Laboratory and Diagnostics Advisor

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 with a mission to address interrelated development challenges, FHI 360 employs a diverse team of experts across various fields including health, education, nutrition, and technology. The organization operates in more than 70 countries and all U.S. states and territories, showcasing its extensive reach and commitment to global health and development.

Job Overview:
The Laboratory and Diagnostics Advisor will play a crucial role in providing technical expertise, leadership, and guidance for the anticipated USG-funded Global Health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">Security project in Nigeria. This position involves leading the development, implementation, and monitoring of strategic initiatives aimed at strengthening laboratory systems and diagnostic capacities. The advisor will work closely with country-level teams and key partners to ensure effective technical assistance, aiming to improve access to quality diagnostic testing. Responsibilities include developing guidelines and policies for laboratory diagnostic network strengthening, contributing to project statements of work, and ensuring high-quality laboratory services are delivered. The role requires a proactive approach to identifying challenges and implementing solutions to enhance laboratory capacity in Nigeria.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Laboratory and Diagnostics Advisor include providing overall technical leadership for laboratory and diagnostic services, coordinating with other technical areas to ensure synergy, and maintaining project protocols and data sets. The advisor will collaborate with national and local counterparts to fulfill project objectives, lead the development of technical briefs and reports, and provide subject matter expertise for laboratory strengthening activities. Additionally, the advisor will promote the integration of new diagnostic technologies, monitor project implementation, and ensure alignment with project goals. Responsibilities also include preparing reports summarizing project results, establishing budget tracking systems, and developing quality assurance processes to meet donor requirements.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master’s degree in microbiology or a related biological science within a medical laboratory discipline. A minimum of 8 years of relevant experience in infectious disease diagnostics or laboratory systems strengthening is required. Familiarity with USG-funded projects and regulations is preferred. Extensive knowledge of laboratory practices, quality assurance systems, and laboratory information management systems is essential. The candidate should demonstrate the ability to design and manage laboratory strengthening initiatives and have experience in capacity-building activities such as training and mentoring laboratory personnel.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master’s degree in microbiology or its equivalent in biological sciences, specifically within a medical laboratory discipline. This advanced degree is crucial for understanding the complexities of laboratory systems and diagnostics in the context of public health.

Experience:
The position requires a significant level of experience, typically 8+ years, in relevant fields such as infectious disease diagnostics and laboratory systems strengthening. Candidates should have prior experience working on USG-funded projects and a strong understanding of the associated regulations and reporting requirements. Proven experience in managing laboratory practices and diagnostic techniques is also necessary.

Languages:
Proficiency in the English language is mandatory for this position. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as required.

Additional Notes:
This position may involve up to 40% local and regional travel. FHI 360 is committed to safeguarding and providing a safe environment for all employees and beneficiaries. The organization adheres to strict safeguarding policies to prevent any form of abuse or exploitation. The role may involve supervising junior staff and mentoring lower-level personnel. FHI 360 is an equal opportunity employer and values diversity in its workforce, ensuring that all qualified applicants are considered for employment without discrimination.