards to prevent contamination and ensure a safe working environment.
• Maintain inventory of biological supplies, including slides, reagents, specimens, and consumables
• Record laboratory activities, specimen usage, and stock levels accurately.
• Inspect and maintain microscopes and other sensitive equipment to ensure optimal performance.
• Assist in preparing materials for practical exams, research activities, or special projects.
• Ensure compliance with biosafety and health regulations, including the use of PPE and proper sanitation procedures.

Skills & Competencies

• Knowledge of biological laboratory techniques, including microscopy, specimen preparation, and basic culturing methods.
• Understanding of biosafety protocols, hygiene standards, and proper handling of biological materials.
• Ability to properly sterilize equipment and maintain contamination-free laboratory conditions.
• Strong attention to detail when preparing slides, specimens, and laboratory materials.
• Organizational and inventory management skills to maintain laboratory supplies and records.
• Ability to follow standard operating procedures and maintain accurate documentation.
• Good communication skills to assist students and support instructors during practical sessions.
• Awareness of safe disposal methods for biological and hazardous waste.
• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively in a laboratory environment.

Qualification and Experience

• Diploma or Bachelor’s Degree in Laboratory Technology, Biology or a related science field.
• Prior experience working as a laboratory technician in a school, college, or research setting is an advantage.
• Practical knowledge of Biology laboratory equipment, apparatus, and procedures.
• Training or certification in laboratory safety and chemical handling is an advantage