Medical Laboratory Scientist/Microbiologist

Job Description

Job Purpose

The Medical Laboratory Scientist/Microbiologist will be responsible for identifying and characterizing microorganisms that cause infectious diseases, contributing to the diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of infections in patients. These responsibilities will revolve around four main areas which are patient focus, microbiological expertise, clinical collaboration and safety.

Core Responsibilities 

Microbiological Testing and Analysis:

• Isolate, cultivate, and identify microorganisms from various clinical specimens (blood, urine, sputum, etc.) using a variety of techniques, including culture methods, microscopy, and molecular diagnostics.
• Interpret laboratory results and provide clear and concise reports to clinicians, including the identification of the causative organism and recommendations for appropriate antimicrobial therapy.
• Advise on infection control measures within the hospital or healthcare setting to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
• Store the samples while maintaining the quality and the status of the samples to extend their lifetime and comply with the time and temperature guidelines.
• Stay updated on the latest advancements in medical microbiology and participate in research activities to improve diagnostic methods and develop new strategies for infection prevention and control.

Diagnostic Interpretation and Reporting:

• Analyze laboratory results, including culture results, antimicrobial susceptibility patterns, and other relevant data, to identify the causative organism of infection.
• Correlate laboratory findings with the patient's clinical presentation, medical history, and other relevant clinical information.
• Based on laboratory findings and clinical information, formulate a preliminary diagnosis of the infectious disease.
• Prepare clear, concise, and accurate laboratory reports that include the identification of the organism, antimicrobial susceptibility results, and any relevant observations.
• Communicate laboratory results and interpretations to clinicians effectively, either verbally or in writing, to facilitate appropriate patient management.

Quality Control and Assurance:

• Conducting daily, weekly, or monthly quality control checks on laboratory equipment and reagents to ensure the accuracy and reliability of test results.
• Participating in the regular maintenance and calibration of laboratory equipment according to manufacturer's instructions and established protocols.
• Strictly adhering to established SOPs for all laboratory procedures to ensure consistency, accuracy, and safety.
• Following proper safety protocols, including the use of personal protective equipment (PPE) such as gloves, lab coats, and eye protection.
• Handling hazardous materials safely, including proper disposal of biohazardous waste.

Infection Control and Prevention:

• Advise on infection control measures within the hospital or healthcare setting to prevent the spread of infectious diseases.
• Surveillance and Outbreak Investigation: Monitor trends in infectious diseases within the healthcare facility and community.
• Assist in the investigation and control of outbreaks of infectious diseases, such as nosocomial infections.

Result Reporting, Regulation and Compliance:

• Reported Laboratory Results: Take note of laboratory results carefully on the appropriate forms, be they manual or digital, ensuring all entries are captured in full.
• Results Confirmation: Hold consultations with the radiologists who performed the imaging, when required, so they can compare the results with the history for accuracy and relevance.
• Preliminary Results Interpretation: Within the set practices, provide a basic analysis of the results, so as not to mislead physicians unduly, important values or striking outcomes should be flagged for further investigation.
• Result Deliveries: Give the results to the asking physician or his representative in a distinct way within the stipulated time and follow the required communication protocols.
• Data Protection Laws: Protect patient privacy and ensure that clinic data and lab results are processed and stored in accordance with data protection laws of the organization and Nigeria at larger.

Qualifications

Educational Requirements:

• Bachelor’s degree in Microbiology, Medical Laboratory Science, Pathology
• 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’ progressive experience as a specialist in the field.
• Strong track record in safety maintenance and Test Accuracy & Precision

Knowledge Requirements:

• Deep understanding of human anatomy, physiology, and pathophysiology is crucial for interpreting test results and understanding disease processes.
• Knowledge of biochemical pathways, metabolism, and the role of enzymes in various bodily functions.
• Microbiology: In-depth knowledge of bacteria, viruses, fungi, parasites, and their role in human disease

Skills Requirements:

• Equipment Maintenance and accurate usage.
• Diagnostic Skills: Ability to accurately diagnose equipment malfunctions and identify root causes of problems.
• Safety Awareness: Strong awareness of safety protocols and procedures in a hospital environment.

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.