About the opportunity
This consultancy provides technical and operational support to strengthen public health laboratory systems in the WHO South-East Asia Region. The consultant will support the implementation of the Public Health Laboratory Recognition Programme by building assessment capacity, facilitating self-assessments, and developing improvement plans. Tasks include assessing AMR national reference laboratories, mentoring staff, adapting WHO standardized laboratory protocols, and supporting national essential diagnostics lists to enhance disease surveillance and outbreak response.
Salary and benefits
- Monthly remuneration of USD 8,000 within the Band Level – B pay band range.
- Official travel expenses paid separately from remuneration.
Who can apply?
- Minimum university degree in Laboratory Medicine, Laboratory Sciences, Microbiology, Pathology, Molecular Biology, Virology, Bacteriology, Infectious Diseases, Epidemiology, Public Health, or Global Health.
- Minimum of 5 years of relevant experience in laboratory diagnostics or related work at public health, clinical, or research laboratories.
- Expert knowledge of English.
- Proven knowledge and skills in public health laboratory preparedness for infectious hazards, response readiness, and microbiological risk assessment.
- Strong technical advisory, managerial, writing, communication, and diplomatic skills.
- Desirable: Advanced degree in public health or microbiology, experience conducting training, experience in developing country settings, and prior WHO or Asia experience.
Required documents
- Scanned copies of required degree(s), diploma(s), or certificate(s) accredited in the World Higher Education Database (WHED) (required if retained for interview).
- Copy of updated vaccination card for WHO medical clearance.
When to apply
- Job posting date: August 26, 2026.
- Application deadline: September 15, 2026, at 9:59 PM (subject to local system settings).
How to apply
- Submit an application online via the official WHO Careers portal.
- Participate in a written screening test if selected.
- If shortlisted for interview, upload verified academic degree certificates from WHED-accredited institutions.
- Undergo background verification and fulfill WHO medical clearance and vaccination requirements.
Additional information
- The position is a 6-month full-time external consultancy contract.
- Duties require being on-site in New Delhi, India for insurance purposes, with tentative travel to Sri Lanka, Bangladesh, Timor-Leste, India, and Bhutan.
- Consultants operate as independent contractors and are responsible for their own tax and social security obligations.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Professionals with a background in laboratory medicine, microbiology, or public health who have at least 5 years of relevant experience.
- Experts in infectious disease hazards and laboratory preparedness looking to provide technical advisory services.
- Individuals with experience in developing country settings who are comfortable with regional travel across South-East Asia.
What should you think carefully about?
- The role is an independent consultancy, meaning the individual is responsible for their own tax and social security obligations.
- The position is based in New Delhi, India, and requires travel to multiple countries in the region, which may be demanding.
- Applicants must be prepared to undergo a written screening test and provide verified academic credentials if shortlisted.
- The contract is for 6 months, which may not suit those seeking long-term employment.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This consultancy is a perfect fit for a seasoned laboratory expert looking to influence public health systems at a regional level. It offers the chance to apply technical knowledge to strengthen national reference laboratories and disease surveillance, which is a high-impact goal for any professional in the global health sector.
Our take
This is a strong opportunity for experienced laboratory specialists to contribute to regional health security; it is less suitable for those who prefer permanent employment or who are not prepared for the responsibilities of an independent contractor.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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