Molecular and Genetic Standard Strengthening Officer

We’re looking for a Molecular & Genetic Standard Support Officer who can live and volunteer for six months in Vanuatu. 

·       To provide advice and direct support to the staff and management of Vanuatu National Reference Molecular laboratory on the implementation of “open” reverse transcription real-time PCR (RT-PCR), assist with developing and updating relevant laboratory protocols and strengthening laboratory quality management systems and information management as it pertains to RT-PCR, and provide advice in scaling up throughput of RT-PCR testing in the laboratory.

·       To be considered for this role, you’ll need a Degree or preferably postgraduate qualifications in Genetic and Neuroscience, extensive expertise in human genomics, PCR diagnostics, microbiology and neuroscience, Proficient in genetic techniques: RT-qPCR, DNA/RNA extraction, next-generation sequencing; protein analysis techniques; and bacterial culture techniques, and experience managing complex diagnostic research projects and patient trials.

·       You will be working with a small but dedicated Laboratory and Allied Health Team in this role

About the Partner Organisation 

Vila Central Hospital (VCH) is the main tertiary referral hospital for the whole of Vanuatu. Vila Central Hospital (VCH) is the main tertiary referral hospital for the whole of Vanuatu. They provide specialist clinical services to the people of Vanuatu and its visitors. It also provides specialist support services such as a pathology service and limited radiology services. The hospital also supports a nursing college for trainee nurses. In summary VCH delivers these program activities:

• Provides quality tertiary level health care to the population of Vanuatu including Clinical Specialist Services in Emergency Medicine, General Surgery, Internal Medicine, Obstetrics & Gynaecology, Paediatrics, Ophthalmology, ENT clinic, Dental clinic
• Nurse led clinics in ENT, eye, psychiatry and physiotherapy, general outpatients, and NCDs.
•  Main referral hospital for Vanuatu - we take all the referrals from the primary health care centres and rural hospitals
•  Training site for intern medical officers, nurses, and midwifery students.

About the Australian Volunteers Program  

The Australian Volunteers Program is an Australian government-funded initiative. We support partner organisations across the Pacific, Asia, and Africa to achieve locally led change.  

Volunteers are supported throughout their volunteer journey. We actively support and encourage people of all backgrounds and abilities to volunteer and aim to make the program as accessible and inclusive as possible. If you have accessibility requirements, please contact us to discuss how we can support you to volunteer with us - inclusion@australianvolunteers.com. Learn more about our commitment to inclusion.