Expert in Training and Lab Analysis coordinator

Background:

Trout aquaculture has been practiced in Lebanon since early 20^th century (El-Zein, 1997). The first trout farm was established on 1965 in Hermel “farms of Oumairyeh”. The aquaculture sector was developed during these 20 years to reach now 367 farms mainly distributed in Bekaa area along Assi River with some smaller ones along the northern coast (Aquaculture census, 2020).

Currently, more than 90% of aquaculture production in Lebanon is Rainbow trout. The total production of Rainbow trout was 4143 tonnes in 2019 while 3672 tonnes of trout are produces in Baalbeck Hermel area (represent 88.8%). After 2019, due the national crisis and specially the economic crisis, the demand of trout fish is increasing because the price of meat and chicken is decreasing around 250% that why the consumer tend to buy this type of meat. While the aquaculture is the second economic activity after crop production in Hermel region, no public institution are provided services to govern, monitor and develop this sector.

Based on the above, the objective of this project is to provide the services that should be provided by the public institution to develop the sector of trout production and to implement the related good practices, biosecurity and hygiene standards along the whole value chain of the trout production.

Purpose:

Lebanese aquaculture sector is increased in term of production between 2011 and 2019. This positive trend is further noticed by the increase number of fish farms. The aquaculture sector suffers from several problems that hinder its development:

1- Absence of environmental monitoring system, rules and standards special for fish influence;

2- Absence of veterinary fish health monitoring;

3- Absence of extension services and vocational training;

4- Lack of good practices farming all along the value chain from hatchery practices till grow out, harvesting and processing.

In order to resolve these problems, a coordination will be held between USPEaK as a private organization (USPEaK) and the Lebanese University as a public institution to support the trout production in Hermel area. The specific objectives of the project will be training and building the capacity of farmers and laboring in a farm on good farming practices.

Responsibilities:

• Develop and implement training programs and materials for laboratory personnel on relevant techniques, methodologies, and protocols.
• Conduct training sessions, workshops, and hands-on practical exercises to enhance the skills and knowledge of laboratory staff.
• Assess the training needs of laboratory personnel and develop customized training plans accordingly.
• Monitor and evaluate the performance of trainees, providing feedback and guidance for improvement.
• Develop and implement quality control measures for laboratory analyses, ensuring adherence to standard operating procedures (SOPs), accuracy, and precision.
• Establish and maintain a system for monitoring and documenting laboratory activities, including sample collection, storage, analysis, and reporting.
• Conduct regular inspections and audits of laboratory facilities, equipment, and processes to ensure compliance with established protocols and quality standards.
• Provide technical support and guidance to laboratory staff, assisting in troubleshooting issues related to equipment, methodologies, or data interpretation.
• Collaborate with relevant stakeholders, such as project managers, scientists, and external partners, to ensure effective coordination and implementation of laboratory activities.
• Contribute to the development and improvement of laboratory procedures, guidelines, and protocols.

Qualifications and Skills:

• Advanced degree (Ph.D. is prefered) in a relevant field (e.g., Biochemistry, agricultural, environmental science, or a related discipline).
• Extensive experience (8 years) in laboratory analysis, including hands-on expertise in various techniques and methodologies.
• Proven experience (6 years) in developing and delivering training programs for laboratory personnel.
• Strong knowledge of quality control and quality assurance principles in laboratory settings.
• Familiarity with laboratory management systems, data management, and laboratory information management systems (LIMS).
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and decision-making skills.
• Effective communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with a diverse range of stakeholders.
• Detail-oriented with a strong focus on accuracy, precision, and compliance with protocols.
• Proficiency in relevant software applications and data analysis tools.
• Ability to work independently, manage multiple priorities, and meet deadlines.