Senior Diagnostic Officer

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PATH is a global nonprofit dedicated to achieving health equity. With more than 40 years of experience forging multisector partnerships and with expertise in science, economics, technology, advocacy, and dozens of other specialties, PATH develops and scales up innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing heath challenges.

PATH will be implementing the USAID multi-year project called “Strengthening Local Health Security Activity in Vietnam.” The goal of the project is to strengthen Vietnam’s capacity at the sub-national levels to effectively prevent, detect, and respond to epidemic-prone emerging infectious diseases (EID) through One Health (human, animal, and environment) approaches to achieve Global Health Security targets for zoonotic diseases (ZDs), EID surveillance and response, and risk communications and community engagement (now called “project”).

PATH is seeking qualified candidates for the position of Senior Diagnostic Officer who will be based in Hanoi, be responsible for the technical implementation of infectious disease diagnostics activities within the project scope in Vietnam. This includes strengthening laboratory systems in both animal health and human health sectors, establishment, and operation of One Health specimen referral systems (SRS).

Under the guidance and supervision of the Chief of Party and the Deputy Chief Party, report directly to the Deputy Chief of Party, the incumbent will be responsible for the following specific responsibilities:

• Work with Animal Health Surveillance and Detection Team Lead and partners to strengthen diagnostic capacity and establish a fully functional SRS in project supported provinces.

• Provide technical assistance in diagnostic strengthening and quality management systems including specimen referral systems, management information systems, diagnostic tools, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and biosecurity and biosafety.

• Develop the strategic plan and guidance to roll out the SRS to comply with government policies.

• Update and refine the SRS model developed by the Infectious disease detection and surveillance project to set up and implement a SRS model with real-time transport tracking in the project provinces.

• Work with key stakeholders to develop a fee-for-service SRS model in animal health and human health sectors.

• Assist to update and rollout policies on animal specimen referral and management.

• Adapt SRS training packages and conduct training of trainers, supervise field training and field staff - SRS under Hanoi University of Public Health on cascaded trainings, conduct supportive supervision trips, and follows up after cascade trainings.

• Review and analyze SRS data for system improvement.

• Conduct assessments of diagnostic facilities and develop strategic plans for enhancement.

• Build capacity among local diagnostic stakeholders and leaders.

• Assist the laboratory system in the integration of information systems including data management.

• Work closely with other project team members to develop the project quarterly, semi-annually, annual work plans and reports.

Required Skills and Experience:

• A minimum of Master in microbiology, clinical diagnostics, laboratory science, or an equivalent, Doctoral Degree is a plus

• At least five years of experience in diagnostic strengthening and capacity building.

• Familiar with laboratory quality assurance systems, especially, ISO 17025.

• Proven experiences in organizing necessary steps in sample collection, transportation and laboratory testing for zoonotic suspected cases.

• Knowledge and experience on laboratory biosafety and biosecurity and applying its principles.

• Experience in working with public and private sectors to operate specimen referral systems.

• Experience in working on laboratory capacity assessment and quality management.

• Knowledge and experience with strengthening laboratories including capacity building for laboratory and courier staff from both public and private sectors.

• Experience in working with laboratories from both animal health and human health sectors is an advantage.

• Excellent written and oral communication skills in both Vietnamese and English language.

• Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work well in multicultural teams and partners.

Location: Based at PATH office, Hanoi office

Division: Asia, Middle East and Europe (AMEE)

Duration: Life of project

PATH is dedicated to building an inclusive workforce where diversity is valued.

PATH is an equal opportunity employer. Every qualified applicant will be considered for employment.

PATH does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, caste, gender, sexual orientation, gender identity, genetic information, age, national origin, marital status, disability status, political ideology, military or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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