Health and Safety Advisor Vacancy at The Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia

Medical Research Council Unit The Gambia - The MRC Unit The Gambia at London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) is one of two research units established in sub- Saharan Africa by the Medical Research Council UK and is the MRC Unit The Gambia at LSHTM’s single largest investment in medical research in a low and middle income country. MRC Unit The Gambia at LSHTM represents a unique concentration of scientific expertise and high quality research platforms in the West African region. We are recruiting to fill the position below:     Job Title: Health and Safety Advisor Location: Fajara, The Gambia Description

• We are looking for a Health and Safety Advisor to assist the Unit’s Biological Safety Office in the management of health and safety issues relating to biological agents/materials including those associated with Genetically Modified Organisms (GMOs)
• The post holder will undergo Biological Safety training and thereafter ensure that appropriate risk assessments are conducted for all biological work and that a report is submitted to Biological Safety Committee for review.
• The successful candidate will receive training from the Biosafety Unit at the University of Edinburgh and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine.

• M.Sc in Biomedical Sciences or other relevant area
• Minimum of 3 years’ experience working in biological safety duties or Biomedical laboratory
• Working knowledge of molecular biology, microbiology and general biomedical laboratory methods, procedures, latest techniques, facilities & equipment and good microbiological practices.
• The willingness and flexibility to manage and respond quickly and efficiently to unanticipated requests.
• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work within a team as well as a demonstrated ability to interact effectively and collegially with a diverse clientele daily.
• Ability to develop and deliver training programmes.
• Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications Word, Excel and PowerPoint.
• Willingness to travel to upcountry sites when required.
• Willingness to work flexibly as required.
• Knowledge and understanding of all relevant local and international laws, legislation and regulations, and standards for the use of biological agents.
• Knowledge of the transportation of biological materials.
• Ability to work independently, organize and prioritize work assignments.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills; ability to gather data, compile information and prepare reports.

• NEBOSH International General Certificate in Occupational Health and Safety Management.
• Good understanding of health and safety management procedures relating to biological safety.
• Demonstrated computer skills and proficiency with MS Office Suite.

• An attractive salary will be paid in MRCG’s Grade 3, 26 Points at a minimum take home pay of 46, 249 Dalasi per month. This is equivalent to $943 take home pay per month using the prevailing USD/Dalasi exchange rate. Please note the salary will be paid in Dalasi and the USD/Dalasi exchange rate is only given as a guide using the prevailing exchange rate.
• For displaced staff, the package will include, rent-free furnished accommodation, flights, displacement allowances, contribution to school fees for children and shipment of personal effects.

• We cannot accept applications from individuals who are currently or in the last six months employed by The Gambia Government
• The appointment is up to 31st March 2021 initially and is subject to a probationary period of 6 months