ASSISTANT LABORATORY MANAGER

The Minimal Invasive Tissue Sampling (MITS) procedure used by CHAMPS was developed to reduce the uncertainty regarding causes of death. The data collected from the CHAMPS Sierra Leone site will be added to those from the other eight (8) sites and will help reduce child deaths in LMICs by providing detailed evidence on the cause of death to influence policy of donors and stakeholders.

Beginning from the 2025/26 financial year, The Africa Research Collaborative (The ARC), a local NGO in Sierra Leone, has been tasked to support the direct implementation of the CHAMPS programme in Sierra Leone, with initial support from Deloitte, Ghana. As a dedicated group of African researchers, the ARC aims to generate robust local evidence that informs national policies, health guidelines, and service delivery practices. We work collaboratively with governments and health partners to ensure that our research findings lead to culturally appropriate and sustainable solutions. With a long-term, infinite mindset, we manage resources wisely to create an enduring platform that empowers individuals and communities to thrive.

The ARC is seeking dedicated employees who are humble, hungry and people-smart, and who are deadly committed to our collective mission.

More information about the CHAMPS project can be found at https://CHAMPShealth.org/ and more about the ARC at www.theARChealth.org 

This position will be placed in Maken Office.

The department ensures adherence to rigorous biosafety standards, conducts pathogen detection using molecular, microbiological, and histopathological techniques, and contributes to data quality by collaborating closely with epidemiologists and data teams. 

Laboratory findings are integrated with clinical and verbal autopsy data to establish causes of death, ultimately informing public health interventions and policies aimed at reducing child mortality.

• Lab Operations Support
• Assist in coordinating daily laboratory activities and supervising staff.
• Ensure smooth workflow and adherence to safety protocols.
• Support onboarding and training of new personnel.

2. Quality Officer Duties

• Develop, implement, and monitor quality management systems (QMS).
• Conduct internal audits and prepare for external inspections (ISO 15189, GLP etc.).
• Maintain SOPs, ensure compliance with regulatory standards, and oversee corrective/preventive actions.
• Train staff on quality assurance practices and documentation requirements.

3. Biorepository Management

• Oversee the collection, cataloging, storage, and retrieval of biological samples.
• Ensure proper labeling, tracking, and chain-of-custody documentation.
• Maintain biorepository databases and ensure sample integrity through controlled storage conditions.
• Coordinate with laboratory team for sample distribution and usage.
• Implement biosafety and ethical guidelines for sample handling.

4. Reporting & Documentation

• Prepare reports on lab performance, quality metrics, and biorepository status.
• Maintain accurate records for audits, compliance checks, and research support.
• Provide updates to senior management and external stakeholders when required.                           

• Aware of and adhere to organization quality standards and procedures in accordance with The ARC commitment to working to the highest quality standards and striving for continual improvement

• Be aware of and compliant with all the standards following Safeguarding procedures and policies. 
• Promote The ARC’s speak up culture in order to protect the welfare of children, young people and vulnerable adults.

• As stipulated in the Policy and Authorities SOP

• Bachelor’s or master’s degree in Life Sciences, Biotechnology, or related field.
• Experience in laboratory management, quality assurance, and biorepository operations.
• Strong knowledge of regulatory standards, especially ISO 15189.
• Proficiency with LIMS and biorepository management systems.
• Excellent organizational, leadership, and communication skills.
• A minimum of National Diploma in Medical Laboratory Science is required.
• Able to meet deadlines and multi-task as well as work under pressure.  
• Must possess excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
• Must have experience with data entry and computers.

Desirable

• GLP (Good Laboratory Practice)  
• Knowledge of QMS (Quality management system)
• Willingness to work extended hours, as required  
• Decision making  
• Focus on delivery service  
• Drive for continuous improvement  
• Good communication and teamwork  
• High levels of flexibility required 
• Ability to work under pressure 
• Respect for project deadlines