Molecular Biologist
Organizational Context
The Expanded Special Project for Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (ESPEN) operates within the WHO African Region's Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Control cluster. ESPEN supports Member States in achieving SDG targets for preventive chemotherapy NTDs, focusing on elimination efforts in Africa and select Eastern Mediterranean countries. Its vision is an African Region with optimized healthcare services for disease control and eradication, promoting healthy environments and well-being.
Job Purpose
The Molecular Biologist role supports the ESPEN programme's objective to reduce morbidity, mortality, and disability associated with Neglected Tropical Diseases (NTDs). This position is crucial for facilitating integrated, evidence-based, and people-centered approaches to NTD elimination. The role involves laboratory supervision, coordination of sample repositories, development and dissemination of SOPs and quality assurance systems, and contributing to strategic information generation. It also supports country-level technical assistance, including data analysis for decision-making and capacity building through training, all aimed at strengthening laboratory systems for effective NTD control and elimination strategies in endemic countries.
Responsibilities
Supervise all laboratory tests, ensuring adherence to protocols and SOPs. Coordinate and oversee the development of the laboratory's biological sample repository. Collaborate with the Diagnostics and Laboratory Services Unit to align ESPEN's laboratory activities with regional strategies. Oversee the development, validation, and dissemination of SOPs and quality assurance systems. Ensure the laboratory contributes to regional norms for NTD diagnostic quality assurance. Document and disseminate best practices and laboratory protocols. Provide technical support for operational research and contribute to scientific reports and publications. Analyze assay results and provide data for NTD elimination decision-making. Contribute to planning and facilitating inter-country and in-country training for national laboratory staff on NTD analytics. Perform other duties as assigned by the ESPEN Team Lead.
Work Experience
Essential: Minimum of 5 years of national and international experience in applied molecular biology, specifically related to the surveillance of onchocerciasis and other priority NTDs in Africa. Desirable: Experience with WHO and a strong publication record on onchocerciasis and other NTDs; ability to work effectively with diverse cultural groups.
Skills
Excellent knowledge of onchocerciasis epidemiology and control strategies in Africa. Good knowledge of lymphatic filariasis and other NTD epidemiology and control strategies. Ability to organize and manage a functional laboratory. Capacity to conduct laboratory needs assessments and coordinate training for national staff on NTD laboratory techniques. WHO Competencies: Teamwork, Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences, Communication, Producing results, Creating an empowering and motivating environment. Language: Expert French, Intermediate English.