The National Biotechnology Authority (NBA) is an autonomous research and development institution with a mandate to develop Zimbabwe through the application of both conventional and cutting-edge biotechnologies. Established through the National Biotechnology Authority of Zimbabwe (NBA) Act of 2006 [Chap. 14: 31]. Its role is to transform the country from a raw material-based into a knowledge–based economy through the judicious application of biotechnology.
The RDI Department of the National Biotechnology Authority is seeking to employ a Senior Research Officer in Molecular Biology. Research Officers are critical members of all research teams in the Department. The incumbent will report to the Manager within the Department.
- Adopt and implement evolving Molecular technologies and methodologies that enhance and improve product development, and facilitate molecular diagnosis.
- Track technological advancements within areas of Molecular Biology (including Cell Biology) in order to facilitate disease diagnosis, value addition and product development.
- Carry out day-to-day activities related to Molecular Biology and Cell culturing (feeding, seeding, culturing cells).
- Utilise a variety of laboratory technologies, including gene expression, microscopy, plant cell culture, flow cytometry, cell culturing, cell imaging, cell transfection, and bioinformatics tools and software.
- Collect, evaluate, and distribute data following detailed protocols.
- Summarise experiments, manage experimental protocols, and analyse data.
- Manage multiple projects and deadlines within the organisation.
- Work independently or as a team, as appropriate, to accomplish specific research goals
- Maintain laboratory organisation and ensure compliance with best laboratory practices.
- Build solid relationships and communicate effectively with internal stakeholders.
- Assist the manager to supervise the team, including identifying and delegating project tasks.
- Participate in expanding our biorepository including the expansion and characterisation of our biobank.
- Research, compile, and evaluate background information to enhance planning and design of experiments and stay current in field of research.
- Establish and maintain standard operating procedures (SOPs) in Cell and Molecular Biology.
- Independently perform non-routine and complex research laboratory procedures and techniques.
- Execute assays utilising biological and chemical molecules, as well as perform data analysis to support diverse research projects.
- Utilise Good Documentation Practices in all record keeping maintaining metric data for work performed.
- Work collaboratively with other RDI teams in support of cross-functional institute alignment.
- Present research findings, either at conferences or through publications in reputable outlets appropriate to the discipline
- May be involved in the supervision, with guidance, of final year undergraduate research projects and in providing support to postgraduate research students or Research Assistants
- Minimum Education: Bachelor of Science Honours degree.
- Minimum Experience: 1 years of work experience in a Molecular Biology laboratory.
- Experience with molecular biology techniques and in vitro assays, including DNA/RNA extraction, qPCR, immunofluorescence, transfections, and Western blotting will be an added advantage.
- A track record of participating in peer-reviewed publications.
- In-depth knowledge of Cell and Molecular Biology including in vitro assays.
- Degree majors: Immunology; Pharmacology; Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Translational research
Interested applicants should submit their application letters and a detailed Curriculum Vitae to vacancies@nba.ac.zw not later than the 4th of November 2024, clearly labelled Senior Research Officer (Molecular Biology) in the subject line.