icddr,b is a Bangladesh-based international health research institute that strives to solve key public health problems through high-quality scientific research and innovation. icddrb as a values-based organization encourages women and people with disabilities.

icddr,b invites applications from suitable candidates for consultancy with the Programme on Emerging Infections under the Infectious Diseases Division to support National Tuberculosis Reference Laboratory (NTRL)/ Regional Tuberculosis Reference laboratory (RTRL) of National TB Control Programme (NTP).

Assignment / Activity: The consultants will serve as important resources to support TB diagnostic strengthening activities, National and Regional TB Reference Laboratories (NTRL & RTRL) and the NTP to strengthen overall capacity for the provision of routine diagnostic functions as well as for stronger functioning of the overall TB diagnostic network.

Location: Anywhere in Bangladesh

Expected start date of assignment: 1^st September 2023

Number of consultants: 02

Duration: 01 month. Contracts may be extended, subject to satisfactory performance and fund availability.

Scope of work:

The consultants will work closely with RTRLs and peripheral laboratories to improve the quality of laboratory services and assist NTP to strengthen TB laboratory networks in terms of quality diagnostic services and capacity development of laboratory staff.

The consultants will report to the Senior Scientist and Head, PEI, IDD.

Major responsibilities would include following-

Specific responsibilities include:

• Observe and monitor the performance of GeneXpert, Molecular Line Probe Assay(LPA), Liquid culture & DST for tuberculosis detection;
• Provide technical support to peripheral microscopy and GeneXpert laboratories as required;
• Supervise day-to-day activities of RTRLs to improve the quality of laboratory services;
• Advice the RTRL to identify TA needs and support activities to strengthen quality assurance for the LPA, culture and DST (solid and liquid) and GeneXpert tests;
• Provide support to the RTRL to establish mechanisms to supervise TB laboratories and enhance the quality and timeliness of services;
• Provide support to NTP in developing and implementing an EQA program for GeneXpert;
• Assist with the development of inventory for TB laboratory equipment and assist the RTRL to ensure preventive/routine/ periodic maintenance and troubleshooting for the equipment;
• Support the RTRLs and GeneXpert laboratories as needed in timely recording of diagnostic services data and preparing monthly, quarterly and annual reports as required;
• Provide support to the RTRL/NTP as needed in preparing requirements for laboratory reagents and consumables, materials and equipment;
• Monitor project deliverables and timeliness as they relate to the staff assigned to the RTRL and notify the ACTB Team Lead when issues arise for taking corrective actions, as needed;
• Advise the ACTB Team Lead in developing required project reports;
• Any other activities as assigned by the management from time to time.

Expected deliverables:

The consultants are expected to strengthen the diagnostic capacities of Regional TB Reference Laboratories and peripheral laboratories within Bangladesh in order to provide timely and universal access to diagnostic services to improve the detection of TB & DR TB cases.

Required qualifications and experience:

• M.Sc in Microbiology with a good academic record from reputed institute;
• Minimum 05 years experience in TB laboratory services with active involvement with NTRL / RTRL;
• Prior experience working in a USAID-supported project will be given preference.

Notes of attention:

• Only short-listed candidates shall be invited for the selection process;
• icddr,b does not charge any fee at any stage of the selection process.

Interested candidates who fulfil the requirements should submit online applications using icddr,b website: career.icddrb.org by August 07 , 2023