Life Science Laboratories Manager

About the role

The University of Lusaka seeks a qualified professional to lead and modernise its Life Science Laboratories supporting Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy, Biomedical Sciences, Public Health and Biotechnology programmes. The Manager will ensure compliance with HEA, HPCZ and ISO standards while providing strategic direction, teaching support and research facilitation.

Key responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership for anatomy, physiology, biochemistry, microbiology, molecular biology, histology and parasitology labs, overseeing daily operations and scheduling.
• Develop and implement laboratory policies, SOPs, budgets, annual work plans and quality management systems (LQMS, GLP).
• Support teaching practicals, prepare equipment and materials, and assist in developing laboratory manuals and innovative teaching technologies.
• Assist staff and students with research projects, maintain and calibrate equipment, and drive grant‑readiness and innovation.
• Ensure full compliance with HEA accreditation, HPCZ, ZAMRA and biosafety requirements, conduct risk assessments and chair the Laboratory Safety Committee.
• Manage equipment lifecycle, procurement, calibration, maintenance, inventory and asset registers.
• Supervise, mentor and appraise laboratory technologists, technicians and assistants, identifying training needs and fostering teamwork.
• Prepare and monitor the laboratory budget, ensuring value for money in procurement.

Required profile

• MSc in Biomedical Sciences, Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology or Clinical Laboratory Sciences (PhD preferred).
• BSc in Biomedical or Biological Sciences.
• Minimum five years’ experience managing university or hospital laboratories, with at least two years in a supervisory role.
• Registered with HPCZ and holding a valid practising certificate.
• Knowledge of ISO 15189:2022, ISO 17025, GLP and biosafety levels 1 & 2.
• Qualifications must be certified by the Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA).

Required skills

• Proficiency with Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS).
• Hands‑on experience with PCR, spectrophotometer, centrifuge, autoclave and biosafety cabinet.
• Implementation of quality management systems and laboratory safety protocols.