National Consultant for Feasibility Study of Bio-Training and Bio-Manufacturing Center

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO aims to achieve universal health coverage, protect people from health emergencies, and ensure that everyone can enjoy better health and well-being. The organization collaborates with various partners and stakeholders to strengthen health systems and improve health outcomes globally.

Job Overview:
The National Consultant will play a pivotal role in leading the feasibility study for the establishment of a national bio-manufacturing center in Tunisia, known as the TUNISIA Bio Hub. This initiative is part of Tunisia's broader strategy to enhance its health sovereignty by developing local capabilities for the production of biotechnology-derived medicines, including vaccines and monoclonal antibodies. The consultant will be responsible for defining the strategic vision, objectives, and operational model of the center, as well as drafting technical frameworks and preliminary cost estimates. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders to ensure the successful establishment of the center, which is expected to have a significant positive impact on Tunisia and the broader EMRO region.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Develop a validated concept note outlining the strategic vision, objectives, target beneficiaries, governance, and operational model of the bio-training and bio-manufacturing center.
• Draft and validate technical frameworks, including User Requirement Specifications (URS) and preliminary design documents (APS/APD).
• Prepare preliminary cost estimates for the establishment of the bio-manufacturing center.
• Define technical requirements and selection criteria for the engineering/biopharmaceutical expert office.
• Conduct technical evaluations and prepare selection reports for consultancy firms.
• Provide technical support for contracting and onboarding of the selected expert office.
• Formalize partnerships with relevant national, regional, and international stakeholders.
• Review and validate technical deliverables produced by the expert office.
• Consolidate and validate detailed budget estimates aligned with technical designs. 1
• Prepare tender documentation for the construction of the bio-manufacturing center and procurement of necessary equipment. 1
• Provide technical support for the launch of tendering processes. 1
• Prepare quarterly progress reports and a final comprehensive report summarizing key results, lessons learned, and recommendations for future phases.

Required Qualifications:
Essential qualifications include a PhD in immunology, molecular genetics, biotechnology, or a related field pertinent to the biological production of medicine and vaccines. The candidate must possess a minimum of 10 years of expertise at both national and international levels in biological research, development, or production of medicines and vaccines. Additionally, management experience in a Bio Technopole at the national or international level for at least 5 years is considered an asset. Knowledge of the Tunisian health sector and context is crucial for this role.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold a PhD in a relevant field such as immunology, molecular genetics, or biotechnology, which is essential for understanding the complexities involved in the biological production of medicines and vaccines. This advanced degree should be obtained from an institution accredited or recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 10 years of relevant experience in biological research, development, or production of medicines and vaccines at both national and international levels. Additionally, candidates with at least 5 years of management experience in a Bio Technopole will have an advantage. Familiarity with the Tunisian health sector and its operational context is also essential.

Languages:
Fluency in French is mandatory, as it is the primary language of communication in Tunisia. Proficiency in English is considered an asset, enhancing the candidate's ability to engage with international stakeholders and resources.

Additional Notes:
The expected duration of the consultancy contract is 180 days. The consultant will be required to work primarily in Tunis and other governorates to facilitate funding and partnership development. Medical clearance is necessary, and the selected consultant must provide a medical certificate of fitness for work. The WHO emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization maintains a smoke-free environment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, ensuring a safe and respectful workplace.