The Principal Technical Officer is responsible for the overall technical leadership and management of the Institute of Genomics Unit. This includes developing and implementing research projects, managing staff, and providing technical support to the unit’s activities. The Principal Technical Officer will also work to build partnerships with other organizations to support the unit’s work.
Main Functions

This job involves the following main functions that are generally applicable for this category:
•    Take technical and intellectual lead in the management of various elements related to the area of expertise
•    Identify best practices and monitor effectiveness of the Africa CDC Lab division.
•    Provide support in the development of the strategies and business continuity plan and participate in/ensure their implementation
•    Foster and ensure implementation of initiatives related to 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 area of specialization, as required.
Specific Responsibilities

•    Develop and implement research projects in the areas of genomics, bioinformatics, and computational biology.
•    Designs and implements the strategic vision and operational plan for the Institute of Genomics Unit at Africa CDC
•    Leads and coordinates the development and execution of genomic research projects and initiatives in collaboration with internal and external partners
•    Provides technical guidance and oversight to the staff and consultants of the Institute of Genomics Unit, ensuring quality standards and best practices are followed
•    Manages the budget, resources, and contracts of the Institute of Genomics Unit, ensuring compliance with donor requirements and Africa CDC policies
•    Represents the Institute of Genomics Unit at regional and international meetings, conferences, and forums, promoting its achievements and advocating for its interests
•    Establishes and maintains effective relationships with key stakeholders, including governments, academic institutions, research organizations, donors, and civil society
•    Identifies and pursues new opportunities for funding, partnerships, and innovation to advance the goals and objectives of the Institute of Genomics Unit
•    Monitors and evaluates the performance and impact of the Institute of Genomics Unit, ensuring timely reporting and dissemination of results and lessons learned
•    Provides thought leadership and technical expertise on genomics and related fields to Africa CDC and its member states
•    Fosters a culture of excellence, learning, and collaboration within the Institute of Genomics Unit and across Africa CDC
•    Manages staff and ensures that they have the resources they need to do their jobs.
•    Provides technical support to the unit’s activities, such as data analysis and interpretation.
•    Builds partnerships with other organizations to support the unit’s work.
•    Represents the unit at regional and international meetings and events.
•    Publishes articles and reports on the unit’s work.
Academic Requirements and Relevant Experience

•    Masters Degree in Genomics, Molecular Biology, Bioinformatics, or a related field
•    PhD Degree in the above areas of study will be an advantage.
•    At least ten (10) years of relevant work experience in genomic surveillance, preferably in public health or infectious diseases, including six (6) years at expert level.
•    Experience in working in Africa or with African institutions
•    Knowledge of the African CDC mandate, vision, and strategic priorities
•    Experience in research and development in genomics.
•    Proven ability to manage and lead teams.
•    Experience in developing and implementing research projects.
•    Experience in managing staff.
•    Experience in providing technical support.
•    Experience in building partnerships.
•    Experience in writing and publishing scientific articles.
•    Experience in networking and building relationships.
Required Skills

•    Demonstrated leadership and management skills, including project planning, budgeting, monitoring and evaluation, and reporting
•    Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively with diverse stakeholders and audiences
•    Proficiency in one AU working language (English, French, Arabic, Portuguese, Spanish or Kiswahili) is required; proficiency in any two (with focus on English and French) will be a highly desired advantage.
•    Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
•    Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
Leadership Competencies