-Scientific Leadership: Lead and direct high-impact research projects on endemic and emerging viruses and/or zoonotic viruses. A focus on veterinary and

agricultural viruses is also an asset. Provide strategic direction to research efforts towards the overall vision of the Virology Unit.

-Research Development: Design and implement innovative research methodologies, ensuring that experimental designs are robust and yield meaningful results that can drive One Health interventions.

-Laboratory Expertise: Utilize advanced laboratory techniques in molecular biology, tissue culture, serology, and sequencing, potentially in a BSL3 level environment.

Lead the development and optimization of protocols and ensure the highest standards of laboratory practice are maintained.

-Data Management: Oversee the analysis and interpretation of complex data sets, utilizing advanced statistical and computational tools to derive significant

insights and guide decision-making processes.

-Collaboration & Networking: Cultivate and maintain strong relationships with national and international partners, including scientific communities, public health authorities, and other stakeholders. Promote the exchange of knowledge and collaboration across research initiatives.

-Dissemination of Research: Ensure that research findings are effectively communicated through scientific publications, reports, and presentations. Advocate for

research priorities that align with global and regional One Health needs.

-Field Work Coordination: Lead field missions in harsh environments to collect samples and data, ensuring that field teams are effectively managed and that

research activities adhere to the highest ethical and safety standards.

- Mentorship & Supervision: Provide guidance and mentorship to junior scientists, students, technicians, and other team members. Oversee laboratory and field operations, ensuring the professional development of staff and the smooth execution of research projects.

-Staff Management & Capacity Building: Assist in the management and capacity building of the Virology Unit's staff, focusing on enhancing technical skills, fostering professional growth, and ensuring continuous improvement in research capabilities. Develop and implement training programs, workshops, and other initiatives to

build the expertise and competencies of the team.

- Funding & Resource Management: Identify funding opportunities, prepare grant proposals, and manage research budgets to secure the resources necessary for

sustaining and expanding the Virology Unit's research activities.

-Qualifications: Doctoral degree in Virology, Microbiology, or Infectiology (or related fields) completed, candidates who also have a pharmacist, medical, or

veterinary degree will be highly appreciated.

-Experience: Minimum of 5+ years of postdoctoral experience with a proven track record of leadership in scientific research, particularly in virology or related fields.

-Laboratory Expertise: Extensive experience in molecular biology, tissue culture, serology, and sequencing, preferably in a BSL3 environment, with the ability to lead

and innovate in these areas.

- Field Experience: Demonstrated ability to live and work in challenging environments, including fieldwork in remote or harsh conditions

.

- Mentorship & Management: Proven track record of mentorship in the laboratory setting, with previous experience managing technicians and junior scientists.

Ability to mentor and attract Masters, Ph.D., and postdoctoral trainees is ideal.

- Funding & Project Management: Demonstrated ability to attract and execute funded research projects, with proven experience in managing research budgets,

including financial planning, resource allocation, and ensuring compliance with funding requirements.

-Communication Skills: Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English, with the ability to effectively disseminate complex scientific information to

diverse audiences.

- Collaborative Approach: A team player with the ability to foster collaboration and build strong partnerships both internally and externally.

- Adaptability: Ability to adapt to changing research landscapes and to lead teams through challenges in dynamic environments. Successful professional

experience in aresource limited setting a plus.

-Language: Very good English language skills required, French language skills desirable.