The Laboratory and Diagnostics Advisor will provide technical leadership and guidance for the anticipated USAID-funded Global Health Security project’s laboratory and diagnostic components. S/he will be responsible for leading and managing the development and implementation of strategies to strengthen laboratory systems and diagnostic capacities. The Advisor will work closely with project management, country-level teams, and key stakeholders to ensure high‑quality and reliable laboratory services in the country. S/he will lead efforts to ensure the laboratory’s compliance with international standards and promote the integration of innovative diagnostic technologies. S/he will lead the development of guidelines and policies for laboratory diagnostic network strengthening activities and participate in technical thought leadership at the regional and country levels. **This position is contingent upon a successful award.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Provides strategic leadership and guidance to the laboratory and diagnostics component of the project in coordination with other technical areas.
• Works in close collaboration with national, regional, and local counterparts to provide the technical assistance required to fulfill national objectives and targets, primarily related to strengthening laboratory systems and diagnostic services.
• Provides technical expertise and support in the implementation of laboratory and diagnostic network strengthening activities (e.g., specimen referral, quality assurance, laboratory information management system, scale-up and optimization of new diagnostic tools) in areas such as antimicrobial resistance, zoonotic disease, biosafety and biosecurity, national laboratory system, and surveillance.
• Leads the development and implementation of capacity building and continuous improvement activities in collaboration with partners and stakeholders.
• Promotes adopting and integrating new diagnostic technologies and methodologies based on country needs and priorities.
• Works closely with country team project management, partners, and stakeholders to align laboratory and diagnostic activities with overall project goals.
• Fosters partnerships with national and international organizations, government agencies, and other relevant entities.
• Leads and contributes to research initiatives to improve laboratory practices and diagnostic outcomes.
• Works with other technical teams to develop work plans, presentations, and reports and represent the project in various forums as required.
• Performs other duties as assigned.

WORKING CONDITIONS AND TRAVEL REQUIREMENTS:

• Usual office working conditions.
• Ability to travel domestically at least 25%.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Master’s degree in microbiology or laboratory sciences, or its international equivalent, in biological sciences within a clinical or diagnostic discipline or specialty.
• At least 8+ years of experience working with infectious disease diagnostics and/or in laboratory systems strengthening.
• Extensive knowledge of laboratory practices, diagnostic techniques, quality assurance systems, and laboratory information management systems.
• Demonstrated ability to design, implement, and manage laboratory strengthening initiatives.
• Demonstrated experience in capacity-building activities such as training and mentoring laboratory personnel.
• Proven experience working with government agencies, particularly the Department of Health, is highly desirable to support strategy development, implementation plans, and decision-making.
• Experience working with USAID-funded projects and familiarity with USAID regulations and reporting requirements is preferred.
• Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills.

This job description summarizes the primary duties of the job. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.

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This job posting summarizes the main duties of the job. It neither prescribes nor restricts the exact tasks that may be assigned to carry out these duties. This document should not be construed in any way to represent a contract of employment. Management reserves the right to review and revise this document at any time.

FHI 360 is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer whereby we do not engage in practices that discriminate against any person employed or seeking employment based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national or ethnic origin, age, marital status, physical or mental disability, protected Veteran status, or any other characteristic protected under applicable law.

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FHI 360 fosters the strength and health of its workforce through a competitive benefits package, professional development and policies and programs that support a healthy work/life balance. Join our global workforce to make a positive difference for others — and yourself.

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