Microbiologist

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established in 1975, FHI 360 has over 45 years of experience in Bangladesh, working to transform the country’s health and development landscape. The organization employs experts across various fields including health, education, nutrition, environment, economic development, youth, research, technology, communication, and social marketing. FHI 360 operates in more than 70 countries and all US states and territories, delivering integrated programs across critical sectors such as essential health services, HIV, nutrition, tuberculosis, global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and economic participation. The organization collaborates with the Government of Bangladesh, civil society, academia, and the private sector to strengthen community capacities and institutional frameworks for sustainable impact.

Job Overview:
The Microbiologist position is part of an upcoming TB diagnostic network strengthening initiative in Bangladesh. This role is contingent upon the award of the project and will be based in Regional TB Reference Laboratories (RTRLs). The Microbiologist will work under the supervision of the TB Laboratory Systems Advisor and will be responsible for ensuring that project technical deliverables are implemented effectively and on time. The position will primarily focus on public health systems but may also involve private health and non-governmental diagnostic facilities. The Microbiologist will provide technical assistance and systems strengthening interventions at the sub-national level, contributing to the overall goal of improving tuberculosis detection and control in the country. Frequent in-country travel will be required to fulfill the responsibilities of this role.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Microbiologist will have a range of responsibilities including: providing technical oversight and hands-on support for TB diagnostic services, ensuring the implementation and maintenance of Quality Management Systems (QMS) in line with national standards, monitoring laboratory performance indicators, supporting the preparation and distribution of External Quality Assessment (EQA) panels, conducting regular supportive supervision and mentoring visits to laboratories, identifying nonconformities during audits, strengthening sample referral and transportation systems, ensuring adherence to biosafety and biosecurity practices, collaborating with technical staff on project workplans, supporting laboratory data reporting, maintaining proper documentation, coordinating with the National TB Reference Laboratory and project technical teams, supporting training and coaching of laboratory staff, ensuring timely communication of test results, participating in relevant technical meetings, contributing to technical reports, and conducting other assigned work as needed.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a minimum of a BSc in clinical diagnostics or an equivalent degree with a specialty in microbiology, particularly with a strong focus on tuberculosis. Additionally, at least four years of direct experience in TB diagnostic network strengthening and laboratory capacity building in Bangladesh is required. Candidates should demonstrate competency in current diagnostic methods for TB and have knowledge and experience in strengthening laboratories to achieve international quality standards. Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory, and experience working in Bangladesh is preferred. Candidates must also be willing and able to travel at least 50% within Bangladesh and perform other travel as needed.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a minimum of a Bachelor of Science degree in clinical diagnostics or an equivalent field, with a specialization in microbiology. This educational foundation is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to TB diagnostic services and laboratory capacity strengthening efforts.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of four years of relevant experience in TB diagnostic network strengthening and laboratory capacity building. This experience should include direct involvement in laboratory operations, quality management systems, and the implementation of diagnostic methods for tuberculosis. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in laboratory settings and contributing to public health initiatives.

Languages:
Fluency in written and spoken English is mandatory for this position. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of Bengali or other local languages may be considered an asset, as it can facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the effectiveness of the role.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may involve a significant amount of travel within Bangladesh. The expected hiring salary range for this role is between BDT 1,000,000 and BDT 1,500,000 for annual gross salary. The final offer will take into account various factors such as relevant experience, education, internal equity, market pay, and budget considerations. FHI 360 is committed to equal employment opportunities and does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national or ethnic origin, age, disability, or veteran status. The organization also emphasizes safeguarding and preventing abuse, exploitation, and harassment in its work environments.