Laboratory Technician Job Vacancy- Soil/plant chemistry/biology/pests and diseases

Job title: Laboratory Technician: Soil/plant chemistry/biology/pests and diseases

Reports to: Lead Scientists on soil/plant/chemistry/biology/ pests and diseases

Overall Purpose:
Independently employs a broad knowledge of principles, practices and procedures in soil/plant/chemistry/biology/ pests and diseases to plan and conduct research studies and to promote findings on soil, plant pests and diseases management and utilization technologies for agricultural production. Routinely contributes to scientific research in partnership with thematic multi-disciplinary research teams as well as national, regional and international collaborators to develop new or improved technologies, systems, methods and policies aimed at increasing agricultural productivity, eradicating poverty and promoting conservation as well as sustainable use of natural resources.

Core Duties and Responsibilities:
• In collaboration with researchers, support and conduct research in soil/plant/chemistry/biology/pests and diseases following specified research methodology
• Carry-out laboratory preparation, testing and analysis of soil, plant tissue samples, including pests and diseases
• Observing quality control procedures and good laboratory practice
• Performing soil/plant/pests and diseases analysis for detailed survey and management purposes
• Organising and processing of laboratory data in spreadsheets prior to detailed analysis
• Directing fellow technical staff in soil/plant/chemical/biological analysis for survey and management purposes, including periodic review of methods
• Participate in research studies on better management aspects of different soils/plant/chemical/biological depending on their characteristics, for improved crop yields
• Regular servicing and maintenance of laboratory equipment, including trouble shooting
Generic Tasks:
• Participating in the formulation of strategic management plans for the research institute including development of annual work plans and budgets
• implementing integrated research projects based on the thematic multi-disciplinary and cross-functional teams
• Contribute to the development of broadly based statistical and observational models for monitoring, evaluating and controlling the research process
• Operating and maintaining laboratory equipment to conduct research, gather and analyse data
• Preparing analysis reports as well as other documentation for publication and dissemination
• Contributing to recommendations and conclusions from research findings which serve as the basis for planning and decision making
• Maintaining an inventory and operations of the soil testing and plant analytical laboratory, research equipment and laboratory facility as well as chemicals, apparatus and instruments
• May be required to perform miscellaneous job-related tasks as assigned

Key Competencies:
• Broad understanding and knowledge of chemistry/biology including use of modern analytical equipment, methods and procedures
• Comprehensive knowledge of plant/chemistry/biology concepts and theories
• Ability to utilize and maintain advanced scientific equipment and facilities
• Knowledge of research and survey methodology, including the principles and procedures of conducting research
• Ability to use independent judgment to adapt and modify research concepts and approaches to specific projects
• Knowledge of soil/plant/chemistry/biology science and current technological developments and trends including scientific research principles, practices, and protocols
• Ability to utilize basic computer and statistical techniques and applications to analyse laboratory data
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills and the ability to work effectively with a wide range of constituencies in a diverse community
• Ability to provide training, technical guidance and leadership to multi-disciplinary teams from diverse backgrounds

Minimum Qualifications:
• Hold an A-level certificate with good principal pass in chemistry/physics/biology
• Hold a Diploma in laboratory science technology majoring in chemistry/biology
• Have basic knowledge of handling and maintaining laboratory equipment
• Good computer skills
• A degree in laboratory science technology and experience in. working in a soil and plant analytical laboratory will be added advantages
• A degree in laboratory science technology and experience in working in a soil and plant analytical laboratory will be added advantages
Apply for this job

Application Procedures:
Interested persons with the above requirements should submit hand-written applications together with a detailed curriculum vitae giving a day-time telephone number and names and addresses of 3 (three) referees as well as copies of professional certificates and testimonials to the under-listed address not later than 5:00 pm 29th November 2010. Applications should quote the post applied for on both the application and the envelope.

The Director
National Forestry Resources Research Institute (NaFORRI)
P.O. Box 1752, Kampala