JOB ADVERTISEMENT
Who we are:
The Dian Fossey Gorilla Fund is proud to manage one of the most comprehensive and enduring datasets on any animal species. Recently, the Fossey Fund has expanded its research to include additional gorilla groups in Volcanoes National Park, aligning with our strategic goal of achieving 100% research coverage within the next five (5) years. These data are essential for advancing scientific knowledge of gorillas and informing conservation strategies for this endangered species.
To support this effort, we are seeking highly collaborative individuals with experience in conservation to join our team as a Laboratory Research Assistant. This position will be based at the Ellen DeGeneres Campus located in Kinigi Sector – Musanze District/ Northern Province.
Position Title: Laboratory Research Assistant _ Biological sample analysis and wildlife physiology (1)
Job Purpose:
General:
The Laboratory Research Assistant assists in the conduct of research applications in Fossey Fund’s Primate Science and/or Biodiversity Science Laboratories. This includes contributing to activities such as sample storage and laboratory processing, data entry, data collection and analysis protocols, and compliance with all applicable laboratory safety programs. This position also participates in the training of students, interns and other researchers in these applications.
Specialized:
This position will support the Fossey Fund’s physiological monitoring and research programs, and other analyses of biological samples, and will be based primarily in the sample intake and hormone laboratories.
Main Duties/Responsibilities:
General:
Participate in the recording, processing, storage and laboratory analysis of samples and/or data from the field;
Assist in data entry and cleaning of databases;
Work collaboratively with the Senior Lab Coordinator and science managers to maintain a safe working environment, including maintaining compliance with biosafety, chemical safety, and ethical research standards as appropriate and contributing to periodic safety reviews.
Take responsibility for the proper use and care of all lab materials and equipment, and ensure cleanliness and hygiene are always maintained in the laboratory.
Report any damage, malfunction, or safety hazard immediately to the supervisor.
Provide training to students, interns and researchers on various laboratory protocols and laboratory equipment use.
Participate in weekly and monthly program meetings.
Assist in the preparation of the weekly, monthly, and annual reports to be included in program reports.
Participate in the internal training curriculum.
Assist in communications/PR programs (e.g., researcher’s talk and laboratory visits by tourists, students, and school children) as needed.
Perform other tasks as requested by the employer
Specialized:
Participate in recording, processing, storage, and analysis of biological samples from the field for physiology monitoring/research, genetic studies, parasite research, and other ongoing research projects following established protocols.
Education and Professional Qualifications:
Required:
Bachelor’s degree in biology, Biotechnology, Chemistry, or a related field.
Preferred:
Training in lab safety and handling lab equipment.
Preferred / Specialized:
Trained in working with biological samples.
Work Experience:
Required:
Minimum of 2 years experience conducting research on wildlife biology, laboratory sciences, or related fields.
Preferred / Specialized:
Prior experience with data entry and management.
Prior experience working with large databases
Prior experience in training/teaching.
Preferred / Specialized:
Prior experience in wildlife physiology protocols
Experience working in a BSL-II laboratory
Skills, Knowledge, and Abilities:
Technical Skills
Demonstrated ability to follow established lab safety requirements and protocols regarding the handling of biological samples and use of laboratory equipment.
Demonstrated ability to use Microsoft Excel and Word.
Knowledge
Understanding of standard laboratory biological and chemical safety protocols.
Understanding the importance of science and physiology in wildlife conservation.
Soft Skills
Excellent attention to detail, organizational skills, including time management, and ability to record data accurately.
Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, with the ability to collaborate within a multi-cultural lab team.
High degrees of patience, resilience, and discipline.
Other Abilities
Fluent in English; French or Kinyarwanda is a strong asset.
Deep commitment to Fossey Fund’s core values: integrity, courage, equity, passion, and collaboration.
Willingness to live and work in remote field stations for extended periods.
Application Process:
All candidates interested in this opportunity are invited to submit the following documents:
A cover letter setting out briefly the candidate’s motivation and suitability for the position, not more than 1 page,
An Updated CV.
The name, position, and contact number for three references, preferably one of them being your current Employer/Direct Supervisor.
<script async src="https://pagead2.googlesyndication.com/pagead/js/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-8424431947926653"
crossorigin="anonymous">
A copy of education and training certificates/diplomas/degrees
A copy of relevant work certificates.
A Copy of your national ID
The interested candidates are required to submit their application via the Apply button by October 12, 2025, at 00:00 a.m.
[email protected]
Only short-listed candidates shall be contacted.
Felix NDAGIJIMANA
Country Director - Rwanda Programs
Attachment
https://www.jobinrwanda.com/sites/default/files/job_description_files/job-advert-laboratory-research-assistant-signed260b4907511c9f7c7d9a6290f73db220.pdf
