DNA Research and Validation Manager, The Hague, E5

Organization profile

Every year, millions of people around the world go missing as a result of conflict, human rights abuses, disasters, organized crime, irregular migration, and other causes. This is a complex global challenge that can be tackled effectively through cross-cutting programs that address a variety of difficult, interconnected issues.

The International Commission on Missing Persons (ICMP) is the only international organization tasked exclusively to work on the issue of missing persons. It works with governments and other stakeholders, including families of the missing, to help them develop and maintain successful missing persons processes. To learn more about ICMP click here.

Position Background

Under the direction of the Director of Science and Technology and the Head of DNA Laboratories, the DNA Research and Validation Manager main duties and responsibilities will include the following:

• Lead innovation, research, and development activities in the DNA laboratory
• Direct the validations of technical methods, instruments, and software related to DNA laboratory processes
• Coordinate with laboratory management and staff the implementation of newly validated lab processes, to include the development of SOPs and associated forms, and the development and delivery of training
• Oversee Research and Validation section staff in MPS processing in pre-accreditation DNA casework
• Assist the QMS by participating in quality control testing of instruments and reagents and responding to the needs of both internal and external audits
• Maintain laboratory or QMS related competencies and skills to conduct DNA casework according to standard operating procedures
• Oversee the daily operation of research and validation activities by ensuring the relevant laboratory spaces and equipment are maintained and relevant chemical and lab supplies inventories are monitored
• Promote the dissemination of research and validation developments both internally and externally through presentations, publications and the delivery of training
• Conduct performance evaluations of staff within the Research and Validation section
• Promote continuing education for members of the research and validation team to equip them with tools and understanding relevant to their projects
• Engage with other ICMP departments and Directors as needed to assist with such things as planning, grant proposal development and other institutional coordination
• Other related duties as assigned.

Requirements

• Master’s degree or higher in Biological Science, Genetics or Forensics plus 5 years of relevant full-time professional experience. Alternatively, a Bachelor’s Degree in Biology, Biochemistry, Chemistry or similar field of science and 7-9 years’ experience
• Attention to detail

• Effective organizational skills

• Excellent communication and presentation skills

• A history of experience with R&D, specifically with skeletal remains and STR technologies

• Exceptional attitude and capability regarding professionalism, teamwork, flexibility, and working under pressure.

• Experience with MPS an asset.

Mandatory Requirements

• Excellent written and spoken English language skills at a level consistent with high profile publications and professional speaking activities
• Proficiency in Microsoft applications, including Word, Excel, Access and PowerPoint

• Proven ability to interact positively with colleagues regardless of culture, nationality or gender

• Ability to travel at short notice and to work flexible hours including weekends and evenings

• Commitment to the underlying objective of helping the authorities and families of the missing to account for missing persons in an impartial and transparent manner.

Benefits

This is a full-time professional position E5 located in The Hague, the Netherlands including diplomatic status and generous paid leave and extensive health insurance benefits for the incumbent and any eligible dependent.

Review of applications will begin on 21 October 2020; however, the position will remain open until filled.

ICMP is committed to maintaining an environment of mutual respect, where equal employment opportunities are available to all applicants. ICMP believes that diversity and inclusion among our staff are critical to our success as a global organization, and we seek to recruit, develop and retain the most talented individuals from a thoroughly diverse range of candidates. ICMP is proud to be part of the International Gender Champions network.