Laboratory Advisor at KNCV Tuberculosis Foundation

Purpose of the Job

• The Laboratory Advisor will work in close collaboration with State laboratory quality assurance officers in ensuring effective and quality laboratory services in States within the Nasarawa Cluster: Nasarawa, Plateau, Benue and Taraba
• Hierarchically, The Laboratory Advisor reports to the Senior Laboratory Advisor TB LON 1&2

Duties and Responsibilities

• Provide technical assistance to the TB LON Regions 1 & 2 activity in improving the laboratory systems as well as improving the use of laboratory-related data for decision-making.
• Support the development of TB laboratory strengthening/strategic plans within the context of national laboratory strategies.
• Provide support and technical assistance to sample transport networks and implementing mechanisms.
• Provide high-quality technical assistance to improve the implementation of the TB molecular tools.
• Coordinate and supervise TB LON Regions 1 & 2 supported laboratories to take initiatives to improve tuberculosis control through other TB laboratory technologies.
• In collaboration with the QA officer, LGATBLS, and other relevant stakeholders, support assessment and supervision of lab services in all LON-supported labs.
• In collaboration with National Reference Laboratories, ensure retrieval of all culture results and ensure documentation on patients’ records.
• Builds capacity of HCWs and partner organizations through training and mentorship.
• Stay up-to-date on international and local developments in the field of TB policies reviewing relevant literature.
• Liaise with State Quality Assurance Officer in facilitating quality expansion of TB diagnostic tools
• Periodically evaluate laboratory methods and procedures.
• Perform research for the purpose of testing and evaluating laboratory methods, devising new procedures, and simplifying existing tests.
• Serves as a resource and technical consultant to local physicians, local clinical and hospital laboratory personnel and health department staff in laboratory and testing issues.
• Oversee the implementation and monitoring of lab quality management activities
• Provide direction and facilitate efficient workflow in all departments of the laboratory
• Participate on behalf of KNCV TB Nigeria in relevant technical meetings.
• Perform other additional duties assigned.

Skills and Qualifications

• A Degree in Medical Laboratory Sciences and related fields (an MPH would be an advantage).
• A minimum of 5 years’ working experience in TB and/or HIV programs.
• Experience in working with: HIV & TB program, USG projects, or any development partner.
• Strong coordination, planning, and supervisory skills, and willingness to travel across the country and, if required, at short notice.
• Competent with laboratory operational plan development, implementation, and evaluation of results.
• Self-motivated with a strong ability to identify and develop relevant areas of work.
• Able to communicate complex issues in a concise, accessible, and engaging manner.
• Able to communicate complex issues in a concise, accessible, and engaging manner. 

What do we offer?

• A full-time (40 hours per week) fixed-term contract for a year, with the intention of extending the contract depending on funding and performance.
• Fast-paced and result-oriented culture.
• An informal work atmosphere in an international environment where initiative is appreciated.
• A highly motivated and diverse team of experienced, self-driven colleagues.
• Frequent capacity building and training.
• KNCV Nigeria has its own employment conditions scheme.