Within this context the incumbent will perform the following tasks: 

1. To foster linkages with stakeholders and laboratory networks; coordinate regional efforts with stakeholders and laboratory networks; and facilitate implementation of programs, partnerships and activities that support ART scale-up efforts.

2. To support validation of diagnostics and sound diagnostic practices to facilitate implementation of innovative and novel diagnostic testing practices for scale-up; the roll-out of guidance (taking into account the 2015 WHO consolidated guidelines on ARV and HIV testing services including certification of testing sites and testing personnel using a stepwise approach).

3. To coordinate the development of implementation guidance as tools for developing national viral load testing plans that are aligned with the broader laboratory strategic plans, as well as tools for a quality management system and quality assurance plans for viral load testing. The SLIPTA programme which is already being implemented in all countries for HIV serology testing will be the approach for establishing the QA programmes for HIV viral load testing.

4. Provide country technical support to develop national viral load testing plans and ensure all phase-in plans for viral load testing developed conform to the WHO standards; are feasible; and have clear timelines, approaches and actions for scaling up access to viral load testing for everyone on ART, as recommended in the WHO consolidated guidelines for HIV treatment.

5. In collaboration with MoH and partners, develop coasted phase-in and scale-up plans; monitor progress in implementing testing scale-up; and establish quality assurance (QA) programs for viral load, early infant diagnosis (EID), STIs and TB diagnostics. 

6. In collaboration with the HIVDR team, support countries in the West and Central Africa sub-region in implementation and monitoring of HIV Drug Resistance strategies, activities and surveys. 

7. To perform any other duties as assigned.

Desirable: 
Master in public health ( MPH)

Verification of Educational qualifications:
“In the event that your candidature is retained for an interview, you will be required to provide, in advance, a scanned copy of the degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificate(s) required for this position. WHO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU) / United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization UNESCO). The list can be accessed through the link: http://www.whed.net/. Some professional certificates may not appear in the WHED and these will be reviewed individually”.

Other Skills (e.g. IT):
Proficiency in Word, Excel, PowerPoint, Outlook, Internet, Laboratory Information systems, SPSS or other data software. Knowledge of common WHO applications would be an asset

WHO Competencies:
• Producing results
• Communicating in a credible and effective way
• Fostering integration and teamwork
• Knowing and managing yourself
• Moving forward in a changing environment

Desirable: 
International experience with WHO in Africa and developing countries would be an asset.

Please visit the following websites for detailed information on working with WHO:
http://www.who.int Click on: … to learn more about WHO’s operations 
http://icsc.un.org Click on: Quick Links > Salary Scales > by date 

Mobility (for international positions only)
Candidates appointed to an international post with WHO are subject to mobility and may be assigned to any activity or duty station of the Organization throughout the world.