Position: Laboratory Manager

Job Type: Full-time

Location: UVRI Entebbe, Uganda

Deadline: 1st April 2024 – 5:00 PM

Overview: The Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) in collaboration with the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention is recruiting a qualified and experienced Laboratory Manager. The role involves overseeing the day-to-day operations of the HIV Reference Laboratory (HRL) to strengthen diagnostic laboratory services and support the national laboratory systems.

Key Responsibilities:

1. Administrative Management and Technical Supervision:
   • Oversee and manage all laboratory sections.
   • Develop orientation/training programs for new employees.
   • Ensure staff compliance with guidelines and procedures.
   • Maintain data integrity and security.
   • Handle quality assurance data and accreditation information.
   • Resolve staff complaints and escalate unresolved issues.
2. Technical Assistance to Other Implementers and Stakeholders:
   • Coordinate activities for maintaining various accreditations.
   • Provide quality assurance oversight for testing and PT panel productions.
   • Liaise with stakeholders to address underperformance and improve activities.
   • Support initiatives for strengthening CDC laboratory programs.
   • Represent UVRI on institutional committees and in scientific meetings.
   • Participate in monitoring and evaluation of partner sites.
3. Other Duties:
   • Serve as a member and advisor on the USG technical working group.
   • Participate in in-country committees for laboratory systems strengthening.
   • Perform any other duties assigned by the Project Director.

Qualifications:

• Minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Medical Laboratory Science.
• Master’s degree in Biomedical or Laboratory Science, and a Diploma in Management (added advantage).
• Currently licensed by the Allied Health Professionals Council (AHPC).

Skills and Abilities:

• Strong oral and written communication skills.
• Ability to understand and discuss quality assurance program data.
• Conflict resolution and problem-solving skills.
• Collaborative and teamwork abilities.
• Good knowledge in biosafety, biosecurity, and infection control.
• Leadership skills to manage a laboratory technical team.

Working Experience:

• Minimum of five years of experience as a Lab Manager, preferably at the national reference or internationally accredited laboratory level.
• Membership on relevant national technical working groups.

How to Apply: Interested candidates should submit their applications, including copies of academic certificates, transcripts, CV, and names of two work-related referees with their contacts to the Director, UVRI, either by email (directoruvri@uvri.go.ug) or hand-delivered to Plot 51-59, Nakiwogo Road, Entebbe. The deadline for applications is 1st April 2024, 5:00 PM.

Note: Only short-listed candidates will be contacted. The salary for this position is attractive.