Molecular Biology Laboratory Technician

Applications are invited for the following position.

MOLECULAR BIOLOGY LABORATORY TECHNICIAN, KAVI-INSTITUTE OF CLINICAL RESEARCH (KAVI-ICR) – AD/5/28/25 1 POST

Background information

KAVI-ICR is conducting several translational studies to determine the baseline immune profiles that can predict responsiveness to upcoming vaccine candidates using high-throughput flow cytometry and next-generation sequencing techniques.

Purpose of the Position

1. Implementation of molecular biology techniques, specifically droplet-based single cell RNA sequencing, preparation of Next-Generation Sequencing libraries, sequencing on an Illumina NGS platform and processing of sequence data.
2. Implementation of flow cytometry techniques for cell sorting of antigen-specific immune cells.
3. Presentation of results to the group, programme and collaborators.
4. Preparation of reports and scientific manuscripts for publication.
5. Mentorship of interns and students.
6. Any other responsibilities that may arise from time to time.

Job requirements/Specifications:

1. A Master’s degree (MSc) in Molecular Biology, Immunology, Biochemistry, Biomedical Sciences, or a closely related field.
2. A bachelor in Molecular Biology with at least 2 years’ extensive hands-on experience in a molecular biology laboratory, with independent performance of next-generation sequencing (NGS) workflows and droplet-based singe sell RNA sequencing (e.g. 10X genomics Chromium platform) relevant experience may also be considered for this position.
3. Mandatory proficiency with Illumina sequencing platforms (e.g., NovaSeq, MiSeq).
4. Hands-on experience in flow cytometry and cell sorting.
5. Publications in a peer-reviewed journal as a first author or significant contributor in the field of molecular biology will be an added advantage.

Location

The incumbent will be located in Nairobi at the KAVI-Institute of Clinical Research, University of Nairobi.

Terms of Appointment

This is a position whose tenure is one (1) year contract, renewable based on performance and by mutual consent.