Principal Scientist for Biochemistry (AfCDC) at the African Union (AU)

The African Union (AU) is a continental body consisting of the 55 member states that make up the countries of the African Continent. It was officially launched in 2002 as a successor to the Organization of African Unity (OAU, 1963-1999). We are an Integrated, Prosperous and Peaceful Africa, driven by its own citizens and representing a dynamic force in the global arena.

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Principal Scientist for Biochemistry (AfCDC)

Requisition ID: 2026
Location: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
Reports to: Head of Institute, Genomics
Directorate/Department/Organ: Africa CDC
Division: Africa CDC Reference Laboratories
Job Grade: P4
Contract Type: Fixed term

Purpose of Job

• The Principal Scientist for Biochemistry will lead and coordinate the biochemistry activities of the Africa CDC Reference Laboratories Division.
• She/He will be responsible for overseeing the development, implementation, and evaluation of biochemistry methods and standards for the diagnosis, surveillance, and research of infectious diseases and public health emergencies in Africa.
• The Principal Scientist for Biochemistry will also provide technical guidance and support to the network of Africa CDC Regional Collaborating Centers and National Public Health Institutes on biochemistry-related issues.

Main Functions

• Take technical and intellectual lead in the management of various elements related to the area of expertise
• Provide support in the development of the strategies and business continuity plan and participate in/ensure their implementation
• Foster and ensure the implementation of initiatives related to the area of specialization
• Provide support in the organization of thematic networks, consultations, and meetings on development cooperation and international relations
• Develop materials and provide necessary training and support to Organization Units as required
• Provide technical guidance on matters relating to system review and implementation project in the area of specialization, as required.

Specific Responsibilities

• Lead Africa CDC/AU continental effort of strengthening laboratory systems and networks.
• Lead the development and implementation of initiatives to improve laboratory infrastructure and introduce better technologies to enhance laboratory capabilities across the continent.
• Oversee and coordinate efforts to assist countries in developing national laboratory strategic plans and policies that also address dangerous pathogens.
• Develop, implement, and evaluate programs and projects and provide consultation and expert scientific advice in support of laboratory research and development activities in agency programs to improve laboratory capacity in responding to diseases of public health importance.
• Lead efforts to improve systems (quality, standards, and biosafety), and networks with a linkage to disease surveillance and clinical care (public and private sector).
• Promote and guide the implementation of a comprehensive laboratory quality management system, including accreditation of laboratories.
• Promote and guide research and other laboratory investigations on new or improved tools and technologies for the definition, diagnosis, prevention, research, and control.
• Develop the capacity of RISLNET to implement modern advance molecular technologies, pathogen genomics surveillance networks, and multiplex detection assays, and other complex diagnostic procedures and tools.
• Develop and manage strain banks as repositories for diagnostic and vaccine development for emerging and re-emerging pathogens.
• Promote and support innovative laboratory practice to enhance patient care and treatment and strengthen disease surveillance at national and community levels.
• Oversee, mentor, and guide the development of peer-reviewed research publications in laboratory science. Directly prepares manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication in scientific journals.

Academic Requirements and Relevant Experience

• A Master's Degree in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, or a related field from a recognized institution. A PhD in the above fields will be an advantage.
• At least ten (10) years of relevant work experience in biochemistry, preferably in the field of infectious diseases and public health, including six (6) years at an expert level.
• Experience in biochemistry research and/or laboratory testing.
• Demonstrated expertise and experience in developing, validating, and applying biochemistry techniques such as PCR, ELISA, mass spectrometry, sequencing, etc. for the detection and characterization of pathogens and biomarkers.
• Proven track record of leading and managing biochemistry projects and teams in a laboratory setting.
• Willingness to travel within Africa and internationally as required.
• Experience with molecular biology techniques.
• Experience with mass spectrometry.
• Experience with data analysis and interpretation.
• Experience in writing and publishing scientific papers.
• Experience in working with international organizations.

Required Skills:

• Excellent communication, presentation, and writing skills in English and French.
• Strong leadership, interpersonal, and organizational skills.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.

Leadership Competencies:

• Strategic Insight
• Change Management
• Managing Risk

Core Competencies:

• Building Relationships
• Accountable and Complies with Rules
• Learning Orientation
• Communicating with Influence

Functional Competencies:

• Conceptual Thinking
• Job Knowledge and Information Sharing
• Drive for Results
• Continuous Improvement Orientation

Tenure of Appointment

• The appointment will be made on a fixed-term contract for a period of one (1) year, of which the first three (3) months will be considered a probationary period. Thereafter, the contract may be renewed for a similar period subject to funding availability, satisfactory performance, and agreed deliverables.

Gender Mainstreaming:

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

Remuneration
The salary attached to the position is an annual lump-sum of USD10,951.49 (P4 Step 5) inclusive of all allowances for internationally recruited staff, and US$ 92,867.97 inclusive of all allowances for locally recruited staff of the African Union Commission.

Application Closing Date
23rd November, 2023 (11h59 p.m. EAT)