Research Officer at Ifakara Health Institute (IHI)

Ifakara Health Institute (IHI) is a leading research organization in Africa with a strong track record in developing, testing and validating innovations for health. Driven by a core strategic mandate for research, training and services, the Institute's work now spans a wide spectrum, covering biomedical and ecological sciences, intervention studies, health-systems research, service delivery and policy translation.

Position Summary

• Ifakara Health Institute (IHI) is looking for highly motivated and skilled graduates to join our team as Research Officer on a contract basis to work on genomics and transgenesis. Selected candidates will contribute significantly to advancing transgenesis research at IHI and in Tanzania at large toward malaria control and elimination. Transmission Zero is a global malaria research programme at IHI focused on developing innovative genetic tools to interrupt malaria transmission in Africa.

Responsibility:

• Ensure mandatory compliance with safety protocols and procedures within a Biosafety Level 3 (BSL- 3) laboratory facility.
• Perform comprehensive laboratory experiments involving the analysis of DNA, RNA, and proteins.
• Apply molecular biology techniques such as PCR, DNA/RNA sequencing, and gel electrophoresis in transgenesis research
• Contribute to microinjection procedures using DNA constructs, followed by screening and characterization of gene-edited samples through microscopy.
• Contribute to the adaptation, maintenance, and handling of malaria parasite cultures for experimental studies
• Perform direct membrane feeding assays (DMFA) and standard membrane feeding assays (SMFA).
• Support the optimization of experimental protocols and the maintenance of laboratory equipment.
• Maintain accurate, detailed, and up-to-date records of all laboratory experiments and findings.
• Participate in laboratory meetings and present research findings.
• Participate in laboratory meetings and present research progress and findings.

Skill :

• Computer skills (Microsoft office (MS Word, Excel, PowerPoint,).
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Skills on STATA, R Studio etc. will be an added advantage.

Qualification Required:

• Applicants must hold a science related degree preferably in Molecular Biology and/or Biotechnology.

Experience :

• At least one (1) year of experience in a similar field will be an added advantage.
• Hands-on experience and strong background in molecular biology and parasitology techniques is an added advantage.

Preferred Language Skill :

• Fluent both writting and verbal (English & Swahili)

Job Opening date : 29-May-2026

Job closing date : 06-Jun-2026