Laboratory Technician – Histopathology Laboratory

Médecins Sans Frontières

JOB VACANCY
MEDECINS SANS FRONTIERES FRANCE –BLANTYRE
Médecins Sans Frontières is a private, non-profit international humanitarian organization dedicated to providing medical assistance to populations in crisis, without discrimination and regardless of race, religion, creed or political affiliation. In Malawi, MSF works in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and the local community in Cervical Cancer projects Blantyre districts.
MSFF is looking for its Blantyre Cervical Cancer Project Office:
LABORATORY TECHNICIAN – HISTOPATHOLOGY LABORATORY
Workplace: Queen Elizabeth Central hospital, Blantyre
Type of contract: 1-year fixed term with the possibility of renewal
Start date: September 2026
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.
Accountabilities
  • 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.
    • Embeding 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 operatimng procedures.
    • Carry out Cytology fluid procedures.
    • Carry out Decalcification
    • Perform Cytological stains (PAP and DIFF QUICK).
    • Perform Hematoxylin and eosin stains
    • Prepaire 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.
9. Carry out all laboratory internal and external quality control procedures.
10. Support OPD and HPV Laboratories on demand.
Requirements
Education
  • Laboratory Technician diploma or degree.
Experience
  • Minimum 1 year working experience essential.
Languages
  • English and chichewa.
Knowledge
  • Essential computer literacy (word, excel and internet)
Competencies
  • Results, teamwork, flexibility, commitment, service
How to apply
Click here to apply or Scan the QR code below.
The closing date for receiving applications is Friday 28th August 2026
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
MSF offers equal recruitment and development opportunities without any form of discrimination based on gender, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, geographical origin, physical disability or any other discriminatory ground.
Female candidates who meet the requirements are strongly encouraged to apply.
MSF is committed to applying Safe Recruitment principles, ensuring transparent, fair, and respectful recruitment processes that protect candidates, the organization, and its beneficiaries.
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.
N.B.: This job description provides a framework for the main responsibilities and primary activities of the position. It is not exhaustive.