Clinical Research Laboratory Technologist – IDRC

Job Summary

Key Responsibilities

• Perform laboratory screening and diagnostic tests according to approved study protocols and laboratory SOPs.
• Conduct laboratory investigations while maintaining accuracy, reliability, and quality standards.
• Support research studies through timely processing and reporting of laboratory findings.
• Identify abnormal or critical laboratory results and immediately communicate them to study clinicians.

Specimen Collection and Management

• Ensure proper collection, identification, labeling, and documentation of study specimens.
• Process, store, and retrieve biological samples according to study requirements.
• Maintain proper specimen tracking systems.
• Package and prepare specimens for transportation and shipment to collaborating laboratories within Uganda and internationally.
• Follow approved specimen transportation procedures, including applicable regulations and triple-packaging requirements.

Laboratory Documentation and Data Management

• Record, verify, and report laboratory results accurately and on time.
• Maintain complete laboratory records and study documentation.
• Participate in laboratory data cleaning activities.
• Respond to laboratory-related data queries from research teams.
• Maintain sample storage databases and specimen tracking information.
• Support preparation of laboratory reports, presentations, manuscripts, and research outputs.

Quality Assurance and Quality Control

• Conduct routine quality assurance and quality control procedures for laboratory tests.
• Ensure compliance with:
  • Laboratory SOPs.
  • Biosafety guidelines.
  • Quality management systems.
  • Clinical research standards.
• Maintain quality control records and documentation.
• Participate in the development, review, and implementation of laboratory SOPs.

Laboratory Equipment and Supplies Management

• Maintain laboratory equipment and ensure proper functionality.
• Keep updated:
  • Equipment maintenance logs.
  • Calibration records.
  • Quality control documentation.
• Monitor laboratory supplies and maintain accurate inventories.
• Request replenishment of laboratory supplies when required.

Research Team Collaboration

• Communicate effectively with local and international investigators.
• Participate in:
  • Research meetings.
  • Conference calls.
  • Study discussions.
• Support laboratory-related sections of research reports and publications.
• Perform any other duties assigned by the supervisor.

Academic Qualifications

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Laboratory Technology from a recognized institution.
• Registration with the Allied Health Professionals Council of Uganda (AHPCU).
• Valid practising licence is mandatory.

Required Certifications

• Certificate in Good Clinical Practice (GCP).
• Certificate in Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) or Human Subjects Protection (HSP) obtained within the last two years.

• Training in Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP).

Required Skills and Experience

• Strong laboratory testing and diagnostic skills.
• Knowledge of clinical research laboratory procedures.
• Ability to maintain accurate laboratory records.
• Strong understanding of biosafety and specimen handling procedures.
• Good communication and teamwork skills.
• Ability to work according to research protocols and SOPs.
• Strong attention to detail and accuracy.

Added Advantages

• TB and HIV laboratory investigations, including:
  • IGRA testing.
  • GeneXpert testing for TB.
  • Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MTB) culture.
• Experience handling and processing biological samples.
• Experience maintaining sample storage databases.
• Computer skills including:
  • Microsoft Excel.
  • Microsoft Access.
• Previous experience working in clinical trials or research laboratories.

Key Competencies

Career Opportunities

• Clinical research laboratories.
• Public health research.
• HIV and TB laboratory programs.
• Clinical trial management.
• Laboratory quality systems.
• Biomedical research.

• Clinical Research Laboratory Technologist.
• Laboratory Coordinator.
• Research Laboratory Officer.
• Clinical Trial Laboratory Manager.
• Public Health Laboratory Specialist.

Interview Preparation Tips

• Experience conducting laboratory diagnostic tests.
• Handling and storage of biological specimens.
• Understanding of GCP and research ethics.
• Laboratory quality control and assurance procedures.
• Experience with TB and HIV laboratory investigations.
• Managing laboratory equipment and supplies.
• Maintaining accurate laboratory documentation.
• Working within clinical research teams.

CV Tips for Applicants

• Bachelor’s Degree in Medical Laboratory Technology.
• AHPCU registration and valid practising licence.
• Laboratory research experience.
• GCP, RCR, HSP, and GCLP certifications.
• TB and HIV laboratory skills.
• Experience with GeneXpert, IGRA, MTB culture, or related testing.
• Specimen handling and storage experience.
• Laboratory quality assurance skills.
• Clinical trial or public health research experience.
• Computer and data management skills.

How to Apply