Laboratory Manager

About the role

Mpala Research Centre is seeking an experienced Laboratory Manager to lead the effective, quality-driven and commercially sustainable operation of its laboratory facilities. The manager ensures high standards of laboratory operations, quality assurance, researcher support and staff management, while developing the laboratory into a service-oriented, revenue-generating facility for researchers, academic institutions, government agencies, NGOs and private-sector clients.

Key responsibilities

• Lead day-to-day laboratory operations and supervise, mentor and develop laboratory staff, coordinating work planning, training and performance.
• Coordinate access and support for researchers, students, visiting scientists and external users, and ensure safety, protocols and procedures are followed.
• Grow laboratory services and identify fee-for-service testing, contract research, technical training, consultancy and other revenue-generating opportunities.
• Build strategic partnerships and support grant and funding proposals for infrastructure, equipment and capacity development.
• Maintain the Quality Management System in line with ISO 17025 or other relevant standards, including SOPs, quality controls, audits, proficiency testing and corrective actions.
• Ensure compliance with research, regulatory and institutional requirements, and represent the laboratory in institutional meetings and stakeholder engagements.
• Work with Research Compliance and Administration on approvals and material transfer agreements, and prepare operational, quality, financial and performance reports for senior leadership.

Required profile

• Bachelor's degree in Biology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry, Microbiology, Life Sciences or a related field; a Master's degree is an added advantage.
• Proven experience managing a research, analytical, diagnostic or similar laboratory.
• Experience supervising technical teams and managing laboratory operations, equipment and resources.
• Experience in business development, resource mobilization, grant development or developing laboratory services is an advantage.
• Strong communication, stakeholder management and relationship-building skills, with a practical, commercially aware approach.

To apply, submit a cover letter and an updated CV with three referees by email to the employer, using the subject line "Application: Laboratory Manager". Applications close on 29 October 2026; only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.