The Laboratory Technician (Chemistry/Biology) provides essential technical support for instructional laboratories in chemistry and biology courses, ensuring safe, efficient, and well-prepared lab environments that facilitate hands-on learning, scientific inquiry, and practical skill development for students in teacher education and related programs. The role supports faculty in delivering high-quality practical sessions while maintaining equipment, supplies and safety standards. Reports to the Head of Department, Science Education.

Basic Qualifications

1. Minimum of a relevant Diploma and practical experience as a Laboratory Technician of 03 years in a laboratory setting, preferably in an educational institution, including preparation of experiments, equipment maintenance, and safety management.
2. Practical experience with laboratory techniques in chemistry (e.g., solution preparation, titration, instrumentation) and/or biology (e.g., microscopy, culturing, dissection, fieldwork sampling), including handling of hazardous materials.
3. Must be below 45 years of age.

Personal Competencies

1. Enthusiasm for science education and the ability to support engaging, hands-on learning experiences that inspire future educators and students.
2. Strong technical laboratory skills, including safe preparation and handling of chemicals, biological specimens, and equipment, with strict adherence to safety protocols, hazard identification, waste disposal, and emergency procedures.
3. Alignment with Christian values, emphasizing ethical science practices, responsible stewardship of creation (including safe and sustainable use of resources), integrity in all lab activities, and compassionate support for students and faculty in pursuing knowledge for the common good.
4. Excellent organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills for collaborating with lecturers, assisting students during labs, maintaining clear records, and providing guidance on lab procedures.
5. Commitment to inclusive education, ensuring accessible and equitable lab experiences for diverse learners, including those with disabilities or varying backgrounds in STEM.
6. Adaptability to manage multiple lab preparations, troubleshoot equipment issues, and incorporate emerging techniques or topics (e.g., green chemistry, biotechnology applications, environmental monitoring relevant to education).

Key Tasks

1. Prepare and set up chemistry and biology laboratories for classes, demonstrations, and practical sessions, including assembling materials, reagents, specimens, glassware, and equipment according to the lecturer’s instructions and syllabi.
2. Demonstrate laboratory techniques, assist students during experiments, supervise safe practices, and provide technical guidance to ensure effective learning outcomes.
3. Maintain, clean, sterilize, calibrate, and perform minor repairs on laboratory equipment and instrumentation (e.g., microscopes, balances, pH meters, spectrophotometers, autoclaves); report major issues promptly.
4. Manage inventory of chemicals, biological supplies, consumables, and equipment; order, receive, store, and issue materials while tracking usage and maintaining accurate records.
5. Handle hazardous materials safely, including proper labeling, storage, disposal of chemical and biological waste according to university and regulatory guidelines, and promotion of sustainable practices.
6. Incorporate ethical discussions, creation care principles (e.g., minimizing waste, eco-friendly alternatives), and real-world applications relevant to African contexts, such as using local resources for experiments, addressing public health or environmental education topics, and supporting teacher training in science pedagogy.
7. Contribute to lab safety training, risk assessments, emergency preparedness (e.g., spill response, first aid), and compliance with university policies; participate in safety audits and drills.
8. Assist in curriculum-related activities, such as developing prep sheets, updating lab manuals, supporting assessments (e.g., practical exams), and collaborating on program enhancements for employability in education.
9. Engage in continuous professional development, stay updated on laboratory best practices, safety regulations, and advancements in chemistry/biology education; ensure all duties reflect university values of integrity, service, respect for life, and responsible care for God’s creation.