Introduction
The Shoklo Malaria Research Unit (SMRU) is a field station of the Faculty of Tropical Medicine, Mahidol University, Bangkok, Thailand, and is part of the Mahidol-Oxford Research Unit (MORU) supported by the Wellcome Trust, UK. The main objective of SMRU is to provide quality health care to the marginalised populations living on both sides of the Thai-Myanmar border in the Mae Sot area, Tak province. This is achieved by the dual activities of research and humanitarian services, with an emphasis on maternal-child health and infectious diseases.
SMRU is based in Mae Sot where the main laboratories are based and received samples from sites along the Thai-Myanmar border.
Job title: Microbiology Laboratory Technician
Location: Mae Sot
Status: Full time
Probation: SMRU can terminate employment at 3 months if performance inadequate
Report to: Head of Microbiology and Molecular Laboratories
Staff under supervision: Laboratory assistants
Job overview
The person selected for this job will be responsible for all activities related to microbiology and molecular microbiology, both routine and research activities. On a daily basis, this person will be involved in performing a range of microbiology tests, implementing and performing molecular assays for both diagnostic and research proposes. Techniques employed will include microbial culture, identification and antibiotic susceptibility testing; alongside nucleic acid extraction, conventional and real-time PCR, data analysis, reporting and authorising results and providing training where necessary. The successful applicant will also be responsible for all aspects of the assays used including stock control, quality control, SOPs, helping to supervise laboratory assistants and other duties as directed by the supervisor.
Tasks and responsibilities
• Follow SOPs
• Follow laboratory rules including health and safety rules
• Communicate well with other staff members
• Received specimens
• Enter specimen details into laboratory databases
• Maintain records including completing and signing forms/worksheets
• Perform tests for diagnostic and/or research purposes
• Report diagnostic test results into laboratory databases
• Perform quality control checks
• Authorise results
• Analyse data
• Troubleshoot tests
• Follow-up equipment maintenance
• Write and review SOPs
• Develop/implement new tests
• Supervise laboratory assistants
• Gain a full understanding of the procedure performed
• Train other staff members
• Contribute to departmental tutorials
• Refer samples to other laboratories for testing
Essential criteria
• A degree in medical technology, microbiology or related subjects or sufficient vocational training in one of these disciplines.
• Good spoken and written both Thai and English.
• Familiarity with clinical and/or research laboratories.
• The ability to work as part of the multinational team.
• The ability to work flexible hours including weekends.
• The ability to work under pressure.
• The ability to present results to colleagues
• Computing skill.
• Willingness to live in Mae Sot.
• Willingness to learn different techniques.
Desirable criteria
• A track record of contributing to scientific publications.
• Experience in research.
• Experience of working in a research or clinical microbiology
Applications must be sent to SMRU/HR Department 68/30 Bantung Road, Mae Sot, Tak 63110 or email to
smru-hr@shoklo-unit.comDead line for application: 31st July 2021
Please note that only short-listed candidates will be notified for the interview process.
