icddr,b is a Bangladesh-based international health research institute that strives to solve key public health problems through high-quality scientific research and innovation. As a values-based organization, icddr, b encourages women and people with disabilities to apply.

The Emerging Infections and Parasitology Laboratory works on enteric pathogens and parasitic infections along with vector-borne diseases in humans including malaria, leishmaniasis, dengue, Japanese Encephalitis, enteric protozoan, and helminth infection. This laboratory also conducts wastewater surveillance studies which include various laboratory methods to detect measles, flu, SASR-CoV-2 and Respiratory viruses etc. in wastewater which can infer transmission dynamics of the respective diseases caused by the corresponding pathogens in the associated catchment areas. The laboratory scientists conduct research and activities as principal investigators, co-principal investigators, and co-investigators, collaborating with national and international institutes/universities and with different Divisions of icddr, b. This unit also works on anti-parasitic drug discovery, diagnostic kit evaluation, G6PD deficiency, and new therapeutic and vaccine trials.

Position Description:
The Senior Research Officer will report to the Assistant Scientist and will be responsible for planning, organizing and implementing all activities related to lab research of different projects to conduct high-quality research and implement the project activities within the strategy of research protocol as well as organizational values and guidelines. S/he will be involved in –

• Understand protocols developed by PI; Analyze protocol for feasibility of field implementation; Provide inputs on protocol and methodologies;
• Review protocol for adherence to qualitative research principles and make appropriate suggestions to support the creation of proposals and protocols with funding potential.
• Proper understanding of wastewater surveillance works and transmission dynamics.
• Perform Blueline tracing to select collection sites and appropriate knowledge of wastewater surveillance workflows and understanding of GIS tools (ArcGIS or QGIS) usages.
• Perform molecular detection, identification, and quantification of the pathogen by ELISA, PCR (both conventional and real-time), and TaqMan Array Card.
• Perform target amplicon-based sequencing (NGS) to sequence the vast targets found in the wastewater.
• Use appropriate PPE (Personal Protective Equipment)/take bio-safety measures while conducting tests in the laboratory.
• Prepare reports based on results and maintain strict confidentiality.
• Perform in-house maintenance and calibration of complex laboratory equipment like PCR machines, ELISA readers, centrifuge machines, etc.,
• Carry out minor trouble shooting; maintain equipment maintenance records; validate maintenances performed by junior staffs;
• Maintain electronic inventory for laboratory samples, and supplies, track consumptions, and prepare reports,
• Write an initial report, based on one’s analysis, experience, and understanding of the work;
• Ability to manage and validate CFR forms and ODK needed for the surveillance works.
• Discuss all team members on initial reports together for consensus on findings;
• Review the manuscript written by the Research Investigator and provide feedback to support scientific manuscript creation.
• Train other staff on quality processes;
• Promote a spirit of collegiality and gender diversity amongst team members and in the organization;

Required qualifications and experience:

• MSc (Hons.) in Zoology from a reputed university with good academic records; Candidates having experience in the field of Environmental Surveillance will get preference.
• At least 5 years of experience in a relevant field;

Location: Mohakhali, Dhaka

Contract Type and Duration:

• Fixed Term Contract; duration will be 1 year with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds and performance.

Salary & benefits:

• Annual Tk.909,360/- inclusive of house rent and conveyance allowances and other admissible benefits.
• 14.8% provident fund contribution, income tax paid by icddr,b, children allowance @Tk.1,917/- per child per month, festival bonus, contributory healthcare support including dependent spouse and children, group life insurance, and subsidized canteen. Transport and daycare facilities are subject to space availability.

Notes of attention:

• Only short-listed candidates shall be invited for written test /interview.
• icddr,b does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process.

Interested candidates who fulfil the requirements should submit online applications using icddr,b website: career.icddrb.org by August 31, 2024.