Laboratory Coordinator

Overview

The Laboratory Coordinator will ensure the smooth functioning of laboratory services across project sites, focusing on diagnostic procedures, sample processing, and aiding in the early detection and treatment of breast cancer. The coordinator will collaborate with the Ghana Health Service (GHS) and the Ministry of Health (MOH) to create training manuals aimed at strengthening the capacity of laboratory scientists in core biopsy/FNAC processing and biomarker analysis, while also reviewing policy documents related to specimen referral pathways

Responsibilities

• Provide technical guidance for the development and updating of national policies and strategies on laboratory workflows for breast cancer diagnosis, including sample collection, handling, and testing methods. • Offer technical advice on laboratory strengthening for breast cancer diagnostics, coordinating technical support for all laboratories, reviewing technical documents, and guiding the implementation of diagnostic algorithms, new technologies, and approaches. • Assist GHS/MOH in developing an assessment tool for specimen referral systems. • Collaborate with GHS/MOH to implement and monitor quality assurance programs, ensuring the accuracy and reliability of laboratory results. • Train laboratory scientists and other staff on best practices for sample handling and processing, quality control, and safety procedures. • Work closely with oncologists, pathologists, and radiologists to facilitate the workflow of patient samples, result reporting, and follow-up cases. • Oversee the updating and maintenance of relevant reporting and information management systems, including registries. • Support the development and review of equipment and logistics for procurement. • Perform other related tasks as assigned by the Project Director.

Requirements

• A Master's degree or equivalent in biomedical laboratory science, molecular biology, pathology, public health, or any related field. • A Bachelor's degree in biomedical laboratory science or a health-related profession is essential. • Certification or training in cancer epidemiology and laboratory techniques is a plus. • At least 7 years of progressively responsible experience in managing laboratory services and diagnosing non-communicable diseases at the national level. • Experience in improving infrastructure and procedures for pathology services. • Experience in planning and delivering diagnostics training. • Strong knowledge of quality assurance systems. • Familiarity with the Ghana Health Service and its reporting structure, along with proven ability to collaborate with government officials to enhance program implementation. • Demonstrated experience working with a diverse range of local and international partner organizations. • Strong facilitation, team-building, and coordination skills. • Excellent writing and communication skills, including experience in technical writing for publication. • Ability to work effectively with diverse international teams, and a willingness to learn and empower others. • Able to thrive in a complex environment with multiple tasks, tight deadlines, and high-pressure situations. • Willingness to travel frequently to project regions and health facilities. • Proficiency with MS Suite, Zoom, and other virtual platforms.