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Specimen Handling and Analysis

Develop and optimize preanalytical procedures for blood and saliva specimens, including:

• Use of cell-stabilizing tubes to minimize ex vivo cell lysis.
• Techniques for reducing contamination by viral DNA from latently infected cells or virions.
• Enrichment for CpG methylated DNA to improve diagnostic specificity.
• Evaluate the effects of specimen transport conditions (temperature, time, additives) on cell-free DNA (CDNA) recovery and EBV DNA measurements.
• Perform plasma separation and analysis, including the exclusion of PBMC-derived viral DNA.
• Conduct saliva specimen analysis to minimize contamination from oral epithelial cells and lymphocytes.
• Consenting patients, sample collection of blood, saliva and another specimen as required.
• Occasionally, you will be required to go to the field to follow up with study participants when needed.
• Any other duties assigned by the Principal Investigator or immediate supervisor.

Laboratory Operations

• Maintain a well-organized and compliant laboratory environment, ensuring adherence to Good Clinical and Laboratory Practices (GCLP) and biosafety standards.
• Operate, calibrate, and maintain laboratory equipment for processing cDNA and EBV DNA analysis.
• Collaborate with international and local research teams to standardize methodologies and protocols.
• Flexibility in running samples for the hospital whenever there is need.

Data Management and Reporting

• Record, manage, enter and analyse laboratory data using REDCap.
• Prepare comprehensive laboratory reports and contribute to manuscript preparation for publications.
• Present findings to the research team and participate in project planning meetings.
• Capacity Building and Training
• Train and mentor junior laboratory staff and research assistants in sample handling, laboratory techniques, and data documentation.
• Assist in the development of training materials and workshops aimed at improving laboratory practices.