Senior Technical Specialist for Laboratory and Diagnostics

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a nonprofit organization dedicated to mobilizing research, resources, and relationships to ensure that people everywhere can access the opportunities they need to lead full and healthy lives. Established with a mission to improve lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions, FHI 360 has grown to employ over 2,000 experts who work in more than 50 countries around the globe. The organization focuses on various sectors including health, education, and economic development, and is committed to fostering sustainable change through evidence-based practices and partnerships.

Job Overview:
The Senior Technical Specialist for Laboratory and Diagnostics plays a crucial role in the Meeting Targets and Maintaining Epidemic Control (EpiC) project, which is a global health initiative funded by the U.S. Department of State. This project, running from 2019 to 2027, aims to achieve HIV epidemic control and strengthen global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security in the Philippines. The specialist will provide day-to-day technical leadership and operational support for laboratory and diagnostic components of the project. This includes translating strategic guidance into practical implementation at the country level, ensuring that project activities are technically sound, timely, and aligned with national priorities. The role involves leading the implementation of strategies to enhance biosafety and biosecurity, laboratory systems, and diagnostic capacities, while ensuring compliance with international and national standards. The specialist will also be responsible for managing laboratory diagnostic network strengthening activities and providing direct technical support to the Department of Health and its regional offices.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key responsibilities of the Senior Technical Specialist include:

• Technical Leadership and Coordination: Collaborate with national, regional, and local counterparts to provide necessary technical assistance to fulfill national objectives related to biosafety, biosecurity, and laboratory systems.
• Genomic Surveillance for Zoonotic Diseases: Provide guidance on developing genomic surveillance workflows for priority zoonotic diseases.
• Biosafety, Biosecurity, and IPC in Laboratories: Support the development of laboratory policies and guidelines on infection prevention and control and biosafety measures.
• National Laboratory System: Enhance diagnostic networks and update strategies for diagnostic and molecular technologies.
• Surveillance: Strengthen surveillance systems and ensure effective integration of diagnostics and reporting functions.
• Outbreak Response and Health Emergency Management: Work with supply chain specialists to ensure readiness for public health emergencies.
• Strategic Assistance, Capacity Building, and Quality Improvement: Lead continuous improvement activities and provide training and mentorship to laboratory staff.
• Project Planning and Grants Oversight: Collaborate with project management teams to develop work plans and ensure compliance with project objectives.
• Partnerships: Foster partnerships with government agencies and relevant organizations.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a Bachelor’s degree in microbiology or laboratory sciences, or an equivalent degree in biological sciences within a clinical or diagnostic discipline. Candidates should have at least 7 years of experience in infectious disease diagnostics and laboratory systems strengthening. Extensive knowledge of laboratory practices, diagnostic techniques, and quality assurance systems is essential. Demonstrated ability to design and manage laboratory strengthening initiatives, along with experience in capacity building activities such as training and mentoring laboratory personnel, is required. Proven experience working with government agencies, particularly the Department of Health, is highly desirable. Familiarity with US Government-funded projects and regulations is also beneficial. Strong organizational, analytical, and problem-solving skills are necessary for this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in microbiology, laboratory sciences, or a related field. An international equivalent in biological sciences within a clinical or diagnostic specialty is acceptable. Advanced degrees or certifications in relevant fields may be advantageous but are not explicitly required.

Experience:
The role demands a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience, particularly in the areas of infectious disease diagnostics and laboratory systems strengthening. Candidates should have a proven track record of designing, implementing, and managing laboratory initiatives, as well as experience in capacity building and training laboratory personnel. Experience working with government agencies, especially in the context of health strategy development and implementation, is highly valued.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, as the role involves extensive communication with various stakeholders. Knowledge of Filipino or other local languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Manila, Philippines, and may require domestic travel of at least 25%. The job is full-time and involves collaboration with various stakeholders, including government agencies and international organizations. FHI 360 is committed to equal opportunity and affirmative action, ensuring a diverse and inclusive work environment. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and emphasizes professional development and work/life balance.