Qualifications:

• Advanced degree in laboratory sciences, microbiology, molecular biology, public health laboratory science, or a related field.
  
• Minimum of 7+ years of experience strengthening public health laboratory systems in low- and middle-income countries, preferably in sub-Saharan Africa.
  
• Demonstrated expertise in diagnostic testing, laboratory network development, quality management systems, biosafety/biosecurity, and laboratory information systems.
  
• Experience working with Ministries of Health, national reference laboratories, CDC, and global laboratory partners.
  
• Familiarity with International Health Regulations (IHR), WHO laboratory frameworks, and CDC laboratory strengthening guidance.
  
• Strong communication skills, including both written and oral presentation skills; proven ability to develop and communicate a common vision among diverse public and private partners.
  

• Provide technical leadership for the design, implementation, and monitoring of laboratory system strengthening activities, including diagnostics, laboratory networks, quality management systems (QMS), biosafety and biosecurity, and laboratory information systems (LIS).
  
• Support Ministries of Health and national public health laboratories to improve detection, diagnostics, and sequencing capacity for priority public health threats.
  
• Strengthen laboratory information systems, reporting pathways, and interoperability with disease surveillance and early warning systems.
  
• Improve sample referral, transport, and specimen management systems, including protocols, logistics coordination, and data tracking.
  
• Lead and support laboratory assessments, gap analyses, and the development and implementation of costed improvement plans.
  
• Provide technical guidance on quality assurance, proficiency testing, accreditation readiness, and continuous quality improvement.
  
• Facilitate coordination between laboratory, surveillance, and emergency response teams to ensure a cohesive national detection and response strategy.
  
• Represent the project in engagements with MOHs, CDC, regional laboratory networks, implementing partners, and technical working groups.
  
• Contribute to high-quality technical documentation, assessments, reports, and lessons learned.
  
• Support the development of annual work plans, MERL processes, and technical reporting in alignment with CDC requirements.