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Laboratory Manager

Ouagadougou

  • Organization: WHO - World Health Organization
  • Location: Ouagadougou
  • Grade: Mid level - P-4, International Professional - Internationally recruited position
  • Occupational Groups:
    • Biology and Chemistry
    • AF/CDS - Communicable Diseases
    • Managerial positions
  • Closing Date: Closed

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME

Interruption of onchocerciasis transmission and its verification requires laboratory processing of entomological and epidemiological samples from the field in endemic countries. The ESPEN Laboratory's primary role is to process vector samples and dried blood spots collected from countries to provide the critical data for these endemic countries to make the needed evidence-based decisions to stop MDA and verify that onchocerciasis transmission has been eliminated. The ESPEN Laboratory is also to build capacity in endemic countries and provide technical guidance initially for onchocerciasis and in the future for Lymphatic Filariasis (LF) and other PC-NTDS.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

Under the Direction of the ESPEN Team Leader and coordination with the ESPEN focal point for onchocerciasis and LF, the incumbent will\: 1. Liaise with the onchocerciasis focal points in endemic countries to coordinate the shipment of samples to the laboratory2. Oversee the processing of both the entomological and epidemiological samples (Vector samples, infective larvae/microfilariae and dried blood spots) in the Laboratory to provide accurate and timely data for decision-making on onchocerciasis elimination in endemic countries3. Analyze and interpret data produced in the ESPEN Laboratory and prepare feedback of results for countries towards onchocerciasis elimination.4. Plan and coordinate inter-country and in country-trainings to build capacity of nationals in the processing of onchocerciasis samples5. Prepare the Plan of Action and Budget for the ESPEN lab and submit to the ESPEN secretariat. 6. Follow up the implementation of recommendations on sample processing and technical support to countries from meetings of technical and other statutory WHO bodies 7. Liase with the onchocerciasis focal person in WHO/HQ/NTD and ESPEN Onchocerciasis/LF focal person to provide technical support for onchocerciasis elimination 8. Provide other related duties as requested by the ESPEN Coordinator/Team Lead.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Essential\: Masters degree in biological sciences (Parasitology, Entomology especially Vector Biology),
Desirable\: PhD in biological sciences.

Experience

Essential\: -At least7 years' experience in the management of a functional molecular and immunological laboratory related to the surveillance activities of Onchocerciasis and other priority NTDs in Africa.. - At least 7 years' experience inclusive in planning and conducting training of laboratory staff for surveillance and research activities on onchocerciasis and other major NTDs.
Desirable\: At least 5 years with WHO and a good publication record on onchocerciasis and other NTDs would be an assetCapability to work with people of different cultures

Skills

- Excellent knowledge of the epidemiology of Onchocerciasis (distribution, transmission, the socio-economic impact) and control and elimination strategies.in the African Region-A good knowledge of the epidemiology and the control strategies of lymphatic filariasis.- Ability organise and manage a functional laboratory.- Ability to conduct country need assessment in capacity building and coordinate trainings sessions to build capacity of nationals in Laboratory techniques related to onchocerciasis and LF.

WHO Competencies

Teamwork
Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
Communication
Producing results
Ensuring the effective use of resources
Creating an empowering and motivating environment

Use of Language Skills

Essential\:
Desirable\: Expert knowledge of English. Expert knowledge of French.
The above language requirements are interchangeable.

REMUNERATION

WHO salaries for staff in the Professional category are calculated in US dollars. The remuneration for the above position comprises an annual base salary starting at USD 72,637 (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance, as applicable), a variable post adjustment, which reflects the cost of living in a particular duty station, and currently amounts to USD 1895 per month for the duty station indicated above. Other benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

  • This vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level
  • Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.
  • A written test may be used as a form of screening.
  • In the event that your candidature is retained for an interview, you will be required to provide, in advance, a scanned copy of the degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificate(s) required for this position. WHO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed through the link\: http\://www.whed.net/. Some professional certificates may not appear in the WHED and will require individual review.
  • Any appointment/extension of appointment is subject to WHO Staff Regulations, Staff Rules and Manual.
  • Staff members in other duty stations are encouraged to apply.
  • WHO is committed to workforce diversity.
  • WHO has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of any form of tobacco.
  • WHO has a mobility policy which can be found at the following link\: http\://www.who.int/employment/en/. Candidates appointed to an international post with WHO are subject to mobility and may be assigned to any activity or duty station of the Organization throughout the world.
  • Applications from women and from nationals of non and underrepresented Member States are particularly encouraged.
This vacancy is now closed.
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