Senior Program Officer, Modified Mosquito Products and Launch

Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation • Seattle, WA

3d

About The Position

As Senior Program Officer for Malaria Genetically-Based Vector Control Product Introduction, Launch, and Manufacture, you will lead the development and operationalization of modified mosquito production and launch infrastructure, as part of our broader malaria eradication strategy. You will be responsible for designing and managing a portfolio of high-impact investments related to: The development of gene drive-ready mosquito mass-rearing facilities, Regulatory and biosafety pathway advancement, Monitoring and evaluation of early deployments, Developing cost-effectiveness projections based on trial data, Stakeholder engagement across countries, regions, and communities, Partnership development across public, private, and multilateral sectors, and Market and ecosystem readiness for modified mosquito vector control tools. This role requires deep expertise in vector control, transgenic mosquitoes and biological control methods), and proven experience in managing complex, cross-sectoral programs in malaria-endemic regions. This work will require a broad range of internal and external collaborations, and working with the Malaria PST, you will interface with internal foundation functional teams such as the Integrated Development Team managing Regulatory investments, the Policy, Advocacy and Communications team, as well as country programs and foundation country offices.

Requirements

• MSc or above, or equivalent experience in Entomology, Molecular Biology, Public Health, Vector Biology, Biological control of Insects or related discipline.
• Minimum 10 years of progressive responsibility in global health, vector control, or public health entomology programs.
• At least 5 years managing complex programmatic or scientific initiatives related to insect rearing/manufacturing, vector-borne disease control, or biotech product introduction and/or logistics, multisectoral programs in LMICs.
• Proven ability to lead cross-functional teams and collaborate effectively in matrixed environments.
• Ability to navigate and resolve ambiguity with strategic clarity and creativity.
• Excellent communication, relationship-building, and stakeholder engagement skills.
• Strong analytical and synthesis skills with experience in evidence-based decision-making.
• Ability to travel up to 30% domestically and internationally

Nice To Haves

• Deep expertise in genetic engineering technology an advantage.

Responsibilities

• Drive the development and execution of the strategy for modified mosquito production and deployment infrastructure, ensuring alignment with the Foundation’s malaria eradication goals.
• Contribute to the refinement of the gene drive roadmap, in partnership with internal and external experts, to enable timely and safe field release and integration into public health programs.
• Oversee the planning, design, and potential co-investment in insectary infrastructure and other mosquito production and launch systems, with attention to scalability, cost-effectiveness, and sustainability.
• Facilitate cross-learning from other biologically-based control programs (e.g., Wolbachia, SIT).
• Lead internal matrix teams and represent the malaria PST in relevant foundation-wide working groups and leadership forums.
• Guide investments and collaboration related to national and international regulatory frameworks for genetically modified organisms (GMOs), including compliance with the Cartagena Protocol.
• Work with matrix partners partnering with biosafety and ethical review bodies to ensure responsible and transparent deployment of gene drive technologies.
• Act as a thought leader and advocate for innovative vector control at scientific meetings, regulatory forums, and with donor and partner organizations.
• Communicate complex technical and strategic content to diverse audiences, including internal foundation leadership and external stakeholders.

Benefits

• We provide an exceptional benefits package to employees and their families which include comprehensive medical, dental, and vision coverage with no premiums, generous paid time off, paid family leave, foundation-paid retirement contribution, regional holidays, and opportunities to engage in several employee communities.

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Number of Employees: 1,001-5,000 employees