Background information about the job or company (e.g., role context, company overview)

The Lilongwe University of Agriculture and Natural Resources (LUANAR) invites applications from suitably qualified candidates for the position of Laboratory Technician – Human Ecology.

The successful candidate will provide technical support for teaching, research, and practical activities within Human Ecology and related disciplines. The role involves supporting laboratory and practical sessions, assisting with research activities, maintaining equipment and resources, managing records, and ensuring compliance with quality and safety standards.

The ideal candidate should have strong technical abilities, good organizational skills, and the ability to work effectively with students, academic staff, and researchers.

Responsibilities or duties

Academic and Research Support

• Assist academic staff in preparing and delivering practical sessions related to Human Ecology and Consumer Sciences.
• Support students during laboratory exercises, demonstrations, and practical learning activities.
• Assist in the design and implementation of research projects.
• Support data collection, analysis, and preparation of research reports.
• Provide guidance on the proper use of tools, equipment, and laboratory resources.
• Assist with workshops, practical demonstrations, and research activities.
• Maintain stocks of laboratory materials, equipment, and supplies.
• Prepare procurement requests and maintain accurate records of resource usage.

Equipment Operation and Maintenance

• Operate specialized equipment used in Human Ecology and related practical activities.
• Conduct routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting of laboratory equipment.
• Ensure equipment is properly maintained and meets operational and safety standards.
• Keep accurate records of equipment use, maintenance, and repairs.

Quality Control and Safety Compliance

• Assist in collecting and analyzing samples for research and quality assurance purposes.
• Maintain accurate records of laboratory activities, results, and research data.
• Ensure compliance with institutional quality standards and procedures.
• Conduct safety checks and promote safe working practices.
• Support proper handling, storage, and disposal of laboratory materials.

Administrative Responsibilities

• Support laboratory management and preparation for practical sessions.
• Maintain inventories and laboratory documentation.
• Collaborate with academic staff, students, and relevant stakeholders.
• Perform any other duties assigned by the Head of Department.

Qualifications or requirements (e.g., education, skills)

Applicants should possess:

• A Bachelor's degree in Human Ecology, Consumer Sciences, or a closely related field from a recognized university with at least a Credit.
• A Master's degree in the relevant field will be an added advantage.

Experience needed

Applicants should demonstrate:

• A minimum of three (3) years' relevant experience in a technical support role within a recognized university, research institution, or related environment.
• Ability to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot relevant laboratory equipment.
• Experience in conducting practical experiments, managing research data, and using statistical tools.
• Experience maintaining laboratory records and quality standards.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and best practices.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills when working with students and academic staff.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• High levels of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to quality service delivery.

Terms and Conditions

Successful candidates will be appointed on an initial two-year contract, with eligibility for permanent appointment based on satisfactory performance.

Remuneration will be in accordance with the LUANAR Staff Regulations and Conditions of Service (2023) applicable to fixed-term contract staff.

LUANAR is an equal opportunity employer. Female candidates are strongly encouraged to apply.

• Assist academic staff in preparing and delivering practical sessions related to Human Ecology and Consumer Sciences.
• Support students during laboratory exercises, demonstrations, and practical learning activities.
• Assist in the design and implementation of research projects.
• Support data collection, analysis, and preparation of research reports.
• Provide guidance on the proper use of tools, equipment, and laboratory resources.
• Assist with workshops, practical demonstrations, and research activities.
• Maintain stocks of laboratory materials, equipment, and supplies.
• Prepare procurement requests and maintain accurate records of resource usage.
• Operate specialized equipment used in Human Ecology and related practical activities.
• Conduct routine maintenance and basic troubleshooting of laboratory equipment.
• Ensure equipment is properly maintained and meets operational and safety standards.
• Keep accurate records of equipment use, maintenance, and repairs.
• Assist in collecting and analyzing samples for research and quality assurance purposes.
• Maintain accurate records of laboratory activities, results, and research data.
• Ensure compliance with institutional quality standards and procedures.
• Conduct safety checks and promote safe working practices.
• Support proper handling, storage, and disposal of laboratory materials.
• Support laboratory management and preparation for practical sessions.
• Maintain inventories and laboratory documentation.
• Collaborate with academic staff, students, and relevant stakeholders.
• Perform any other duties assigned by the Head of Department.

• Ability to operate, maintain, and troubleshoot relevant laboratory equipment.
• Experience in conducting practical experiments, managing research data, and using statistical tools.
• Experience maintaining laboratory records and quality standards.
• Knowledge of laboratory safety procedures and best practices.
• Strong communication and interpersonal skills when working with students and academic staff.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
• High levels of integrity, professionalism, and commitment to quality service delivery.

• A Bachelor's degree in Human Ecology, Consumer Sciences, or a closely related field from a recognized university with at least a Credit.
• A Master's degree in the relevant field will be an added advantage.