Sr Research Asst

JOB SUMMARY

We are seeking a motivated and skilled Senior Research Assistant to join our team at the Infectious Disease Research Laboratory. The ideal candidate will have a strong background in bacteriology, excellent laboratory skills, and the ability to work independently and collaboratively on various research projects. This is an excellent opportunity for a detail-oriented individual to contribute to impactful research in infectious diseases.

MAIN DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Assist in the design, execution and analysis of research related to Bacteriology.
• Preparation, handling and processing of clinical samples.
• Advanced microbial techniques such as bacterial culture techniques (aerobic and anaerobic), isolation and identification of bacterial strains by colony morphology and MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry, and use of selective and differential media.
• Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing (AST) – Performing standard methods such as disk diffusion, broth microdilution, and E-test. Analyzing and interpreting antibiotic susceptibility profiles.
• Broth Dilution Techniques – Preparation and dilution of antibiotic solutions. Evaluating minimum inhibitory concentrations (MIC).
• Design and perform molecular assays, including DNA/RNA extraction, PCR/qPCR, gel electrophoresis and Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS).
• Assist in data analysis and management, preparing reports, and publications.
• Assist in the development, implementation and revision of standard operating procedure(s) and risk assessments for department.
• Assist in planning of study logistics, workflow, documentation and execution of new studies, liaising with internal and external parties as needed.
• Work closely with researchers and other team members to support ongoing projects.
• Train and mentor junior research assistants and interns in laboratory techniques and safety practices.
• Assist in general laboratory maintenance and perform other duties as directed by supervisors and HOD, including work areas not mentioned here.

JOB REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor’s or Master’s degree in Microbiology, Bacteriology, or a related field.  
• Minimum of 3-5 years of laboratory experience in bacteriology or microbiology clinical research.
• Proficiency in bacteriology laboratory techniques, including culture, identification, AST, and broth dilution.
• Experienced in working with common hospital bacteria such as MRSA, C. diff, E.coli, Pseudomonas aeruginosa, Klebsiella species, Enterococcus species and Acinetobacter baumannii.
• Hands-on experience with MALDI-TOF mass spectrometry is preferred.
• Familiarity with whole genome sequencing methodologies and bioinformatics analysis tools.
• Strong analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Good organizational skills and able to handle multiple tasks simultaneously.
• Proficient in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.