Director, National Genomic Sequencing Facility (HPC/MO 5)

JOB PURPOSE

Under the direction of the Director, National Laboratory Services (NLS) the Director, National Genomic Sequencing Facility will provide clinical and strategic leadership to plan, organize and control the technical operations of the National Genomic Sequencing Facility(NGSF), and collaborates with the Director of Immunology and Consultant Microbiologist on operations of the BSL- 3 Facility in addition, to providing administrative oversight of all Genomic sequencing testing and clinical consultation on cases island wide.

KEY OUTPUTS:

• Technical direction and standards for the NGSF and BSL established.
• Preparation of the NGSF for designation as a WHO Regional HIV Drug Resistance Laboratory completed.
• Collaboration with CARPHA to position Jamaica as a sequencing hub for smaller Caribbean territories undertaken.
• Training programmes in Molecular Medicine were designed and delivered.
• Design, execution, and analysis of molecular medicine research projects overseen.
• Consultation services and technical guidance to stakeholders provided.
• Review of equipment specifications prior to tender conducted.
• Participation in technical evaluation of tenders conducted
• Strategic planning for supplies and equipment management for the NGSF and BSL-3 Facility developed.
• Specialist services for emerging and re-emerging pathogens delivered.

KEY RESPONSIBILITY AREAS

Management/Administrative Responsibilities

• Participates in the preparation of the Division's Operational and Strategic Plans.
• Reviews of the Annual Budget.
• Reviews data for submission to inform the annual budget, operational plan, performance indicators and procurement plan.
• Develops plans, programmes, set objectives and implement policies
• Ensures that the Inventory System is maintained.
• Ensures that all members of staff in the unit have written Job Descriptions
• Ensures that service providers are paid in keeping with contractual obligations
• Prepares Monthly, Annual Report and submits to Director NLS.
• Provides guidance, motivation and direction to subordinates including setting performance standards and monitoring performance. This includes performance evaluation of the staff
• Liaises with the Director of the NLS, and Human Resource Department regarding employment of personnel, leave allotment, allowances etc.

Technical Responsibilities

• Gives technical direction and establishes standards for Genomic Sequencing facility and BSL-3 operations according to PAHO/WHO standards
• Serves as a member of the Ministry of Health and Wellness HIV Drug Resistance Committee
• Prepares NGSF to be one of the WHO Regional HIVDR Laboratory in the Caribbean
• Liaises with CARPHA to make Jamaica one of the sequencing hubs for smaller territories
• Directs Training Programmes in Molecular Medicine
• Oversees the design, execution, and analysis of molecular medicine research projects, ensuring adherence to quality standards and ethical guidelines
• Reviews specifications for equipment before they are sent to tender
• Participates in the technical evaluation phase of the tender process for the unit as directed by the committee, Ministry of Health and Procurement
• Develops a strategic plan for the management of selected supplies and equipment for the Genomic Sequencing lab as well as the BSL-3 Facility

PERFORMANCE STANDARDS

• Operations of the NGSF and BSL-3 facility adhere to PAHO/WHO guidelines, MOHW policies, and ICT quality management protocols.
• Laboratory experiments, molecular medicine research projects, and data collection procedures are completed accurately, within established timelines, and meet quality standards.
• Training programmes in Molecular Medicine are delivered successfully, and staff and stakeholders demonstrate improved knowledge, skills, and competencies.
• Equipment specifications, procurement processes, and strategic planning for laboratory supplies and equipment are managed to ensure readiness, functionality, and operational efficiency.
• Technical advice, consultation services, and collaborations with regional and international partners are provided effectively, with responsiveness to client needs and feedback.
• Laboratory operations and research processes are continuously monitored and improved through implementation of quality initiatives, KPI tracking, and stakeholder feedback.
• Operational Plan and Budget developed and submitted within the established timeline

TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES

• Strong research, analytical and report writing skills
• Use of Genomic Sequencing Technologies
• In-depth knowledge of Sequencing and Laboratory Health procedures
• Knowledge of Bioinformatics
• Knowledge of GoJ Procurement policies and guidelines.
• Use of technology - relevant computer applications
• Knowledge of Public Health Laws and Regulations.
• Knowledge of statistical techniques and ability to analyze and interpret statistical data

MINIMUM REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

• MBBS and DM in Medical Microbiology
• Postgraduate qualification in specialty (Molecular Medicine/ Microbiology, Virology or Immunology)
• Clinical laboratory progressive experience with at least Seven (7) years in a supervisory position
• Experience in genomics and sequencing technologies
• Training with certification in Management
• Peer Approval

The Ministry of Health & Wellness thanks all applicants for their interest; however, please note that only short-listed candidates will be contacted.