Title: STRIDES Liberia Diagnostic Specialist (Consultant)

Reports to: FHI 360 Liberia Country Representative

FHI 360 is a nonprofit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in
lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Our staff includes experts in
health, public health threats, education, nutrition, economic development, youth, research,
technology, communication, and social marketing – creating a unique mix of capabilities to
address today’s interrelated development challenges. FHI 360 serves more than 50
countries and all U.S. states and territories.

Purpose of Consultancy:
The STRengthening Infectious disease DEtection Systems (STRIDES) Activity is seeking up to
two consultants to support technical implementation, and stakeholder management, for a
global health security (GHS) activity in Liberia. Working closely with the STRIDES Liberia
Technical Advisor, the STRIDES Liberia Diagnostic Specialist(s) ensure the quality and
timely implementation of STRIDES activities in Liberia with a specific focus on enhancing
the capacity of national and sub-national laboratory networks and surveillance systems;
developing and strengthening data collection, analysis, and reporting relating to surveillance
and detection systems; and, providing technical support during outbreaks for detection,
surveillance, and data analysis and management. Working across the human sectors, the
STRIDES Diagnostic Specialist(s) will support the implementation of the project work plan,
monitoring and evaluation activities, technical and financial reporting, and other
administrative elements of the Activity, as may be required.
The STRIDES Diagnostic Specialist(s) will be based in Lofa or Nimba and assigned to the
Ministry of Health’s Lofa or Nimba County Health Team to enhance its technical capacity to
effectively coordinate and supervise the diagnostic network capacity building in Lofa or
Nimba County.

Scope of Work:
• Provide technical assistance to the implementation of STRIDES activities in
consultation with the STRIDES Liberia Technical Advisor. Specific proposed activities
may include:
o Evaluating and mapping existing infectious disease laboratory and
surveillance systems and networks at the county, including specimen
transport and referral, for priority pathogens such as viral hemorrhagic fever
diseases, Lassa fever, including identifying gaps.
o Supporting the assessment of sample collection and packaging/transport
skills, identify gaps and strengthen the system, including training on sample
packaging.
o Reviewing and updating training materials for laboratory personnel on priority
pathogens
o Supporting the County Health Team (MOH) to develop and/or implement a
laboratory strategy for VHFs and other high-consequence pathogens with key
biosafety and biosecurity considerations.
o Reviewing and updating key laboratory Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
for VHFs, including Lassa Fever, sample handling, detection, and
biohazardous waste disposal.
• Provide input in the development of concept notes, implementation plans, activity
reports, and other need-based key deliverables as advised by the supervisor.
• Ensure engagement with relevant key stakeholders in consultation with the STRIDES
Liberia Technical Advisor.
• Share new knowledge/evidence and best practices with the team and partners.
• Builds capacity in local/county diagnostic stakeholders and leaders to identify and
oversee enhancements in diagnostic networks
• Provide technical assistance and training to diagnostic facilities and the county
diagnostic network as part of overall capacity building and continuous improvement
programs.
• Review relevant technical deliverables for quality and relevance before sending to the
STRIDES Liberia Technical Advisor.
• Provide programmatic inputs to the design and implementation of activities,
including inputs for activity budget development and monitoring.
• Support development or presentations, updates, reports, and other communications
during the consultancy on topics s/he is working on.
• Seek and provide support to ensure that project implementation adheres to evolving
USG guidelines and local rules and regulations.
• Provide support to surveillance activities implemented by STRIDES in Liberia.

Education and experience:
• Bachelor’s Degree or equivalent in clinical diagnostics or equivalent. A master’s
degree will be an added advantage.
• At least 6 years of relevant experience in diagnostic system strengthening and
capacity strengthening in the country including relevant public health and project
implementation experience, preferably in GHS. Proficient with applicable USAID or
other donor rules, regulations, and policies.
• Established relationships with local governments and stakeholders.
• Knowledge and experience working on the management and implementation of
human and/or animal health projects and interventions for infectious diseases or on
other public health interventions.
• Proficiency in English language (read, write, speak, and able to produce
reports/presentations consistent with best practices in the industry / subject and
meet client / funder contractual obligations) is required.
• Fluency in English is required.
• Experience working with the Government of Liberia is desirable.
Travel Requirements:
• Local travel 10-25%
Required documentation:
• Resume updated within the past three months
• Cover letter including proposed hourly rate
• Biodata form

Applications are due no later than 5:00 PM GMT on Friday, June 20, 2025. The required
documentation listed above must be emailed to Liberia.EpiC.recruitment@fhi360.org.