Healthcare and MedicalFull-TimeEntry-level(0-1 yr)
Job Description
The PhD Fellow in Laboratory Medicine, Biomarkers & Neurocardiovascular Ageing will work within the Longitudinal Study of Health and Ageing in Kenya (LOSHAK) priorities. The successful candidate will design biomarker-focused PhD protocols, define analyte panels and analytical strategies, and lead laboratory and biospecimen workflows, while securing necessary ethics and regulatory approvals.
Key Responsibilities
Doctoral Research Design
Develop a biomarker-focused PhD protocol aligned with LOSHAK priorities; define analyte panels and analytical strategy; secure ethics and regulatory approvals.
Laboratory & Biospecimen Workflows
Design and implement biospecimen handling, storage, and assay pipelines for AD/ADRDs and CVD biomarkers; contribute to SOPs development and Quality Assurance (QA).
Data Integration & Analysis
Link biomarker data with cognitive, clinical, and longitudinal survey data; apply appropriate statistical and epidemiological methods.
Scholarly Outputs
Produce thesis chapters; prepare manuscripts; disseminate findings to scientific and clinical audiences.
Platform & Team Engagement
Contribute to LOSHAK laboratory and biobank development; engage with multidisciplinary teams (epidemiology, neurology, cardiology, data science).
Professional Development
Build expertise in biomarker science, neurocardiovascular ageing, and longitudinal analysis; complete relevant training.
Required Qualifications & Experience
Registered in a PhD Programme in Laboratory Medicine, Pathology, Biomedical Sciences, Epidemiology, or related field.
Completed or nearing completion of PhD coursework and ready for the research phase.
Strong grounding in laboratory methods and quantitative analysis (STATA, R, Python).
Demonstrated interest in ageing, dementia, cardiovascular disease, or biomarker science.
Ability to work independently and manage a multi-year research project.
Excellent academic writing and communication skills.
Experience with biomarker assays (e.g., immunoassays, proteomics, metabolomics).
Familiarity with biobanking or biospecimen management.
Exposure to population-based or clinical research.
Interest in translational and policy-relevant ageing research in LMICs.
Personal Characteristics & Behaviours
Demonstrates high scientific integrity and attention to detail.
Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
Strong communication skills and collaboration.
Culturally sensitive and adaptable in diverse environments.
Commitment to learning and Professional Development.
