Technical Advisor - Vaccine Manufacturing (Retainer)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services), which was established to help the United Nations and its partners provide peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, humanitarian assistance, and sustainable development. UNOPS operates in over 80 countries and employs thousands of personnel, focusing on project management, infrastructure, and procurement services. The organization aims to support the implementation of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and enhance the effectiveness of development efforts globally.

Job Overview:
The position of Technical Advisor for Vaccine Manufacturing is critical in supporting Bangladesh's initiative to strengthen its health security framework through the establishment of domestic manufacturing capabilities for vaccines, therapeutics, and diagnostics. The consultant will conduct a comprehensive review of the Development Project Proposal (DPP) to ensure its strategic coherence and technical soundness. This role involves assessing the feasibility and cost-effectiveness of the DPP, ensuring alignment with national health priorities and global health security standards. The consultant will also evaluate the proposed manufacturing strategies, R&D components, and regulatory system strengthening efforts, providing actionable recommendations to enhance the project's overall impact and sustainability.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will be responsible for a range of duties including: conducting an in-depth analysis of the DPP focusing on technical, financial, regulatory, and operational aspects; reviewing the proposed manufacturing strategy for vaccine production and diagnostics; evaluating the R&D component and its objectives; ensuring compliance with WHO Good Manufacturing Practices (GMP); assessing the capacity-building framework for the Directorate General of Drug Administration (DGDA); providing strategic and operational recommendations; ensuring alignment with global health security priorities; and engaging with stakeholders to validate findings and ensure alignment with national health strategies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree or Masters in Public Health, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, Regulatory Affairs, or a related field. A minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in vaccine or biologics manufacturing, regulatory strengthening, or project planning is required. Experience with WHO prequalification and GMP certification is highly desirable. Knowledge of the WHO Global Benchmarking Tool and familiarity with health systems in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in South Asia, is an asset.

Educational Background:
The educational requirement for this position includes an advanced degree or Masters in fields such as Public Health, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, or Regulatory Affairs. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to the project and its objectives.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 7 years of professional experience in areas related to vaccine or biologics manufacturing, regulatory strengthening, or project planning. Candidates should have demonstrated experience with WHO prequalification processes and GMP certification, as well as a solid understanding of health system strengthening initiatives. Familiarity with the regulatory landscape in low- and middle-income countries, especially in South Asia, is considered an asset.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Candidates should possess full domain proficiency in English to effectively communicate and engage with stakeholders, as well as to produce high-quality reports and presentations. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is ICA (Retainer), with a contract level of ICS 11/LICA 11 (NOD Equivalent) and a duration of 3 months. The position is open only to Bangladeshi nationals. Candidates must complete mandatory courses before providing services to UNOPS, and these courses are not compensated. UNOPS emphasizes diversity and encourages applications from underrepresented groups, including women and individuals with disabilities. The organization also conducts background checks on all potential personnel, and recruitment is contingent on the results of these checks.