Laboratory Scientist & Adviser, Tuvalu

About the role

Abt Global's Specialist Health Service, which advises the Australian Government's Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade on health, is offering a Laboratory Scientist & Adviser position in Tuvalu. The role supports the Princess Margaret Hospital's microbiology laboratory, building staff capacity, improving systems and processes and helping the team secure government funding for testing and diagnostics. It runs from 1 January 2027 to 31 December 2027, with a possible 12-month extension.

Key responsibilities

• Work with the Laboratory Manager to strengthen quality management, strategic planning and coordination, and embed new testing capabilities
• Develop or update training plans, provide documented training and competency assessments (e.g. open RT-PCR, infection prevention and control)
• Mentor staff, update laboratory protocols and quality management systems, and support engagement with WHO and the Pacific Community on the Laboratory Policy
• Help improve laboratory information management and supply chain best practices, and support new testing regimes requested by the Ministry of Health
• Review equipment procurement and donation policies, and strengthen forecasting and procurement of lab supplies
• Analyse lab data such as turnaround times, sample quality and external quality assurance results
• Prepare handover, transition and exit plans, and carry out administrative duties as required

Required profile

• Proven experience leading a small laboratory team in a resource-limited context (preferred)
• Proven experience in capacity building and training
• Experience developing and updating standard operating procedures and implementing laboratory quality management systems
• Experience working in the Pacific
• Excellent spoken and written English and respectful engagement with national counterparts

Required skills

• Tertiary qualification or equivalent experience
• Training and competency in laboratory infection prevention and control (auditing experience preferred)
• Ability to work proactively in a low-resource setting and to review evidence for recommendations

What we offer

• Remuneration of AUD 10,595 to 13,387 per month, inclusive of superannuation if applicable, plus location and special allowances
• Fixed-term appointment with a possible 12-month extension

To apply, submit a CV and a cover letter as a single PDF through the Abt Global application process, citing how you meet the key requirements. The closing date is 5 November.