WHO Consultant - Lab Specialist

Job Posting Organization:
The organization is focused on enhancing public health systems and laboratory capacities in Lebanon, particularly in the context of pandemic preparedness and response. It operates under the framework of the Pandemic Fund, aiming to strengthen the national laboratory system through various initiatives. The organization collaborates with the Ministry of Public Health and other stakeholders to improve laboratory services and ensure quality assurance in public health laboratories.

Job Overview:
The consultant will play a crucial role in enhancing Lebanon's national laboratory system by focusing on strengthening technical capacities, integrating digital solutions, and ensuring quality assurance across laboratory services. The position involves working closely with the Central Public Health Laboratory (CPHL) and selected public health laboratories to improve laboratory information management systems and enhance data quality for effective pandemic preparedness and response. The consultant will also be responsible for developing a national strategy and implementation roadmap for strengthening External Quality Assessment (EQA) systems, which are vital for ensuring the reliability and accuracy of laboratory results in the context of public health emergencies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include supporting the strengthening of laboratory technical competencies across the national laboratory network, particularly at the CPHL. This will involve updating training packages and materials based on identified competency gaps, conducting training sessions, and preparing training reports. Additionally, the consultant will assess existing laboratory information management systems, provide recommendations for improvements, and develop a framework for data quality assurance. The consultant will also be tasked with creating a national EQA assessment report, developing a strengthening plan for the National EQA Reference Laboratory, and ensuring that the recommendations align with the objectives of the Pandemic Fund.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a first university degree in Medicine, Laboratory Sciences, Microbiology, or a related field. An advanced degree, such as a Master's or PhD, is considered an asset. The consultant should have a minimum of 5 years of experience in laboratory systems strengthening, demonstrating expertise in laboratory quality management systems and assessment tools. Strong knowledge of national laboratory systems, including governance and referral systems, is essential, along with experience in laboratory information management systems and data management.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a first university degree in relevant fields such as Medicine, Laboratory Sciences, or Microbiology. An advanced degree, such as a Master's or PhD, would be advantageous and is preferred for candidates seeking to demonstrate a higher level of expertise in the field.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in laboratory systems strengthening. Candidates should have a proven track record of working in laboratory quality management systems and should be familiar with the challenges and requirements of laboratory operations in fragile or resource-constrained settings. Prior experience with organizations such as the WHO, CDC, or similar partners is desirable and will be viewed favorably.

Languages:
The consultant must have excellent knowledge of both English and Arabic, with proficiency in reading, writing, and speaking at an expert level. This bilingual capability is crucial for effective communication and collaboration with local stakeholders and international partners involved in public health initiatives.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is based in Beirut, with the expectation of weekly visits to the office. The contract duration is planned for 60 working days over a period of 6 months. The selected consultant will be under the technical supervision of the WHE Team Lead and will be required to provide a medical certificate of fitness for work prior to commencing the consultancy.