Healthcare and MedicalFull-TimeSenior-level(6+ yrs)
Job Description
FHI 360 is seeking a Country Laboratory and Diagnostics Specialist to provide overall technical leadership and strategic guidance for the laboratory and diagnostic services component of the STRIDES project in Kenya. This role involves coordination with other Global Health Security (GHS) technical areas (e.g., surveillance, data, etc.) to ensure synergy and alignment with project objectives. The specialist will work closely with national, regional, and local counterparts to strengthen laboratory systems and diagnostic services.
Key Responsibilities
Technical Requirements
Provide strategic guidance to project staff for laboratory and diagnostic services.
Monitor and maintain project protocols, instruments, data sets, manuals, and training materials.
Offer subject matter expertise in antimicrobial resistance, zoonotic diseases, biosafety/biosecurity, and diagnostic networks.
Provide technical support for the scale-up and optimization of new diagnostic tools.
Conduct diagnostic network and laboratory capacity assessments and provide recommendations.
Contribute to research initiatives to improve laboratory practices.
Project Design and Implementation
Promote the integration of new diagnostic technologies and methodologies based on country needs.
Develop and monitor technical components of project work plans, budgets, and resources.
Analyze project implementation to identify areas for improvement and manage risks.
Monitor project results and deliverables, raising issues to management as necessary.
Client and Funder Support
Build and maintain productive working relationships with government agencies, academia, and international organizations.
Assist in preparing work plans, presentations, and reports for the Department of State (DoS) and other stakeholders.
Represent the project in meetings and technical forums.
Operations and Reporting
Oversee project timelines and budgets to ensure activities are on track.
Manage procurement processes in coordination with the Department of State and suppliers.
Prepare technical content including summary reports, presentations, and manuscripts.
Participate in data review to support data-driven decision-making.
Required Qualifications and Experience
Education: Bachelor's degree in Microbiology or its international equivalent in biological sciences within a clinical or medical laboratory diagnostic discipline.
Experience: Typically requires 6+ years of relevant experience working with infectious disease diagnostics and/or in laboratory systems strengthening.
Knowledge: Extensive understanding of laboratory practices, quality assurance systems, Laboratory Information Management Systems (LIMS), and infectious disease transmission/control procedures.
Skills and Competencies
Proficiency in database management software and on-line search tools.
Excellent oral and written communication skills in fluent English.
Strong organizational and analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data.
Sensitivity to cultural diversity and understanding of political/ethical issues in health sectors.
Ability to solve problems and implement corrective actions.
Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should apply online through the official FHI 360 career portal at Workday. You can find the application link via the FHI 360 Application Page.
