AVoHC Rapid Responder - Microbiologist / Medical Laboratory Expert at African Union(AU)

Requisition ID: 2558
Number of Positions: 125

Purpose of Job

• The Africa CDC seeks to recruit a national and citizen of any Member State of the African Union to be a roster member of the African Volunteers Health Corps.
• This is not recruitment for employment but volunteer service for Africa CDC.
• The potential AVoHC Volunteers candidates are those who have experience in Public Health Management, social and behavioural science, epidemiology, communication, Infection Prevention and Control, laboratory, mental health, etc., from Africa Union Member States.
• The potential applicants are encouraged to be fully employed and willing to volunteer for the skills and competencies any time requested by Africa CDC. 

Main Functions

• In the context of the Africa CDC Public Health Emergency Incident Management System (IMS), at the different levels, the microbiologist shall provide laboratory expertise in a team responsible for the delivery of diagnostic, scientific and technical microbiology while on deployment in MS.
• S/he will ensure delivery of diagnostic assays as well as delivering training to local staff or conducting outbreak related research.

Specific Responsibilities
The Laboratory Expert shall perform the following major duties and responsibilities:

• Conduct routine laboratory tests for specific infectious diseases in collaboration with the host MS
• Design and conduct training and capacity building on different laboratory techniques
• Develop and implement standard protocols (Guidelines, SOP's, manuals, etc.) to strengthen infectious diseases laboratory detection capacity
• Ensure biosafety and biosecurity measures are in place and implemented
• Facilitate trainings on laboratory tests and related issues in collaboration with other agencies and sectors
• Ensure standardization of the laboratories including accreditation
• Involve in outbreak response efforts through collection of samples, and undertaking laboratory investigations
• Maintain appropriate sample storage, testing and disposal and biosafety and biosecurity measures
• Strengthen laboratory information management system
• Responsible for ensuring procurement of all necessary laboratory equipment’s and supplies.

Academic Requirements and Relevant Experience

• Bachelor’s or Master’s Degree in Medical laboratory (microbiology, virology, medical biology) science or other relevant field from recognized university with 2 years (for master holder) or 5 years (for Bachelor holders) relevant work experience.

Knowledge and experience:

• Experience of molecular biology (including real time PCR), serology (including ELISA and IFA) and bacteriology.
• Experience in leading microbiology-based research projects or diagnostic laboratories.
• Experience in public health emergency response as part of national rapid response team.

Required Skills
Functional Skills:

• Ability to maintain quality, safety, and/or infection control standards.
• Ability to prepare and process laboratory samples using established protocols.
• Ability to monitor and/or maintain quality control standards.
• Records maintenance skills.
• Knowledge of related accreditation and certification requirements.
• Knowledge of laboratory and experimental protocols and procedures.
• Ability to utilize, calibrate, configure and/or troubleshoot laboratory testing systems and instruments.
• Ability to isolate and identify specimens using advanced laboratory techniques and equipment.
• Knowledge of sterile procedures.

Personal Abilities:

• Ability to work under pressure, stay on track and meet deadlines 
• Analytical and problem-solving abilities 
• Proven ability to produce precise and intelligible reports and office briefs in line with the requirements of the Africa CDC. 
• Able to operate in a multicultural environment 
• High level of autonomy at work, yet with profound team-spirit 
• Adaptive, patient, resourceful, resilient and flexible 
• Pro-active and solutions oriented 
• Knowledge of results-based management.

Tenure of Appointment:

• The AVoHC Team Members will be deployed on on-call basis, based on the incident. The Africa CDC will determine the duration of deployment in consultation with member state authorities.

Gender Mainstreaming:

• The AU Commission is an equal opportunity employer and qualified women are strongly encouraged to apply.

Renumeration
This is call for AVoHC membership. Successful applicants are not entitled to any monetary incentives during membership.  However, during assignment, deployed experts will have rights to the following:

• Economic class round-trip ticks and other travel related expenses
• Health insurance during the deployment period
• Stipend , communications, Incidentals and Risk allowance
• Accommodation allowance in case of deployment outside of the city of residence
• Certificate of recognition of your contribution at the end of deployment.