Phlebotomist
Department: Brain and Mind Institute
Entity: Aga Khan University
Location: Nairobi, Kenya
Duration: One year (renewable)
Introduction
Chartered in 1983, Aga Khan University (AKU) is a private, autonomous, and self-governing international university, with 13 teaching sites in 6 countries over three continents. An integral part of the Aga Khan Development Network, AKU provides higher education in multiple health science and social science disciplines, carries out research pertinent primarily to low- and middle-income countries and operates 7 hospitals (soon 8) and over 325 outreach clinics, all at international standards. It has almost 2,500 students and 14,000 staff. The University is both a model of academic excellence and an agent of social change. As a leading international institution dedicated to excellence and change, AKU operates on the core principles of quality, relevance, impact, and access.
The Brain and Mind Institute (BMI) is a trans-AKU entity that seeks to build capacity in the domains of mental health and neuroscience. In collaboration with partners, the Institute is advancing research leadership capacity and support service delivery across East Africa and South Asia, and other regions served by the AKU. The Institute supports a hub for scholarship exchange and action on mental health issues, as well as educational, clinical, and community-based programs. BMI’s research focuses on the context of today’s youth in Africa and South Asia, while our programmatic offerings address mental health related and brain health issues, including stigma and resiliency. A significant area of interest is the implementation of science-based programing in hospital and community settings that translate new discoveries into prevention and treatment programs.
Job Summary
With oversight from BMI’s Principal Investigators (PIs) and Project Manager(s), the Phlebotomist will be responsible for managing accurate collection of bio-samples, including drawing blood samples from research study participants, ensuring their safety and comfort while adhering to study protocols. They will be expected to accurately label and process samples, maintain meticulous records, and follow ethical and regulatory guidelines. Their role includes explaining procedures to participants, obtaining informed consent, and collaborating with study managers and other research staff. The phlebotomist will be expected to ensure compliance with safety standards, promptly reports any issues, and contributes to the integrity and success of the research study.
This position requires meticulous attention to detail, excellent communication skills, and a strong commitment to participant safety and comfort thus contributing to BMI’s overall objective for advancing scientific knowledge and improving healthcare outcomes through rigorous and high-quality research practices.
Responsibilities
- Participant Interaction: Explain procedures to research study participants to ensure they are informed and comfortable and confirm informed consent prior to sample collection as well as adherence to ethical standards on working with human subjects
- Sample Collection: Collect biometrics from study participants, perform venipuncture and other techniques to collect bio-samples from study participant following standardized protocols, as well as timely and accurate collection of samples.
- Sample Handling and Processing: Label samples accurately and efficiently, ensure samples are stored and transported correctly to maintain integrity, support with sample processing and ensure proper labelling, handling and documentation of samples
- Data Entry and Documentation: Maintain correct and complete detailed records in compliance with study protocols and regulatory requirements.
- Compliance and Safety: Adhere to all health and safety regulations/protocols as well as maintain a clean and organized work environment.
- Team Collaboration: Work closely with researchers, lab technicians, and other staff to ensure the smooth operation of research studies, as well as participate in team meetings to provide input on improving collection processes.
Requirements
- Diploma or degree in Phlebotomy or related field
- Certified Phlebotomist with relevant training and certifications skilled in bio-sample collection and patient interaction.
- Valid practice license.
- A minimum of two years’ experience in a healthcare setting with experience in research preferred.
- Strong knowledge of laboratory techniques and procedures, including sample collection, labelling, and storage, as well as laboratory safety practices.
- Familiarity with regulatory requirements for handling and processing biological samples, including Good Laboratory Practices (GLP) and Health Insurance Portability and Accountability Act (HIPAA) regulations.
- Compassionate and patient focused.
