Research Associate and Laboratory Assistant

Background

The Center for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa) is a regional center of excellence for education and research at Addis Ababa University. The main aim of CDT-Africa is to build medical discovery capacity (drugs, vaccines and diagnostics) in Africa through high quality training and research programs.

As part of these effort, Addis Ababa University Center for Innovative Drug Development and Therapeutic Trials for Africa (CDT-Africa) is seeking for a dedicated Research Associate and Laboratory Assistant to work for the African One Health Network for Disease Prevention (ADAPT) Project under the center. ADAPT project is funded by the German government and it is a research and capacity building project on antimicrobial resistance (AMR), a major global health threat, and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs).

The successful applicant will be responsible for conducting relevant product development research and also assisting laboratory operations of the project.

Key Responsibilities:

• Prepare and set up laboratory equipment and materials for experiments.
• Conduct routine testing and accurately record results.
• Maintain cleanliness and organization within the laboratory.
• Assist in inventory management of laboratory supplies and equipment.
• Follow safety protocols and ensure compliance with laboratory regulations.
• Support researchers, PhD students, and scientists in conducting experiments.
• Safely handle and dispose of hazardous materials.
• Collaborate with project investigators to plan and coordinate study activities.
• Assist postgraduate students with sampling, laboratory work, and data analysis.
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative research.
• Prepare literature reviews, reports, and presentations.
• Support the design and execution of research studies and experiments.
• Collaborate with team members on research initiatives.
• Prepare and optimize laboratory procedures while conducting laboratory activities.
• Ensure adherence to quality standards by following Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
• Generate documentation in compliance with Quality Systems and Good Laboratory Practices.
• Maintain laboratory notebooks accurately.
• Adhere to biosafety measures in the laboratory to ensure the safety of oneself and others.
• Facilitate the maintenance of laboratory equipment, ensuring it is in good working order and operated according to SOPs.
• Perform additional tasks as directed by the Head of the Center or principal investigators.

Qualifications and Skills:

• MSc in Biotechnology, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, or related fields, with a minimum of a “Very Good” research thesis result.
• Familiarity with safety procedures and regulations in a laboratory environment.
• A minimum of five years of experience in laboratory work, with at least five publications in reputable, peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience in the development of diagnostic products using techniques such as ELISA, cell culture, RNA/DNA extraction, PCR, and gel electrophoresis.
• Discretion and ability to handle confidential and sensitive information.
• Strong computer literacy and knowledge of relevant software programs.
• Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Strong writing and verbal communication skills.
• Strong administrative and organizational abilities.

Terms and Conditions:

• Hours of Work: Governed by the laws of Ethiopia; however, due to the nature of the work, overtime and weekend work may be required, with appropriate financial compensation.
• Holidays: Governed by the rules of Addis Ababa University for project workers.
• Probationary Period: There is a three-month probationary period for this role, with contracts subject to renewal every six months.