Technical Advisor - Vaccine Manufacturing (Retainer)

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNOPS (United Nations Office for Project Services), which was established in 197

• UNOPS is dedicated to helping people build better lives and countries achieve sustainable development. The organization operates in over 80 countries and employs more than 1,500 personnel. UNOPS focuses on project management, infrastructure, procurement, and human resources, aiming to support the implementation of peace and security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security, humanitarian, and development initiatives.

Job Overview:
The Technical Advisor for Vaccine Manufacturing will play a crucial role in reviewing the Development Project Proposal (DPP) for the Government of Bangladesh's initiative to strengthen its health security framework through domestic vaccine and therapeutic production. The consultant will be responsible for ensuring that the DPP aligns with national health priorities and global health security standards. This position requires a comprehensive analysis of the DPP, including its feasibility, cost-effectiveness, and potential for sustainable outcomes. The advisor will also assess the manufacturing strategy, R&D components, and regulatory system strengthening efforts, providing actionable recommendations to enhance the project's technical feasibility and long-term sustainability.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will conduct a thorough appraisal of the DPP, focusing on several key areas:

• DPP Analysis: Perform a detailed technical, financial, regulatory, and operational review of the DPP to ensure internal consistency and alignment with development frameworks.
• Manufacturing Strategy Review: Evaluate the proposed manufacturing plan, including capacity targets and compliance with international standards.
• R&D Component Evaluation: Assess the structure and objectives of the in-house R&D unit.
• Infrastructure and GMP Compliance: Review architectural plans for compliance with WHO GMP guidelines.
• Regulatory System Strengthening: Evaluate the capacity-building framework for the DGDA.
• Strategic and Operational Recommendations: Provide actionable recommendations for enhancing project feasibility and sustainability.
• Global and Regional Alignment: Ensure coherence with international health security priorities.
• Stakeholder Engagement: Consult with key stakeholders to validate findings and ensure alignment.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree (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. Familiarity with WHO prequalification and GMP certification is desired, along with knowledge of the WHO Global Benchmarking Tool and health system strengthening in low- and middle-income countries, particularly in South Asia.

Educational Background:
An advanced degree (Masters) in Public Health, Pharmaceutical Sciences, Biotechnology, Regulatory Affairs, or a related field is mandatory for this position. This educational background is essential to ensure that the candidate has the necessary knowledge and skills to effectively contribute to the project.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 7 years of experience in vaccine or biologics manufacturing, regulatory strengthening, or project planning. This level of experience is crucial for understanding the complexities of the health sector and the specific challenges faced in vaccine production and regulatory compliance.

Languages:
Full proficiency in English is mandatory for this position. This includes the ability to communicate effectively in both written and spoken forms. Knowledge of additional languages may be considered an asset but is not required.

Additional Notes:
The contract type for this position is an Individual Contractor Agreement (ICA), with a contract level equivalent to ICS 11/IICA 3 (P4 Equivalent). The contract duration is set for 3 months. It is important to note that UNOPS does not accept unsolicited resumes, and applications received after the closing date will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further assessments. UNOPS is committed to diversity and encourages qualified women and candidates from underrepresented groups to apply. Additionally, candidates may need to complete mandatory courses before providing services to UNOPS, and these courses will not be compensated.