Antimicrobial Susceptibility Testing Expert at Peltom Global Services

The project

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) poses a critical public health threat globally, with Nigeria especially vulnerable due to factors like antibiotic misuse in medicine and agriculture and easy access to non-prescribed antibiotics. Weak laboratory and surveillance systems further aggravate the issue. To address AMR, this project will support Nigeria in enhancing laboratory capacity for surveillance, aligned with the National Action Plan on AMR, which calls for stronger surveillance, improved infection control, and better regulation. Collaborating with national health institutions, the private sector, and stakeholders, the project aims to build a resilient AMR response, improving health outcomes and preserving antimicrobial effectiveness. 

The objectives of the project

•  To review existing protocols related to antimicrobial susceptibility testing (AST) and standardize national guidelines for AST and the identification protocols for pathogens of interest in AMR surveillance. 
• To conduct comprehensive training programs for laboratory professionals in the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the 36+1 states in Nigeria to ensure they are well-versed in the latest AMR detection, interpretation standards and established AST guidelines. 
• To establish a pilot environmental surveillance system to test and refine surveillance methodologies, which includes the development of implementation plans and data management systems tailored to AMR data analysis and reporting. 
• To implement a system of regular supportive supervision visits to monitor, evaluate, and provide ongoing assistance to laboratory facilities nationwide, ensuring consistent application of AMR surveillance protocols. 
• To educate and train laboratory staff from research and clinical diagnostic facilities on standardized procedures for the transfer and archiving of biological materials related to AMR. 
• To harmonize existing guidelines on the collection, transfer, and storage of biological materials to prevent discrepancies and improve the reliability of AMR data across different regions and facilities. 
• To disseminate updated and harmonized guidelines and procedures across the six geopolitical zones of Nigeria to ensure a consistent approach in handling biological materials used in AMR surveillance. 

Employment type: Part-time

Roles and Responsibilities

• Conduct desk reviews around the AMR/AST topic
• Facilitate sessions/discussions around the AST topic including workshops on the development of the national AST protocols and guidelines for AST
• Development of a manual for the identification of pathogens of interest in AMR.
• Train laboratory professionals on standards for AMR detection and interpretation to ensure capacity and adherence to protocols in public and private facilities 
• Review and harmonization of the guidelines on the procedures and processes for biological materials collection and transfer
• Write reports

Deliverables

• Submit developed AST protocol
• Submit developed AST guidelines
• Submit developed training plan and manual (including training materials) for the training of laboratory professionals on standards for AMR detection and interpretation to ensure capacity and adherence to protocols 
• Submit harmonized guidelines on the procedures and processes for biological materials collection and transfer
• Submit workshop, training, and consultancy reports

Requirements/qualifications

• Laboratory scientist, microbiologist or equivalent degree
• At least 5 years experience in the AMR/AST sub-space including bench work
• Cognate experience in facilitating AST sessions and capacity-building exercises.