Laboratory Technologist

Role Overview

This position centres on the day-to-day laboratory operations that keep clinical research studies reliable and compliant. You will handle biological samples from the moment they are collected through processing, storage, and final disposal, while maintaining the documentation that proves every step followed protocol. Your attention to detail directly supports the integrity of study data and the safety of everyone in the lab.

Key Responsibilities

• Receive, accession, and process biological specimens according to each study's protocol, verifying sample integrity and labelling before any testing or storage begins.
• Operate and maintain laboratory equipment used in sample preparation, ensuring calibration checks and routine maintenance are completed and logged.
• Maintain accurate chain-of-custody records, specimen logs, and electronic tracking systems so that every sample can be traced from collection to disposal without gaps.
• Perform daily quality control checks on reagents, kits, and equipment, documenting results and escalating any out-of-range findings to the supervisor.
• Review generated laboratory data for transcription errors, missing values, or protocol deviations, and work with study coordinators to resolve discrepancies.
• Monitor consumable stock levels and coordinate with procurement to ensure reagents, tubes, and PPE are available without interruption to study timelines.
• Follow all biosafety and waste disposal procedures, including proper segregation, decontamination, and documentation of hazardous and biohazardous materials.
• Attend protocol training sessions and contribute to continuous quality improvement initiatives by identifying workflow bottlenecks or recurring documentation issues.

Requirements & Qualifications

• Diploma in Medical Laboratory Science, Biomedical Science, or a directly related discipline from a recognised institution.
• Current registration with the Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologists Board (KMLLTB) as a laboratory technologist or technician.
• At least two years of hands-on experience in a clinical diagnostic laboratory or a clinical research laboratory setting.
• Demonstrated understanding of Good Clinical Laboratory Practice (GCLP), standard operating procedures, and laboratory safety principles.
• Working knowledge of sample handling, specimen preservation, and safe transport requirements for human biological materials.
• Certification or supplementary training in HIV testing or molecular diagnostics will be considered an advantage.
• Strong documentation discipline, with the ability to maintain meticulous records under deadline pressure and during high-volume sample processing periods.
• Effective communication skills in English, with the capacity to collaborate closely with nurses, clinicians, and research coordinators.