Senior Program Officer for Malaria Genetically-Based Vector Control Product Introduction, Launch, and Manufacture

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is the largest nonprofit dedicated to fighting poverty, disease, and inequity globally. Founded on the principle that all individuals, regardless of their identity or circumstances, deserve the opportunity to lead healthy and productive lives, the foundation emphasizes the importance of diversity among its employees to reflect the populations it serves. The organization provides a comprehensive benefits package that includes medical, dental, and vision coverage without premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, retirement contributions, regional holidays, and opportunities for employees to engage in various community initiatives. The foundation is committed to fostering a workplace environment that supports both personal and professional growth.

Job Overview:
As the Senior Program Officer for Malaria Genetically-Based Vector Control Product Introduction, Launch, and Manufacture, you will play a pivotal role in leading the development and operationalization of modified mosquito production and launch infrastructure. This position is integral to the foundation's broader strategy for malaria eradication, which aims to significantly reduce the burden of malaria, a disease that currently affects over 250 million people and results in more than 500,000 deaths annually. Your responsibilities will include managing a portfolio of high-impact investments that focus on the development of gene drive-ready mosquito mass-rearing facilities, advancing regulatory and biosafety pathways, monitoring and evaluating early deployments, and engaging stakeholders across various sectors. You will also be tasked with ensuring that the foundation's investments align with the overarching goal of eradicating malaria while saving lives through innovative interventions.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Your duties will encompass driving the development and execution of strategies for modified mosquito production and deployment infrastructure, ensuring alignment with the foundation's malaria eradication goals. You will contribute to refining the gene drive roadmap in collaboration with both internal and external experts to facilitate timely and safe field releases. Additionally, you will oversee the planning and design of insectary infrastructure and other systems for mosquito production and launch, focusing on scalability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability. You will facilitate cross-learning from other biologically-based control programs and lead internal matrix teams while representing the malaria PST in relevant foundation-wide working groups. Your role will also involve guiding investments related to national and international regulatory frameworks for genetically modified organisms, ensuring compliance with the Cartagena Protocol, and collaborating with biosafety and ethical review bodies to ensure responsible deployment of gene drive technologies. Furthermore, you will act as a thought leader and advocate for innovative vector control at scientific meetings and regulatory forums, effectively communicating complex technical and strategic content to diverse audiences.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree or higher in Entomology, Molecular Biology, Public Health, Vector Biology, Biological Control of Insects, or a related discipline. A minimum of 10 years of progressive responsibility in global health, vector control, or public health entomology programs is required, with at least 5 years of experience managing complex programmatic or scientific initiatives related to insect rearing, vector-borne disease control, or biotech product introduction. Deep expertise in genetic engineering technology is considered an advantage, along with a proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and collaborate effectively in matrixed environments. Candidates should also demonstrate the ability to navigate and resolve ambiguity with strategic clarity and creativity, possess excellent communication and relationship-building skills, and have strong analytical and synthesis skills with experience in evidence-based decision-making.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree or higher in relevant fields such as Entomology, Molecular Biology, Public Health, Vector Biology, or Biological Control of Insects. Equivalent experience in these areas may also be considered acceptable, provided it demonstrates the necessary knowledge and skills for the role.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of progressive responsibility in global health, vector control, or public health entomology programs. Candidates should have at least 5 years of experience managing complex programmatic or scientific initiatives related to insect rearing, vector-borne disease control, or the introduction of biotech products. Experience in managing multisectoral programs in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) is also essential, along with a deep understanding of genetic engineering technology.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international scope of the role. Additional language skills may be beneficial, particularly in languages spoken in malaria-endemic regions, to facilitate communication with local stakeholders and partners.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and may require travel up to 30% domestically and internationally. The salary range for this role is between $208,600 and $323,400 USD, with specific adjustments for high-wage markets such as Seattle and Washington D.C., where the salary range is between $227,400 and $352,400 USD. The organization aims to balance competitive pay with its mission-driven focus, and new hires typically fall within the range minimum and midpoint based on their skills and experience. As part of the hiring process, candidates will undergo a background check, and accommodations are available for applicants with disabilities. The foundation is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion in its hiring practices.