Senior Laboratory Microbiologist Job Vacancy in Brikama, Gambia – Healthcare & Medical Diagnostics

Job Description

Position: Senior Laboratory Microbiologist

Company: AMREF Health Africa

Location: Brikama, Gambia

Experience: 5+ years

Education: Master of Science in Microbiology

Employment Type: Full-time

Industry: Healthcare & Medical Diagnostics

Department: Clinical Laboratory Services

Salary: 45,000 – 75,000 SSP

Vacancies: 1

Company Overview

AMREF Health Africa is a leading international health organization dedicated to strengthening health systems across the African continent. With a profound commitment to improving healthcare access and quality, AMREF works closely with local governments and community leaders to implement sustainable health interventions. As a key player in the regional health landscape, the organization focuses on maternal and child health, infectious disease control, and laboratory strengthening. We are currently seeking highly skilled professionals to join our mission of transforming healthcare delivery through innovation and scientific excellence. This is a premier opportunity for those seeking meaningful career opportunities in Gambia within a globally recognized health institution.

Our mission is to empower communities to achieve better health outcomes through evidence-based practices and community-led initiatives. By joining our team, you become part of a legacy of excellence that spans decades of service across Africa. We pride ourselves on our rigorous scientific standards and our ability to integrate advanced diagnostic technologies into local healthcare settings. For more information on our global impact, please visit https://gambiajobsearch.com.

Job Overview

The Senior Laboratory Microbiologist will play a critical role in our diagnostic facility in Brikama. This position is designed for a high-level specialist capable of managing complex microbiological assays, overseeing laboratory quality management systems, and leading a team of technicians. The successful candidate will be responsible for identifying pathogenic organisms, conducting sensitivity testing, and ensuring that all diagnostic results meet international standards for accuracy and reliability. This role is vital for the early detection and management of infectious diseases within the region, contributing directly to public health surveillance and patient care outcomes.

As we continue to expand our diagnostic capabilities, this role will involve implementing new molecular diagnostic protocols and training junior staff members. We are looking for a professional who is not only technically proficient but also possesses the leadership qualities necessary to manage a high-pressure laboratory environment. This job vacancy in Gambia offers a unique chance to work at the intersection of clinical science and public health impact.

Key Responsibilities

• Perform advanced microbiological testing including culture, identification, and antibiotic susceptibility testing.
• Oversee the implementation and maintenance of Quality Management Systems (QMS) in accordance with ISO 15189 standards.
• Supervise and mentor laboratory technicians and junior microbiologists to ensure high performance.
• Manage laboratory inventory, including reagents, media, and specialized equipment maintenance.
• Interpret complex microbiological data and provide technical consultation to clinical staff.
• Lead biosafety and biosecurity protocols to ensure a safe working environment for all staff.
• Contribute to epidemiological surveillance by reporting significant pathogen trends to public health authorities.

Required Skills

• Advanced proficiency in manual and automated microbiological identification techniques.
• Expert knowledge of laboratory safety protocols and infectious disease management.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills regarding diagnostic discrepancies.
• Excellent leadership and team management capabilities.
• Proficiency in Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Strong communication skills for reporting and inter-departmental collaboration.

Education

Candidates must possess a Master of Science (MSc) in Microbiology, Medical Laboratory Science, or a closely related field. A PhD in a specialized microbiological discipline is highly preferred but not mandatory if accompanied by extensive clinical experience.

Experience

A minimum of 5 years of professional experience in a clinical or research microbiology laboratory is required. Proven experience in laboratory management, quality assurance, or supervising technical teams is essential for this senior-level position.

Salary

The monthly salary for this position ranges from 45,000 SSP to 75,000 SSP, depending on the candidate’s expertise and previous experience in the field.

Benefits

• Comprehensive health insurance coverage for the employee and immediate family.
• Performance-based annual bonuses.
• Professional development allowance for continuing education and certifications.
• Paid annual leave and sick leave.
• Commuter allowance for staff based in Brikama.

Training

• Advanced training in molecular diagnostics (PCR and sequencing).
• ISO 15189 Quality Management certification training.
• Leadership and management workshops for senior staff.

For professionals looking for international roles, check out https://rwandajobsearch.com/job-vacancy-in-rwanda/ for more options.

Working Environment

The working environment is a high-standard, controlled-access clinical laboratory. The role requires working in a sterile environment with strict adherence to biosafety level 2 (BSL-2) or higher protocols. While the primary work is laboratory-based, occasional field visits to community health centers may be required to assist with diagnostic training.

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their updated CV and a cover letter detailing their relevant experience through our official recruitment portal. We are looking for candidates who demonstrate a passion for public health and scientific excellence. Please ensure all certifications are ready for verification upon request. This is one of many employment in Gambia opportunities we are currently facilitating.

For more diverse job listings across the continent, visit https://somaliajobsearch.com/.

Equal Opportunity Statement

AMREF Health Africa is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, or disability status.