icddr,b is a Bangladesh-based international health research institute that strives to solve key public health problems through high-quality scientific research and innovation. icddr,b as a values-based organization encourages women and people with disabilities.

The Maternal and Child Health Division of icddr,b has been working to design and develop Thermal Jacket to support Kangaroo Mother Care. The primary objective of Thermal Jacket is to help preterm or low-birth-weight neonates to attain and maintain euthermia by providing an insulating environment created with locally available materials.

Position Description:

The Senior Research Assistant reporting to the project PI (Principal Investigator) will be responsible for conducting laboratory investigation and overall management of Thermal Jacket laboratory. The position will provide an opportunity for aspiring researchers to get to work in the research-based environment at icddr,b. Excellent performing candidates will have the opportunity for future career at icddr,b. The specific areas of responsibilities include

• Develop and manufacture thermo-chemical (heat-pack) devices;
• Resolve the issue with the heat-pack’s activation (triggering) mechanism by conducting surface morphology test such as scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM) test, energy dispersive X-ray analysis (EDX) test, and carrying out relevant chemical testing to see the appearance of different layers on the disc surface;
• Collaborate with the Department of Materials and Metallurgical Engineering, BUET, and any other relevant institutions to conduct analytical, qualitative, and quantitative tests, analyse test results and produce test reports regarding the trigger (a stainless-steel disc) followed by expert review.
• Operate a time-temperature data logger (Vernier LabQuest 3) device for data collection;
• Conduct relevant tests, investigations, and collect data in the laboratory;
• Analyse the data, create graphs, and ensure proper documentation of each test.
• Carry out monitoring and quality checks on laboratory data collection;
• Write the initial report based on own analysis, experience, and understanding of the work;
• Prepare the final report for submission to the supervisor after discussing it with all team members;
• Read the latest literature regarding tests and procedures.
• Write scientific papers regarding lab experiments for international peer-reviewed journals;
• Train other staff on quality processes;
• Need-based availability to support study work and good with tight deadlines.

Required qualification and experience:

• Master’s degree in Physics or Chemistry or Material Science or Materials and Metallurgical Engineering from a reputed institute with excellent academic records.
• 3 years of working experience in the relevant field with strong interpersonal and excellent communication and writing skills in English. However, length of experience may be relaxed to 1 year for the candidates who have demonstrated exceptional research skills and/or publications in international peer-reviewed journals with significant contributions.
• Experience of working in laboratory settings.

Location: Dhaka.

Number of post : 2

Contract Type and duration:

• Short Term Contractual Service Agreement basis; duration will be 4 months with a possibility of extension subject to availability of funds and performance.

Salary & benefits:

• Tk. 43,423/-(consolidated) per month inclusive of house rent and conveyance allowances.
• Festival bonus, income tax paid by icddr,b and subsidized canteen. Transport and Daycare facilities are subject to space availability.

Notes of attention:

• Only short-listed candidates shall be invited for written test /interview;
• The Organization reserves the right to make an appointment at a grade lower than that advertised;
• icddr,b does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process.

Interested candidates who fulfil the requirements should submit online applications using icddr,b website: career.icddrb.org by January 10, 2024.