Call for applications: experts in HIV and/or hepatitis sought to join ELI core group for 2019–2020

WHO/Europe seeks a maximum of 3 new members to join the European Laboratory Initiative (ELI) core group for 2019–2020. With their expertise in HIV and/or hepatitis, the new members would strengthen ELI’s core group, following the recent expansion of ELI’s scope to encompass HIV and viral hepatitis, in addition to TB.

The ELI core group is an independent advisory and support group to WHO and partners, active in the field of laboratory services, which is hosted by WHO/Europe. It includes representatives of national programmes, research institutes and nongovernmental organizations.

Selection criteria

Applicants will be selected according to their technical expertise, working experience and constituency background (see details below), as well as geographical distribution and gender balance.

Deadline for application

31 January 2020

Technical background and experience

Expertise in HIV and/or hepatitis is sought at global, regional and/or country level, in the following areas:

• monitoring of WHO-recommended testing and diagnostics and related research
• development and implementation of new diagnostics, and monitoring and testing strategies
• development of policy guidance on appropriate laboratory technologies
• standardized quality assurance systems
• strengthening of laboratory systems
• laboratory capacity-building
• technology transfer
• biosafety and infection control.

A minimum of 5 years’ involvement in 1 or more of the above-mentioned areas is essential. Practical experience of implementing and/or advising on laboratory-related issues in high-priority countries in the WHO European Region would be an asset. Fluency in English is required.

How to apply for ELI core group membership

Interested individuals are invited to send their applications by email to the ELI Secretariat attaching their CV and a letter of motivation highlighting their experience and areas of expertise. A letter of support from the individual’s institution, stating that the applicant will be allowed sufficient time to carry out ELI responsibilities, will be requested for all short-listed candidates.

Background information

ELI serves as a regional platform for discussion and communication on TB, HIV and hepatitis laboratory diagnosis and testing. It aims to provide policy guidance and advice on:

• appropriate and efficient use of new technologies and their implementation
• best practice and advocacy
• development of capacity and standardized quality assurance systems
• facilitation of effective technology transfer and knowledge sharing
• resource management and mobilization
• expansion and facilitation of the use of quality-assured laboratory services.

ELI members are expected to contribute to the European laboratory network on TB, HIV and viral hepatitis by performing the tasks assigned to them, working from their home institution and following WHO global policies and guidelines for TB, HIV and viral hepatitis laboratories. This applies to both existing and future diagnostic tests. In addition, ELI core group members are expected to contribute time and expertise and provide leadership in the development of ELI partnership projects focused on the technical and managerial aspects of effective laboratory practices and systems.

ELI coordinates activities and works closely with the Global Laboratory Initiative, Better Labs for Better Health, and the European Centre for Disease Prevention and Control.

On 17 December 2019 the deadline was extended to 31 January 2020.