Laboratory Technician (Histopathology)

JOB VACANCY

MEDECINS SANS FRONTIERES FRANCE –BLANTYRE

 Médecins Sans Frontières (MSF) is a non-profit, independent international humanitarian organization committed to delivering medical aid to populations facing crises, with a steadfast commitment to impartiality and without regard to race, religion, creed, or political affiliation. In Malawi, MSF collaborates closely with the Ministry of Health and the local community, particularly in the Cervical Cancer project in the Blantyre district, as well as the CBO Project in Zalewa and Dedza District.

MSFF is looking for its Blantyre Cervical Cancer Project Office:

LABORATORY TECHNICIAN (HISTOPATHOLOGY) – 1 POSITION 

Workplace                   :        Queen Elizabeth Central Hospital (QECH) Blantyre

Type of contract        :        1 Year Fixed Term Contract with possibility of extension

Start date                      :    July 2024

Main purpose of the position

Perform histological techniques and all related laboratory activities to the highest standards, following MSF protocols and adhering to biosafety rules to provide reliable results to guide patient management.

Main Responsibilities

• According to the test request form, prepare and carry out the appropriate procedures, respecting MSF agreed upon standard operating procedures and observing good laboratory practice.
• Carry out the appropriate internal and external quality control activities for the tests and procedures in the laboratory.
• Work in observance of biosafety rules and contribute to a safe working environment in the laboratory by working together with all team members to promote safe laboratory practices.
• Applying hygiene and safety protocols, doing daily cleaning /maintenance, sterilization, washing general glassware after procedures are done.
• Ensuring proper reporting and registration of the sample results to keep a written track of activity and give information to the relevant people, ensuring confidentiality.
• Taking care, manage and organize efficiently the laboratory material/equipment:
• Perform cleaning and user maintenance activities for biomedical equipment used. Following the user manual and protocols and alert supervisor in case of malfunctioning
• Ensuring proper sample waste disposal according to MSF protocols and highest safety standards.
• Contribute to ensure uninterrupted laboratory service by participating in preparing timely supply orders, performing stock counts, ensuring good storage conditions, and following up the inventory.
• Work with the lab manager and supervisor to Keep an organized data collection system of laboratory results and all information generated from the analysis done.
• Reporting all relevant information linked to the activity in the laboratory to the line manager, especially the loss/robbery/damage of laboratory equipment or medicines.
• Contribute to the realization of the MSF long-term vision by active participation in meetings and events.

Specific Accountabilities

1. Receives specimens when delivered to the Laboratory
2. Sorts specimens according to priority and difficulty of procedures and records in reception register.
3. Records number of tissue blocks verifying proper identification and label.
4. Assists the Pathologist in gross examination of surgical specimens and in frozen section Procedures.
5. Performing all routine and special procedures which may include but is not limited to:
   • Fixing, grossing, and processing the tissue for proper sample preservation.
   • Embedding specimens into blocks.
   • Operating and maintaining all histology area lab equipment in proper state of readiness and cleanliness.
   • Operating equipment for tissue dehydration, section clearing, impregnation with paraffin, cutting tissue sections, and staining of slides.
   • Preparing solutions, stains, and reagents in accordance with the standard operating procedures.
   • Carry out Cytology fluid procedures.
   • Carry out Decalcification
   • Perform Cytological stains (PAP and DIFF QUICK).
   • Perform Hematoxylin and eosin stains
   • Prepare Stock solutions
   • Perform Fixative preparation
   • Carry out Microorganism stains

6. Recognize factors that affect procedures and quality results, and in collaboration with team members take appropriate action when corrections are necessary.
7. Perform preventative and corrective maintenance of equipment and instruments.
8. Perform and monitor inventory of supplies, equipment, and reagents used, and places orders for replacements as required.

Requirements

How to Apply

Applicants meeting the requirements are encouraged to send their Cover Letter, Updated CV, ID Copy, and relevant certificates to the Human Resources Manager at Médecins sans Frontières France through email to  msff-blantyre-recruitment@paris.msf.org. Please use the subject line “LABORATORY TECHNICIAN (HISTOPATHOLOGY), Your Full Name,” and ensure that each file is appropriately labelled, such as “CV – (Name)”. Please note that incomplete applications will not be considered.

Closing date for receiving applications is Friday, 28^th June 2024 Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

MSF is an equal opportunity employer: all applicants will be equally considered under the same criteria and expectations. MSF does not charge any application/recruitment or training fees: if ever you are requested to pay any amount to process your application or access employment with MSF, do not pay and please inform the MSF administration on email:  msff-blantyre-recruitment@paris.msf.org as soon as possible.