Pharmacist - The Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU)

VACANCIES ANNOUNCEMENT

The Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU) based at the National Institute for Medical Research campus in Mwanza, Tanzania is a collaborative research unit of the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine and the National Institute for Medical Research. The mission of the Mwanza

Intervention Trials Unit is to contribute to improving health through the development and evaluation of interventions against HIV and other health problems by conducting research, including clinical trials, to the highest international standards; to enhance the capacity to carry out such research in Tanzania and the East African region; and to contribute to the translation of research findings into health policy.

MITU is currently collaborating with other international research partners to implement a 4 year clinical trial to test dose reductions, safety and immunogenicity of human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccines to prevent cervical cancer. The study will be conducted with healthy female volunteers. The Unit is now inviting applications from motivated and suitably qualified candidates to fill the position of clinical trials pharmacist.

Specific responsibilities

·         To ensure proper preparation, handling, cold chain maintenance and storage of vaccines according to standard operating procedures

·         To perform dispensing and accurate, timely accountability of study vaccines and provide reports to the study sponsor

·         To ensure that all pharmacy-related activities are implemented according to the study protocol and good clinical practice

·         To ensure compliance with all aspects of pharmco-vigilance for the clinical trial, including liaison with the regulatory authorities where required

• To prepare trial standard operating procedures and tally sheets for vaccine handling and vaccine accountability in conjunction with the trial sponsor and investigators
• To ensure correct pharmacy waste disposal procedures are in place and to organise and supervise disposal of unused or expired vaccines and drugs when required.

·         To perform any other trial-related activities as may be requested by the investigators

Essential qualifications

• A degree in pharmacy from a recognized University
• At least two years practical working experience as a pharmacist
• Excellent written and oral communication skills in English

• Experience in pharmacy activities for clinical research studies
• Experience in vaccine handling and maintenance of cold chains
• Computer literacy including demonstrable proficiency with Word, Excel and Powerpoint

Desirable qualifications

• Substantial experience in clinical trials
• Previous GCP training
• Experience in applying pharmaceutical regulatory and safety requirements

Interested applicants should send an application letter explaining in English why they are interested in applying for this post which also indicates the earliest date they would be available to start in the role, a detailed curriculum vitae and the names of two referees by email to recruitment@mitu.or.tz by 5pm on 20 December 2016. Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for interview.