Laboratory Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions for human development. Established in 1980, FHI 360 operates in more than 60 countries and has a diverse workforce of over 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, and economic development, and is committed to safeguarding the welfare of everyone who engages with its programs.

Job Overview:
The Laboratory Specialist will play a pivotal role in enhancing Mozambique’s national and sub-national laboratory systems as part of the EpiC Global Health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security (GHS) project. This position requires close collaboration with the Ministry of Health (MISAU), the National Institute of Health (INS), and various partners to improve diagnostic capacities for priority pathogens. The Specialist will be responsible for enhancing specimen transport and referral systems, promoting biosafety and biosecurity, and ensuring quality management practices are adhered to. Additionally, the role involves coordinating laboratory activities across human and animal health sectors to support the One Health approach, which is crucial for Mozambique's compliance with the International Health Regulations (2005) and the Global Health Security Agenda (GHSA) priorities. The position is particularly suited for Mozambican nationals, although qualified regional candidates with relevant experience may also be considered.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Laboratory Specialist will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities including: providing daily leadership and technical guidance for laboratory-related activities in collaboration with MISAU, INS, and other partners; supporting the review and updating of the Priority Zoonotic Diseases (PZD) list and related diagnostic strategies; working closely with FHI 360 HQ lab advisors to co-develop tools; strengthening specimen transport and referral systems; establishing or enhancing diagnostic services such as PCR-based testing; facilitating benchmarking or learning exchanges with regional reference laboratories; contributing to the development and digitalization of the Outbreak Investigation Manual; coordinating procurement and distribution of laboratory reagents and materials; mentoring laboratory staff in safe specimen handling and quality assurance; documenting lessons learned; collaborating with EpiC team members to integrate laboratory work with surveillance and outbreak-response activities; and representing EpiC in relevant national technical working groups and forums.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess proven technical experience in at least two of the following areas: diagnostic microbiology or molecular biology, biosafety and biosecurity, laboratory quality management systems, specimen referral/logistics, or outbreak investigation support. Experience in implementing laboratory quality systems and providing technical assistance to the Ministry of Health is essential. A practical understanding of international laboratory standards, such as ISO 15189 and the WHO Biosafety Manual, is required, along with familiarity with the Global Health Security Agenda. Candidates should also have experience working with government laboratory networks and supporting continuous quality improvement, as well as comfort with laboratory data systems and digital health tools. Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills are necessary, as is the ability to manage multiple priorities under limited supervision.

Educational Background:
A Master’s degree (preferred) or equivalent in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Laboratory Sciences, Public Health, or a related field is required. Specialized training or certification in biosafety/biosecurity, laboratory quality management, or infectious-substance shipping is considered an asset.

Experience:
A minimum of 6 years of relevant experience is required, with at least 3 years within Mozambique’s laboratory network or equivalent regional experience. Candidates should demonstrate success in implementing or supporting laboratory systems strengthening initiatives, including diagnostic capacity building and biosafety improvements. Experience collaborating with the Ministry of Health or other national health institutions and providing technical assistance within donor-funded projects is essential. Hands-on experience with PCR or molecular testing and familiarity with emerging diagnostic technologies is also necessary.

Languages:
Fluency in Portuguese is mandatory, along with strong proficiency in English. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not required.

Additional Notes:
The position reports to the EpiC GHS Team Leader and may involve supervising short-term consultants or sub-partner laboratory activities. The role requires domestic travel within Mozambique, estimated at 10-25%, with limited regional travel possible. The application deadline is set for 16 December 202

• FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to safeguarding against abuse and harassment in its work environments. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and promotes a healthy work/life balance.