National Laboratory and QMS Specialist

About the role

IQLS, an international consulting organization that strengthens laboratory systems, quality management, biosafety, biosecurity and accreditation, is looking for a National Laboratory and Quality Management System (QMS) Specialist based in Bamako, Mali. The consultant supports laboratory strengthening activities carried out in partnership with CDC Mali and the National Institute of Public Health (INSP), working mainly with INSP, the Sikasso regional hospital laboratory and the five Koulikoro district laboratories. The contract is part-time (15 days per month) for 10 months, starting on 1 December 2026, with regular field missions to Koulikoro and Sikasso.

Key responsibilities

• Help laboratory teams assess QMS gaps and develop and implement improvement and corrective action plans, and guide quality policies, procedures, SOPs, forms and records
• Support quality indicators, nonconformity management, root-cause analysis, internal audits, management reviews and accreditation preparation, and contribute to harmonized master QMS documents
• Mentor laboratory managers, quality officers and technical teams, identify competency gaps and organise training sessions such as QMS, molecular diagnosis, specimen collection, packaging and transport
• Provide technical guidance on sample management, testing workflows, internal and external quality control, equipment management, calibration and traceability, and documentation and data management
• Support biosafety and biosecurity, risk assessment, incident reporting, emergency preparedness and PPE use, and training on standards such as ISO 15190, ISO 35001 and the WHO Laboratory Biosafety Manual
• Coordinate with laboratory teams, national counterparts and IQLS experts, monitor action plans and deliverables, and keep mentoring records and activity reports
• Plan and organise travel and field missions, including logistics, accommodation and per diems, and liaise with INSP and site focal persons; support procurement, delivery and reception of reagents and kits

Required profile

• Advanced degree in laboratory sciences, biomedical sciences, public health or a related discipline, or equivalent experience
• Substantial experience in clinical, public health or reference laboratories and practical QMS implementation
• Knowledge of ISO 15189 and laboratory quality assurance; familiarity with ISO 17043 or ISO 9001 is an asset
• Experience with the SLMTA/SLIPTA approach; SLIPTA auditor or SLMTA trainer certification is an asset
• Experience in molecular diagnostics (e.g. PCR) and specimen referral and transport is an asset
• Proven experience in laboratory mentoring, training and workshop facilitation, and in organising field missions
• Fluency in French and good working knowledge of English; knowledge of the Malian health and laboratory system is an asset
• Willingness and ability to travel regularly within Mali, including to Koulikoro and Sikasso