Provide training in EIA and RTPCR methods for the detection of suspected cases of measles and rubella virus;
Provide training to laboratory staff / healthcare workers of national laboratories in Kiribati, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu in quality assurance in preparation for EQA performance and WHO accreditation; and
Implement a delivery protocol of MR serology and molecular EQA panels for national VPD laboratories of Kiribati, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu.

Output/s

Output 1: Training in MR serological and molecular methods in the national laboratory of the Solomon Islands.
Deliverable 1.1: Install and train staff in the installation of all equipment including software for MR EIAs and RTPCR.
Deliverable 1.2: Face to face training on-site in serological and molecular methods for MR EIAs and RTPCR.

Output 2: Training of laboratory staff/healthcare workers in delivery of high performance in EQA schemes for MR in four established national laboratories in PICs (Kiribati, Solomon Islands, Tonga, and Vanuatu).
Deliverable 2.1: Face to face training in the preparation, performance, and analysis of external quality assurance schemes for vaccine preventable diseases with specific reference to measles and rubella.
Deliverable 2.2: Training in the procurement of EQA panels and the reporting of results.

Output 3: Design and establish a delivery system for MR serology and molecular EQA panels to the newly established national laboratory network in the PICS.
Deliverable 3.1: Organize meeting for the appropriate and responsible partners to discuss and agree shipping system for EQA panels for the laboratory network in the PICs.
Deliverable 3.2: Write up shipping system protocol for use as standard operating procedure in the national laboratories of Kiribati, Solomon Islands, Tonga and Vanuatu.

Qualifications, experience, skills and languages

Educational Qualifications:

Essential: First university degree in life science, medicine, molecular biology, or medical virology from an accredited/recognized institute.
Desirable: Training or qualification in bacteriology, infectious diseases, and/or epidemiology and laboratory techniques.

Experience:

Essential: Minimum 3 years relevant experience on laboratory quality assurance including face-to-face training in serological (EIA) and molecular (RTPCR) methods.
Desirable: Experience in setting up EIA and PCR equipment and software to deliver serological and molecular diagnostic service.

Skills/Knowledge:

Essential: Expert knowledge of EIA and RTPCR techniques, quality assurance practices and their application within laboratories.
Desirable: Writing standard operating procedures and protocols for laboratory quality management system.

Languages and level required:

Essential: Expert knowledge of English