Job opportunities at the MRC

Medical Technologist

Clinical Pathology (x2 posts)

HIV Prevention Research Unit
Durban
One year contract

The HPRU Central Routine laboratory requires qualified and experienced Medical Technologists to manage the data required for the efficient functioning and smooth running of the laboratory in order to meet statutory and clinical requirements and produce quality data. The following criteria are required:

• Set-up of Clinical Pathology testing component under the  HPRU Central Routine Laboratory in accordance to SANAS, GCP, DAIDS, CFR part 21 and GCLP
• Perform laboratory investigations in all Clinical Pathology disciplines for all trails undertaken by the HPRU.
• Check , interpret and verify all test and quality control results; in terms of SOPS, monitoring quality at all times
• Ensure proper maintenance of all equipment and trouble shooting.
• Ensure strict quality control on all tests and techniques employed, good understanding of quality control tools eg LJ graphs, Westgard rules, trend analysis.
• Ensure safety regulations are stringently adhered to and participate in after hours duties;
• Ensure that quality services are supplied to protocol and studies under HPRU by managing daily bench workload and bench stock control to obtain maximized outcomes.
• Comply with policies, standard operating procedures  and quality control of the  HPRU Central  Routine Lab as well as the Occupational Health and Safety Act under the MRC
• Verification and reporting of results (interpreting where applicable) and ensuring that results are delivered timeously to sites.
• Undertake trouble shooting wherever necessary e.g. identifying and solving technical and conceptual problems and reporting bench challenges to Senior Med Techs and Central lab co-ordinator.
• Corrective Action when necessary in consultation with senior Med Tech and Central lab Co-Ordinator.
• Knowledge of  research and development (R&D) to assess the appropriateness of tests to improve existing laboratory tests and to develop new tests and techniques in order to optimize and improve the provision of diagnostic services
• Performance of validation and proficiencies applicable to Clinical Pathology
• Play a pivotal role in accreditation requirements in the laboratory.
• Establishing normal values where required and performance verification standards
• Adhering to the Internal and External QC programmes set-up for the HPRU Central Routine Lab, daily assessment of QCs, monthly QC outloads and troubleshooting.
• Maintain and provide monthly Stock control at bench level
• Maintenance of accurate systematic documentation system applicable to the Clinical Pathology benches.
• Be available to work shift , overtime and weekends[ if the need arises]
• General assistance to Central Lab Manager when required
• Back-up to clinical trial sites when need arises.

Candidates must meet the following requirements:

• National Diploma in Biomedical Technology with 3 years experience in the category Clinical Pathology, a BTech Degree would be an added advantage.
• Proof of Current Registration with the Health Professions Council of SA in Clinical Pathology Independent Practice- to be submitted with CV.
• Routine diagnostic and Research laboratory experience in Clinical Pathology, Ability to troubleshoot, Knowledge of Standard Operating Procedures
• Good Clinical Laboratory Practice [GCLP] and IATA will be an added advantage.

A total cost to company remuneration package of R247 518 – R262 975 per annum will be negotiated in accordance with qualifications and relevant experience.

In accordance with the MRC’s Employment Equity Plan, preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates from the designated groups. For this reason we require Race, Gender and Disability status to be specified. Disabled persons are encouraged to apply.

Closing date: 13 February 2012

Please quote the reference number: “R457” in your subject line of your e-mail, CV and all other communications. If it does not appear in the subject line, then your application/CV will not be considered. Certified copies of your ID and highest formal qualifications must be submitted with this application. Should your application not contain the required information and documents, it will also unfortunately not be considered.

Should no feedback be received within 30 days of the closing date,
kindly consider your application as unsuccessful.
The MRC retains the right not to make an appointment.