Main Purpose of Job

To independently conduct and support advanced laboratory-based research activities, including molecular diagnostics and genomic analyses, and contribute to study design, data analysis, and scientific reporting within HerpeZ research projects.

Accountable to:

Scientific Coordinator / Principal Investigator

Required Minimum Education:

Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, or related field (Master’s degree is an added advantage).

Required Minimum Experience:

• At least 2 years of relevant laboratory or research experience.
• Demonstrated experience in molecular laboratory techniques.
• Experience in research project implementation and data reporting is highly desirable.
• Experience in PCR, whole genome sequencing, and metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) will be a strong advantage.

Level of Authorization:

Moderate – able to work independently on assigned research activities and supervise junior staff where necessary.

Description of Tasks:

• Perform advanced laboratory procedures including PCR (real-time and conventional), whole genome sequencing, and metagenomic sequencing workflows.
• Lead sample processing, nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, sequencing, and quality control procedures.
• Analyse and interpret laboratory and sequencing data using appropriate bioinformatics tools where applicable.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of research protocols and experimental workflows.
• Prepare technical and scientific reports, and contribute to manuscript writing and presentations.
• Ensure adherence to Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP), biosafety, and quality assurance standards.
• Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and sequencing platforms.
• Monitor laboratory stock levels and procure reagents and consumables as needed.
• Supervise and mentor junior laboratory staff and students.
• Ensure proper documentation, data management, and record keeping for all research activities.
• Report technical issues, quality concerns, and deviations to the supervisor promptly.
• Participate in collaborative research activities within HerpeZ and with external partners.
• Follow all institutional policies and comply with safety and regulatory requirements.

• Perform advanced laboratory procedures including PCR (real-time and conventional), whole genome sequencing, and metagenomic sequencing workflows.
• Lead sample processing, nucleic acid extraction, library preparation, sequencing, and quality control procedures.
• Analyse and interpret laboratory and sequencing data using appropriate bioinformatics tools where applicable.
• Contribute to the design and implementation of research protocols and experimental workflows.
• Prepare technical and scientific reports, and contribute to manuscript writing and presentations.
• Ensure adherence to Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP), biosafety, and quality assurance standards.
• Maintain, calibrate, and troubleshoot laboratory equipment and sequencing platforms.
• Monitor laboratory stock levels and procure reagents and consumables as needed.
• Supervise and mentor junior laboratory staff and students.
• Ensure proper documentation, data management, and record keeping for all research activities.
• Report technical issues, quality concerns, and deviations to the supervisor promptly.
• Participate in collaborative research activities within HerpeZ and with external partners.
• Follow all institutional policies and comply with safety and regulatory requirements.

• Molecular laboratory techniques
• PCR (real-time and conventional)
• Whole genome sequencing
• Metagenomic sequencing
• Bioinformatics tools
• Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP)
• Biosafety standards
• Quality assurance standards
• Laboratory equipment maintenance and calibration
• Data management
• Record keeping

• Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, or related field
• Master’s degree is an added advantage
• At least 2 years of relevant laboratory or research experience
• Demonstrated experience in molecular laboratory techniques
• Experience in research project implementation and data reporting is highly desirable
• Experience in PCR, whole genome sequencing, and metagenomic next-generation sequencing (mNGS) will be a strong advantage