Medical Laboratory Scientist - Stem Cell

Company Description

The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE) in partnership with King's College Hospital London (KCH) is seeking talented individuals to fill the role of Medical Laboratory Scientist - Stem Cell.

The African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja), a multi-specialty medical institution developed by Afreximbank in partnership with King's College Hospital London (KCH) aims to revolutionize healthcare in Africa. Established to address critical gaps, the AMCE Abuja is committed to providing world-class care through innovative research, development, and education. The partnership with King's College Hospital ensures global expertise, world-class clinical training, research, and professional development. The Centre will offer comprehensive services in oncology, haematology, cardiovascular care, and general healthcare across the continent, with plans for expansion. The construction phase, supported by global partners, precedes a phased rollout over six years, evolving into a 500-bed facility.

Set to commence operations in early 2025, this flagship facility in Abuja is a key part of Afreximbank’s network of healthcare facilities, actively countering brain drain, reducing medical tourism by offering advanced procedures such as stem cell transplantation and state-of-the-art treatments for various diseases, and fostering employment opportunities. The vision for the AMCE initiative is to shape a healthier and more educated future for Africa.

Job Description

Job Purpose:

The Medical Laboratory Scientist – Stem Cell is responsible for executing, managing, and optimizing experiments related to stem cell biology, cellular reprogramming, differentiation, and regenerative medicine. The role holder is expected to conduct technical laboratory examinations, data analysis, and collaborate within a multidisciplinary research environment.

Core Responsibilities:

Experimental Design and Execution:

• Develop detailed experimental plans for stem cell research projects, including hypothesis formulation, protocol development, and timeline management.
• Optimize protocols for stem cell isolation, culture, expansion, differentiation, and maintenance.
• Perform advanced cell culture techniques, including maintenance of pluripotent and adult stem cell lines.
• Conduct cellular reprogramming using methods such as Yamanaka factors, episomal vectors, or chemical reprogramming.
• Differentiate stem cells into specific cell types (e.g., neurons, cardiomyocytes, hepatocytes) using established and novel protocols.
• Apply gene-editing techniques such as CRISPR/Cas9 for functional studies.
• Conduct immunocytochemistry, flow cytometry, and high-throughput screening assays to evaluate cellular phenotypes.

Quality Assurance and Laboratory Compliance:

• Ensure consistent and high-quality stem cell cultures by monitoring cell morphology, proliferation, and viability.
• Perform routine mycoplasma and contamination checks.
• Maintain compliance with institutional, national, and international ethical standards and guidelines (e.g., GMP, FDA, HFEA).
• Prepare and update risk assessments, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and safety protocols.
   

Data Collection and Analysis:

• Collect, document, and manage experimental data using electronic laboratory notebooks and data management software.
• Perform statistical analysis of experimental data to identify trends and validate hypotheses.
• Use bioinformatics tools for omics data analysis, including RNA-seq and single-cell sequencing data.
• Prepare detailed reports and visualizations of experimental findings for internal and external presentations.

Collaboration and Communication:

• Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams, including molecular biologists, bioinformaticians, and clinicians, to achieve project goals.
• Participate in lab meetings, brainstorming sessions, and collaborative research initiatives.
• Prepare research reports, grant applications, and manuscripts for peer-reviewed publications.
• Present findings at scientific conferences and symposiums.

Laboratory Management and Mentorship:

• Oversee laboratory inventory, including ordering and maintaining stocks of reagents, consumables, and equipment.
• Ensure proper maintenance and calibration of laboratory instruments.
• Train and supervise junior scientists, technicians, and interns in stem cell research techniques.
• Provide guidance and feedback to ensure the quality and reproducibility of experiments.

Qualifications

Educational Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in  Microbiology, Medical Laboratory Science, Biology, Chemistry, Biochemistry or a related field
• Master’s degree in a related field is an added advantage.

Professional Requirements

• Certification as a Technologist or Specialist in Microbiology is an added advantage

Experience Requirements

• 1-4 years of experience in a stem cell laboratory setting, demonstrating progressive responsibility and expertise.
• Experience with advanced cell culture techniques (e.g., stem cell isolation, differentiation, characterization).
• Experience with molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry).

Competency Requirements

Knowledge Requirements

• Deep knowledge of stem cell biology, including types of stem cells, their properties, and their potential applications.
• Expertise in advanced cell culture techniques, including stem cell isolation, culture, differentiation, and characterization.
• Strong understanding of molecular biology techniques such as PCR, flow cytometry, immunohistochemistry, and gene expression analysis.
• Knowledge of research design, data analysis, and scientific writing.
• Understanding of ethical and regulatory issues related to stem cell research.
• Knowledge of current advancements and trends in stem cell research.

Skill Requirements

• Technical Skills
• Analytical and Problem-Solving Skills
• Communication Skills
• Interpersonal Skills
• Attention to Detail
• Critical Thinking Skills
• Organizational Skills

Personal Abilities

• Professional attitude towards work.
• Shares the AMCE’s vision.
• Proactive and organized.
• Has personal and professional credibility and commands the respect of colleagues and peers. 
• Supportive and approachable and capable of inspiring confidence in staff members.
• Ability to adapt accordingly.
• High levels of honesty and integrity.

Additional Information

African Medical Centre of Excellence, Abuja (AMCE Abuja) aims to be an Employer of Choice, providing equal opportunity for everyone regardless of their background, gender, race and other protected characteristics. We welcome applications from qualified applicants across Africa