Laboratory and Diagnostics Specialists

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a global organization that has been operational for over 50 years, dedicated to mobilizing research, resources, and relationships to ensure that people everywhere can access the opportunities they need to lead full, healthy lives. Established in 1977 in Nepal, FHI 360 has played a pivotal role in transforming the health and development landscape of the country. The organization works closely with the Government of Nepal, civil society, academia, and the private sector to deliver integrated programs across critical sectors, including health services, procurement and supply chain management, global health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, and air quality management. FHI 360 Nepal has consistently strengthened community capacities and institutional frameworks to create sustainable impacts, leveraging both global expertise and local insights.

Job Overview:
The Laboratory and Diagnostics Specialist will provide hands-on technical implementation support for the STRengthening Infectious disease DEtection Systems (STRIDES) Activity’s laboratory and diagnostic strategy. This role involves providing technical assistance to in-country staff, supporting technical requirements in workplan design, and ensuring quality assurance. The Specialist will implement and monitor strategic and technical initiatives, contributing expertise through the development and management of reports and technical materials. The position requires close collaboration with the Laboratory and Diagnostic Advisor and other teams to evaluate programmatic effectiveness, oversee technical aspects, and provide assessment reports. The Specialist will also be responsible for ensuring that laboratory and diagnostic services align with project goals and objectives, thereby enhancing the overall effectiveness of the STRIDES Activity.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The key responsibilities of the Laboratory and Diagnostics Specialist include providing day-to-day technical implementation support for laboratory and diagnostic services, including molecular diagnostics and genomic sequencing. The Specialist will monitor and maintain project protocols, instruments, data sets, manuals, training materials, and reports. They will respond to inquiries from internal and external staff and work closely with the project team to fulfill project objectives. The Specialist will contribute to the development of technical briefs and reports, support laboratory network strengthening activities, and assist in the scale-up of molecular diagnostics. They will conduct assessments of laboratory capacity, promote the integration of new diagnostic technologies, and ensure project activities are aligned with work plans. Additionally, the Specialist will monitor project timelines and budgets, provide technical input for laboratory-related procurement, and maintain systems for tracking budgets and deliverables.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s Degree in microbiology or an equivalent field within biological sciences, particularly in a clinical or diagnostic discipline. A minimum of 4 years of relevant experience in infectious disease diagnostics or laboratory systems strengthening is required. Demonstrated experience in training and mentoring laboratory staff on molecular diagnostics, sequencing, and quality assurance is essential. Prior experience in an NGO, government agency, or private sector, particularly with USG-funded projects, is preferred. Candidates should have a broad knowledge of laboratory practices, diagnostic techniques, and quality assurance systems, as well as an understanding of infectious diseases and their transmission.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position is a Bachelor’s Degree in microbiology or its equivalent in biological sciences, with a focus on clinical or diagnostic disciplines. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of laboratory systems and infectious disease diagnostics, which are central to the role.

Experience:
The position requires at least 4 years of relevant experience in the field of infectious disease diagnostics or laboratory systems strengthening. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in environments that require technical expertise in laboratory practices and diagnostics, as well as experience in training and supervising laboratory staff.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Nepali is mandatory, with excellent oral and written communication skills. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, but is not required for this position.

Additional Notes:
This position is full-time and based in Kathmandu, Nepal. The final deadline for applications is 5:00 p.m. on February 22, 202

• FHI 360 offers a competitive benefits package and emphasizes professional development and a healthy work/life balance. The organization is committed to equal employment opportunities and affirmative action, ensuring that all applicants are considered without discrimination based on various protected characteristics. Additionally, FHI 360 has a strong commitment to safeguarding against abuse and exploitation in its work environments and programs.