Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
Hours: Full Time
Reports To: Laboratory Director – Africa Clinical Research Network
Our Mission:
The African Clinical Research Network (ACRN) is an African-led and African-driven clinical research organisation. Our work not only promotes and supports a vibrant life sciences ecosystem but also profoundly impacts Africa's health and economic development. By facilitating sustainable, innovative, collaborative, and community-oriented research, ACRN is poised to transform healthcare and improve lives across Africa, inspiring a new era of clinical research.
We provide high-quality data, harmonise regulatory processes to improve timelines, support capacity building within the existing ethics and regulatory systems, and enhance community trust and research participation. These are some of the first key steps to making Africa more competitive in the global life sciences industry, a goal we are proud to contribute to.
The ACRN drives clinical research excellence by connecting researchers to opportunities, enhancing research capacity in existing facilities, implementing high-quality trials and research, and leveraging a robust digital infrastructure.
We are committed to fostering the community's understanding of research. Through our community engagement network, we significantly increase stakeholder buy-in of clinical results, thereby enhancing the transparency and credibility of our research.
Job Summary:
We are looking for a Senior Medical Laboratory Scientist with expertise in performing routine diagnostic testing and clinical trial safety testing. The successful candidate will have substantial experience in routine laboratory procedures, quality management systems, and regulatory compliance (CAP, GCLP, or ISO15189).
Requirements
Key Responsibilities:
Laboratory Operations & Quality Management:
Perform, validate, and oversee diagnostic tests and laboratory procedures in compliance with CAP or ISO 15189 standards.
Implement and maintain quality assurance (QA) and quality control (QC) programs.
Assist in the development, review, and implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
Accreditation & Compliance:
Ensure laboratory operations meet accreditation requirements for CAP and/or ISO 15189.
Prepare for internal and external audits, including documentation and corrective action plans.
Collaborate with the Quality Manager to address audit findings and implement improvements.
Technical Expertise & Training:
Provide technical guidance and mentorship to junior staff.
Train team members on quality standards, new technologies, and laboratory processes.
Stay updated on advancements in diagnostic testing and implement best practices.
Equipment & Inventory Management:
Oversee the maintenance, calibration, and validation of laboratory equipment.
Coordinate with service providers for repairs and preventive maintenance.
Manage inventory and procurement of laboratory reagents and consumables.
Collaboration & Reporting:
Work closely with clinical and operational teams to meet service delivery goals.
Prepare and present laboratory performance reports to management.
Ensure effective communication between laboratory teams and stakeholders.
Benefits
Qualifications
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science, Biomedical Science, or a related field. A Master’s degree in a relevant field is an advantage.
- Licensing: Registration with MLCSCZ (Medical Laboratory and Clinical Scientist Council of Zimbabwe) an advantage or a recognized medical laboratory board or council .
Experience
- Minimum of 3–5 years of hands-on experience in a diagnostic laboratory setting.
- Proven expertise in diagnostic assays such as, microbiology, haematology, or biochemistry, serology/immunology and molecular biology.
- Experience with laboratory accreditation processes and compliance with quality standards (e.g., ISO 15189, CAP).
Skills and Competencies
- Strong technical skills in diagnostic laboratory techniques and equipment.
- Analytical mindset with the ability to troubleshoot and optimize diagnostic workflows.
- Excellent organizational and time management skills to handle multiple projects.
- Strong communication skills for reporting results and collaborating with diverse teams.
- Leadership capabilities to guide and mentor junior staff.
Desired Attributes
- Experience working in diagnostic laboratories supporting infectious disease testing, clinical trials or vaccine research.
- Familiarity with high-throughput diagnostic platforms and automation.
Work Environment:
This position is be based in Harare, Zimbabwe, with occasional travel to other office locations as necessary. The role may require flexible working hours to support remote teams and ensure systems are running smoothly across time zones.
Please apply online providing a covering letter specifically highlighting how your existing skills and experiences support fulfilling the responsibilities of this role.
