NAME OF PROJECT: Africa CDC Investment Financing Project

Assignment Title: Biobank Specialist 

Duration of contract:  Until  December 31, 2025 with possibility of extension based on   availability of funding and performance

Salary:  Salary is based on work experience and educational level.

1. Background

The Government of Ethiopia has received financial support from the World Bank to implement key activities under the Africa CDC Regional Investment Financing Project (ACDCP) aimed at strengthening regional infectious disease detection and response systems. Being one of the implementing agencies of the project, the Ethiopian Public Health Institute is planning to hire Biobank Specialist with strong qualification and experience. The objective is to ensure the effective establishment, operationalization, and maintenance of the national biobank center. The biobank center will support research, public health programs, disease surveillance and proficiency testing schemes through the production and management of standardized/ reference biological materials in accordance with international standards such as ISO 20387:2018.

2. Job Summary

The Biobank Specialist is responsible for managing the technical and operational aspects of the biobank, ensuring the proper identification, collection, secure storage, processing, and distribution of biological specimens and monitor the biospecimens solely utilized for ethically cleared and or dedicated purpose. The specialist will oversee the development of procedures, maintain quality standards, manage inventory and data systems, and support research and collaboration efforts. The role also includes building capacity through training and coordination with stakeholders to align biobank activities with EPHI’s strategic objectives.

3. Specific tasks / Activities /

 Sample Collection and Acquisition

• Collaborate with healthcare facilities, research institutions, and community programs to obtain biological specimens.

• Ensure ethical collection practices with informed consent from donors.

• Establish partnerships for obtaining rare or specialized samples.

• Coordinate the collection and delivery of biospecimens to the biobank center.

 Sample Preparation and Processing

• Verify the biospecimens and associated data for the desired analyte of interest.

• Aliquoting, centrifugation, or other pre-storage processing to prepare samples for long-term storage.

• Ensure proper cryopreservation techniques for cells, tissues, and other materials.

• Provide technical assistance for development of protocols for handling different types of biological specimens.

 Sample Storage and Inventory Management 

• Establish workflows for the secure handling and storage of biological specimens (e.g., blood, serum, DNA/RNA, tissues).

• Implement labeling, cataloging, and inventory systems for efficient sample retrieval and traceability.

• Monitor storage conditions using temperature logs and alarm systems, responding promptly to deviations.

• Conduct regular biospecimen inventory inspection and replenish.

• Ensure the preparation and signing of memorandum of understanding (MoU) with the biobank’s protentional customers, health facilities, research institutes, blood bank and indigenous and cross border biorepositories.

 Biosafety and Biosecurity

• Ensure implementation of safety protocols to prevent contamination or exposure to hazardous materials.

• Establish biosecurity measures to prevent unauthorized access to biospecimens and associated data.

• Conduct regular biosafety and biosecurity training for staff.

 Quality Management and Compliance

• Develop and implement a Quality Management System (QMS) for biobank operations in alignment with ISO 20387:2018.

• Conduct regular internal audits, risk assessments, and corrective actions to maintain compliance with national and international standards.

• Maintain records of equipment calibration, validation, and maintenance to ensure operational reliability.

Data Management

• Oversee the deployment and management of a Biobank Information Management System (BIMS) for the biobank.

• Ensure the integrity, confidentiality, and security of biobank data in compliance with applicable regulations.

• Generate periodic reports on inventory, usage, and operational metrics to support decision-making.

 Research and Collaboration

• Facilitate biobank resource requests from researchers and potential customers and clients in line with the biobank’s policy.

• Monitor and control access to biobank resource for researchers and public health programs, in adherence to ethical guidelines.

• Coordinate with national and international stakeholders to foster collaboration and exchange best practices in biobanking.

• Support research activities by providing technical expertise on sample preparation, storage, and utilization.

Training and Capacity Building

• Conduct training sessions for biobank staff and external stakeholders on biobank operations.

• Provide capacity-building activities for regional laboratories, research and academic institutes and other stakeholders to strengthen biobank-related skills.

• Provide mentorship and technical support to ensure consistent practices across biobank activities.

Number Required: 1

Methodology

The Biobank Specialist will work closely with the external quality assessment (EQA) and other divisions at LCBD, and relevant stakeholders to establish and maintain the national biobank. This includes regular collaboration with regional laboratories, researchers, and public health programs to ensure efficient and effective biobank operations.

1. Reporting

The Biobank Specialist will report to the EQA division head at LCBD. The specialist will provide the following deliverables:

• Monthly work plans and progress reports.

• Quarterly and annual performance reports.

• Any additional reports as required by supervisors

Job Requirements

• Minimum of a Master’s degree in Laboratory Sciences or health laboratory related field.

  • At least 10 years of progressive experience for MSc and 7 years for PhD in Clinical laboratory, biobanking, or biological specimen management. Having PhD has added advantage.

  • Proven expertise in implementing ISO 20387:2018 or similar standards in biobank operations.

  • Strong experience with Biobank Information Management Systems (BIMS) and data management.

  • Knowledge of biosafety, biosecurity, and ethical guidelines for biobank operations.

  • Excellent project management, communication, and stakeholder engagement skills.

  • Proficiency in Microsoft Office tools and biobank-specific software.

1. Contract Duration and Remuneration

• The contract is for one year, with potential extension based on performance and project needs.

• The specialist will be based at EPHI in Addis Ababa, with periodic travel to regions as required.

How To Apply

Note  Interested applicants can register in Online through only through THIS LINK send their CVs and relevant documents at the address given below within 07 days from the first appearance of the announcement

Remarks: Please attach copies of transcripts, academic degree, work experience  letters together with the application. If not attached the copies you may be not short listed.