The Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia is one of the largest scientific research centres in sub-Saharan Africa, with an international reputation for ground-breaking research into some of the leading causes of morbidity and mortality in the tropics. Our overall goal is to improve the health of people in developing countries by aiming for excellence in research, healthcare, and training. Our research program spans basic scientific research, clinical studies, epidemiological studies and intervention trials, and translational research. The field and laboratory-based work draws on excellent research and clinical facilities and attracts international funding.
The Unit, led by Professor Umberto D’Alessandro, receives an MRC core investment grant every 5 years, following the review of past activities and future plans. In addition, all research activities are supported by external grants from a variety of sources. The Unit has a turnover of in excess of £22m per annum and employs about 1500 staff.
The post-holder will manage the vector biology and malaria laboratories, providing scientific expertise to support externally funded projects as well as conducting research to strengthen core capabilities in vector-borne diseases. The post holder will function as the Unit Vector Biologist and ensure that the platform exploits cutting edge technologies to strengthen the Unit’s research portfolio in close collaboration with principal investigators and external funders. The post holder will ensure that all users of the laboratories receive appropriate training, advice, and guidance in vector-borne transmission studies.
A PhD qualification in a relevant subject is required. In addition, significant experience working in a medical research laboratory environment and experience in a senior laboratory management role is required. In addition, experience running entomology laboratory facilities and significant experience in vector biology with expertise in arthropods that transmit human and/or zoonotic pathogens are required.
This post is fixed term until 31 March 2025 and full-time, 35 hours per week (1.0 FTE).
The salary will be on the Professional Services salary Grade 7 in the range of £47,405 – £54,267 per annum (inclusive). The post is subject to LSHTM terms and conditions of service. Annual leave entitlement is 30 working days per year. In addition, there are discretionary “Wellbeing Days”. Membership of the pension scheme is available. Free-furnished residential accommodation is provided and a package of overseas allowances is available. The post is available immediately.
Applications should be made online via our website at http://jobs.lshtm.ac.uk. Online applications will be accepted by the automated system until 10 pm on the closing date. Any queries regarding the application process may be addressed to [email protected]. Please quote reference MRC-MRC-2022-05.
The supporting statement section should set out succinctly how your qualifications, experience, and training meet each of the selection criteria. The supporting statement is an essential part of the selection process and thus a failure to provide this information will mean that the application will not be considered. An answer to any of the criteria such as “Please see attached CV” will not be considered acceptable.
Please note that if you are shortlisted and are unable to attend on the interview date it may not be possible to offer you an alternative date.
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