Director Center for Laboratory Diagnostics and Systems

The Director Center for Laboratory Diagnostics and Systems provides strategic leadership and oversight for enhancing laboratory systems and networks across Africa, focusing on infrastructure improvement, advanced technologies, and strengthening laboratory capacity for public health disease response.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic direction to Africa CDC/AU on continental efforts to strengthen laboratory systems and networks
• Lead development and implementation of initiatives to improve laboratory infrastructure and technologies
• Oversee and coordinate development of national laboratory strategic plans and policies addressing dangerous pathogens
• Promote comprehensive laboratory quality management systems including accreditation
• Develop, implement, and evaluate programs and projects to enhance laboratory capacities
• Lead efforts to improve systems, standards, biosafety, and networks linked to disease surveillance and clinical care
• Guide research and laboratory investigations for new or improved diagnostic and preventive tools and technologies
• Develop capacity of RISLNET for advanced molecular technologies and surveillance networks
• Manage strain banks as repositories for diagnostic and vaccine development against emerging pathogens
• Establish partnerships with public and private sector organizations including professional associations, universities, and research organizations
• Represent Africa CDC at relevant meetings, conferences, and committees in laboratory science
• Oversee, mentor, and guide development of peer-reviewed research publications in laboratory science
• Promote and support innovative laboratory practices to enhance patient care, treatment, and disease surveillance
• Directly prepare manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication in scientific journals
• Oversee translation of program needs into research projects and new research findings into programmatic changes
• Coordinate delivery of laboratory services in support of Africa CDC Emergency Response activities as assigned
• Maintain communication with key stakeholders in laboratory science fostering collaborative approach to public health challenges
• Advocate for advancement of laboratory diagnostics and systems within continental public health framework

Requirements

• Advanced degree (Ph.D., MD, or equivalent) in Clinical Laboratory Science, Pathology, Molecular Biology
• Master degree in Laboratory Sciences, Public Health or Epidemiology
• Minimum of 15 years of experience in laboratory management
• At least 8 years served at managerial level
• At least 5 years served at supervisory level
• Proven track record in leadership roles within public health or scientific research organizations
• Experience in international organizations preferred
• Demonstrated experience in strategic planning, program implementation, and research in laboratory or public health setting
• Significant experience developing senior-level external relationships and securing highest-level advocacy
• Advanced understanding of stakeholder engagement
• Extensive experience leading, motivating and managing teams promoting high performance, continuous improvement and innovation
• Experience working in diverse complex fast paced environments and ability to influence positive change
• Strong leadership and strategic management skills
• Excellent communication and stakeholder engagement abilities
• Proficient in risk management and organizational resilience
• Demonstrated capability in resource mobilization and financial management
• Ability to work effectively in diverse, multi-cultural environment
• Experience working in international affairs in international organization (desirable)
• Experience working with external partners, funders, and media (desirable)
• Understanding of changing economic, political, and social environments affecting Africa CDC (desirable)
• Understanding and analysis of Africa and global political space and atmosphere (desirable)
• High level of diplomatic and communication etiquette
• High level interpersonal skills

Skills

• Clinical Laboratory Science
• Pathology
• Molecular Biology
• Laboratory Sciences
• Public Health
• Epidemiology
• Laboratory Services Management
• Program Implementation
• Strategic Planning
• Research Management
• Stakeholder Engagement
• Team Leadership
• Risk Management
• Organizational Resilience
• Resource Mobilization
• Finance Management
• International Organization Experience
• External Relations
• Advocacy
• Communication Etiquette

Languages

Arabic, English, French, Kiswahili, Portuguese, Spanish