The Medical Research Council (MRC UK), an internationally recognized center of excellence, is seeking an experienced Administrative Assistant (Senior) to join its team in Entebbe, Uganda. The successful candidate will be responsible for coordinating study activities, maintaining laboratory records, and providing administrative support to the team. The MRC UK has a dominant research focus on HIV and emerging infections, vaccines and immunity, and chronic diseases and cancer.
The Administrative Assistant (Senior) will play a key role in coordinating laboratory activities, including tracking results, maintaining filing systems, and preparing reports and presentations. The position holder will also be responsible for overseeing inventory control, ensuring timely procurement of reagents and supplies, and providing data entry and results tracking support. Effective communication and organizational skills are essential for this role.
The successful candidate will have a bachelor's degree in a related administrative field and at least three years of experience in coordinating research-based studies. Previous experience working in a laboratory setting with different scientists and managing administrative processes within defined deadlines is highly desirable. The ideal candidate will be proficient in information system tools, such as MSD and REDCap, and possess sound knowledge of administration and operational requirements.
The Administrative Assistant (Senior) will provide day-to-day coordination and supervisory support to laboratory staff, senior laboratory technologists, and other scientists within the project. This will involve monitoring daily and weekly tasks, establishing priorities, and ensuring the completion of assigned duties. The position holder will also be responsible for making sure potential conflicts are resolved promptly and decisively, involving HR support where needed.
In addition to administrative experience, the successful candidate will possess excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work with staff at all levels. The ideal candidate will be able to take the initiative, solve problems within the team, and maintain high levels of integrity, confidentiality, and accountability. A good working knowledge of Microsoft Office and laboratory information management systems is also essential.
The MRC Uganda Unit is based at the UVRI Entebbe campus, with established outposts in Kalungu, Masaka, Wakiso, and Kampala Districts. The Unit has a partnership with the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM), which was established in 2018. This partnership aims to boost research capacity into current and emerging health issues in Africa and worldwide.
Interested applicants can apply online for the Administrative Assistant (Senior) position, which is set to close on October 1, 2026. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The MRC Uganda Unit offers a dynamic work environment with opportunities for professional growth and development.
Key points
- The ideal candidate will have at least three years of experience in coordinating research-based studies and previous experience working in a laboratory setting.
- The Administrative Assistant (Senior) will be responsible for coordinating study activities, maintaining laboratory records, and providing administrative support to the team.
- The position holder will provide day-to-day coordination and supervisory support to laboratory staff, senior laboratory technologists, and other scientists within the project.
