We seek a Program Officer (PO) to support the Deputy Director for R&D and the vector control team in developing and managing a portfolio of grants aimed to achieve long-term vector control in support of malaria elimination through the release of biologically modified insects. This includes specific grants to partners involved in the development of enabling technologies and generation of candidate insects using genetic modification and/or other biologic techniques, that support the technical development and evaluation for lead candidates, grants to build ethical and regulatory support for release of such insects, and grants for field site selection and capacity building.
Areas of Responsibility:
- Management of select grants involving gene drive and related investments engaged in modified insect biologic controlled release programs.
- Review of letters of inquiry & proposals including to provide clear, concise & insightful written analyses & recommendations for funding. Draft & edit proposal summaries & progress reports for existing investments for review by foundation leadership.
- Consult with partners to maximize impact of projects and ensure optimal learning. This may include: site visits, providing operational guidance and convening meetings of key stakeholders.
- Lead internal foundation matrix teams to develop, manage and implement project strategies as well as to negotiate, execute and manage complex, performance-based contracts/grants.
- Manage internal processes and portfolio progress while ensuring appropriate documentation, budgeting and reporting.
- Attend meetings to represent the foundation and shape global, regional and country agendas in line with foundation strategy; with guidance from the Director and Deputy Directors.
- Assist the Deputy Director in the management of the gene drive investment strategy for the Malaria team and other Foundation programs, as well as, ensure integration into the overall foundation malaria eradication strategy and Prevent Transmission investments.
- Serve as a thought leader and technical reviewer of the global effort to introduce this emerging gene drive technology to the field to impact public health.
- Provide technical support to the foundation’s Wolbachia Aedes program to include maximum cross learning and efficient use of resources.
- Work toward establishment of a community of practice in modified insect mass release programs.
- Communicate the gene drive R&D strategy and public health goals to internal and external senior leaders, advocacy partners and the press with support of foundation specialists.
- Contribute to the design of new strategies, collaborations and capacity-building implementation plans to ensure long-term sustainability and impact.
- Engagement in high quality interactions and clear and consistent communications with partners internally and in the field.
Educational Background:
A PhD or equivalent in entomology or a related field
Skills/Experience:
- A minimum of four years’ work experience in vector research & development and/or malaria. Experience working in a malaria-endemic country is required.
- Proven ability to evaluate new technologies and innovations, and manage specific projects.
- Proven ability to lead and influence others in a constructive manner and to build and sustain collaborative relationships with a wide variety of partners.
- Understanding of regulatory requirements for biologic controlled release programs and the Cartegena protocol for genetically modified organisms (GMOs) is preferred.
- Ability to work with flexibility, efficiency, enthusiasm and sensitivity in a fast-paced and complex environment and across barriers such as language, culture and distance.
- Experience in a role in a matrix organization requiring collaboration (both internally and externally), prioritization and results-orientation in a fast-paced, complex organization.
- Experience in strategic planning and strategy implementation.
- Outstanding people skills and a demonstrated ability to influence a wide range of individuals from different backgrounds, cultures and levels. Must possess strong relationship management skills to build trusting and productive relationships with a wide range of colleagues, leaders, consultants and other partners.
- Intellectual quickness, curiosity, discipline, resourcefulness and resilience.
- Ability to travel up to 30% domestically and internationally.
- Demonstrated ability to solve problems while bringing positive energy and a healthy sense of humor.
- Demonstrated passion for the foundation’s values with a commitment to deliver results against the foundation’s mission.
Job Function:
Organization Info
Listing Stats
Post Date:
Sep 6 2017
Active Until:
Oct 6 2017
Hiring Organization:
Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation
industry:
Nonprofit