FAO Malawi Hiring 2026: National AMR Specialist Job in Lilongwe – Great oppoturnity. Apply Before 28 April

If you are a skilled laboratory or public health professional looking to make a meaningful impact in global health systems, this new opportunity with the Food and Agriculture Organization ( FAO) of the United Nations could be your next career move. The organization is currently hiring a National Laboratory and Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) Specialist based in Lilongwe, offering a 12-month contract with the possibility of extension.

This role sits at the intersection of veterinary science, public health, and global disease prevention, making it ideal for professionals passionate about strengthening health systems and combating antimicrobial resistance.

About FAO and Its Mission

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations is a specialized agency of the United Nations with 194 Member Nations, working in over 130 countries worldwide. Its mission is aligned with the 2030 Agenda, aiming to transform agrifood systems to be more efficient, inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.

In Malawi, FAO has been active since 1986, supporting national development priorities through its Country Programming Framework (CPF). The CPF focuses on agriculture transformation, sustainable natural resource management, and improved resilience and emergency preparedness. This role directly contributes to strengthening Malawi’s preparedness and response to health threats.

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About the Project: Strengthening Pandemic Preparedness

The selected candidate will work under a major initiative titled “Strengthening Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response through the One Health Approach in Malawi (SP3ROHAM).” This project is implemented in collaboration with key global partners, including the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the World Bank.

The initiative focuses on three critical areas: surveillance and early warning systems, laboratory system strengthening, and capacity development for health professionals. The goal is to enhance Malawi’s ability to detect, prevent, and respond to pandemics using a One Health approach, which integrates human, animal, and environmental health systems.

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Key Responsibilities of the Role

As a National Laboratory and AMR Specialist, you will take on both technical leadership and coordination responsibilities. Your work will focus on strengthening laboratory systems and antimicrobial resistance strategies across sectors.

Core duties include planning and supervising technical missions such as training, equipment installation, and troubleshooting. You will coordinate with national stakeholders and FAO teams to ensure timely implementation of laboratory and AMR activities. The role also involves leading efforts in laboratory quality assurance, biosafety, and biosecurity, including conducting needs assessments and supporting national roadmaps.

You will contribute to the development of national laboratory standards, support the implementation of quality management systems, and facilitate training for laboratory personnel on diagnostic testing. Additionally, you will help develop standard operating procedures, strengthen laboratory data management systems, and support the deployment of laboratory information systems.

The position also includes responsibilities related to antimicrobial resistance, such as supporting surveillance systems, contributing to national action plans, and promoting responsible antimicrobial use through policy and awareness initiatives.

Technical Focus Areas

This role requires expertise in laboratory systems strengthening, antimicrobial resistance surveillance, biosafety and biosecurity frameworks, and quality assurance processes. You will also work within the One Health framework, promoting collaboration across sectors and institutions.

The position involves contributing to laboratory networking efforts at national and regional levels, ensuring improved communication, coordination, and data sharing among stakeholders.

Minimum Requirements

Candidates must have an advanced university degree in a relevant field such as veterinary medicine, public health, biomedical sciences, or laboratory sciences. At least five years of relevant experience in antimicrobial resistance or laboratory systems is required, along with a strong working knowledge of English. Applicants must also be nationals of Malawi.

Core Competencies

FAO seeks candidates who demonstrate strong results orientation, effective teamwork, and clear communication skills. The ability to build relationships across sectors and a commitment to continuous learning and knowledge sharing are also essential for success in this role.

Technical Skills and Experience

Ideal candidates will have demonstrated experience in coordinating laboratory and antimicrobial resistance projects, including implementing quality assurance and biosafety programs. Experience with diagnostic tools, laboratory assessments, and standard operating procedures is highly valued.

Candidates should also have knowledge of laboratory data systems, experience working with multiple stakeholders, and a solid understanding of antimicrobial resistance policies and strategies.

Why This Role Matters

Antimicrobial resistance is one of the most significant global health challenges today. This role provides an opportunity to contribute directly to strengthening national systems that detect and respond to disease threats.

By working with FAO and its partners, you will support the development of resilient health systems in Malawi and contribute to global health security efforts.

FAO’s Commitment to Diversity and Integrity

FAO encourages applications from women, individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, and persons with disabilities. The organization upholds high standards of integrity and professional conduct and maintains a zero-tolerance policy for discrimination, harassment, and abuse.

Application Details

The position is based in Lilongwe, Malawi, with a duration of 12 months and the possibility of extension. The application deadline is 28 April 2026.

Applicants are required to complete an online profile and submit a motivation letter. Only applications submitted through the official FAO recruitment system will be considered.

Final Thoughts

This opportunity offers a unique platform to work at the forefront of global health and laboratory system strengthening. Professionals with expertise in antimicrobial resistance and laboratory sciences will find this role both challenging and impactful.

By joining FAO, you will play a key role in advancing health security, strengthening laboratory systems, and contributing to a safer and more resilient future for Malawi and beyond.