NGS, Lab Associate

Department
Genomic Medicine

Entity
Cancer Centre

Location
Nairobi, Kenya

Introduction

Chartered in 1983, Aga Khan University (AKU) is a private, autonomous, and self-governing international university, with 13 teaching sites in 6 countries over three continents. An integral part of the Aga Khan Development Network, AKU provides higher education in multiple health science and social science disciplines, carries out research pertinent primarily to low- and middle-income countries and operates 7 hospitals (soon 8) and over 325 outreach clinics, all at international standards. It has almost 2,500 students and 14,000 staff. The University is both a model of academic excellence and an agent of social change. As a leading international institution dedicated to excellence and change, AKU operates on the core principles of quality, relevance, impact, and access.

Job Summary

The incumbent will perform all tasks related to next generation sequencing including but not limited to:

1.         DNA and RNA isolation from blood samples, human tissues and other biological specimen

2.         Quantification and quality control of DNA and RNA using nanodrop and Qubit

3.         Library preparation of nucleic acid including fragmentation, adaptor ligation, amplification and sequencing on Illumina NGS platform 

4.         Secure and transfer data for primary, secondary and tertiary analysis

In addition, the incumbent will also be responsible for accurate logging, labelling using barcodes, documentation and proper storage of samples in appropriate temperature-controlled freezers.

The incumbent will be responsible for storage, maintenance and logging of reagents and consumables and maintain the inventory regularly. Finally, the incumbent will also train students, newly inducted staff members and faculty as needed.

Responsibilities

Sample Processing & Preparation         

• Accurate logging, labelling using barcodes, documentation and proper storage of samples in appropriate temperature-controlled freezers

• DNA and RNA isolation from blood samples, human tissues and other biological specimens.

• Quantification and quality control of DNA and RNA using nanodrop and Qubit

Library Preparation & Sequencing     

• Library preparation of nucleic acid including fragmentation, adaptor ligation, amplification and sequencing on Illumina NGS platform.

• Monitor sequencing runs and troubleshoot         

Quality Control & Assurance

• Secure and transfer data for primary, secondary and tertiary analysis

• Secure and transfer data for primary, secondary and tertiary analysis

• Assist faculty in research – Conduct experiments, analyse data and interpret results

• Assist in write-up, manuscripts, research reports, presentations, research grant applications and abstracts for publication and grant funding

• Responsible for assisting in preparing and assembling all standard operating procedures (SOPs) for NGS Core Facility

• Maintain and enhance bioinformatics pipelines and databases used in variant analysis.

• Implement best practices for data management, version control, and documentation.

• Evaluate new bioinformatics tools and methods to improve analysis accuracy and efficiency.

Laboratory Operations

• Raise PR and MSR for research supplies and consumables, liaise with purchase and AKU Warehouse departments to ensure timely delivery of the requested items and keep track records.

• Lodge complaints about breakdown of capital equipment used for lab research and follow-up with relevant department

• Engage in professional development activities such as lab training and attend departmental research and academic forums to keep abreast of current trends and practices

• Support development of central stock inventory and establishment of central store with the In Charge of this activity including ordering and follow-up

Requirements

• BSc or MSc in Molecular Biology/Biochemistry or relevant field.

Relevant Experience

• At least 3 years of work experience working in a genomic lab or similar field

• Familiar with various molecular techniques such as next-generation sequencing and impeccable attention to detail.

• Working knowledge in basic sciences with skills in laboratory techniques

Personal Characteristics & Behaviours

• Able to work accurately and efficiently, be detail oriented, and work both independently and within a group

• Ability to multitask several projects and work in fast paced environment

• Proven ability to work well with certain degree of autonomy and function successfully in a team environment

• Strong commitment to superior quality professional service 

• Good verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills

• Self-motivated and professional