Entomologist

Job Posting Organization:
The Clinton Health Access Initiative, Inc. (CHAI) is a global health organization founded in 2002, dedicated to saving lives and reducing the burden of disease in low- and middle-income countries. CHAI operates in over 40 countries and focuses on creating and sustaining high-quality health systems by working with governments and the private sector. Initially established to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic, CHAI has since expanded its mission to include a wide range of health issues, including infectious diseases like COVID-19, malaria, tuberculosis, and hepatitis, as well as non-communicable diseases such as cancer and diabetes. The organization emphasizes sustainable impact and the importance of local leadership in health solutions, with a diverse team of professionals committed to its mission.

Job Overview:
The Entomologist will be embedded within the Entomology Support Unit (ESU) at the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC). This position is crucial for leading and facilitating entomological surveillance and vector control activities aimed at strengthening the overall entomological capacity in India. The Entomologist will generate essential entomological evidence to guide targeted vector control interventions and enhance integrated vector management (IVM) strategies at both national and sub-national levels. The role requires collaboration with various stakeholders, including state-level entomological teams, to ensure effective data collection and analysis, ultimately contributing to the control and elimination of vector-borne diseases (VBD).

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Vector Surveillance: Facilitate regular surveillance of vectors at national and sub-national levels using standardized methods. Conduct resistance testing and ensure proper species identification. Mentor state and district teams in reporting vector data and participate in monitoring the impact of vector control measures.
• Data Management and Reporting: Collect, compile, and analyze entomological data, producing timely reports for the VBD program. Maintain an entomological database and share analyzed data during review meetings. Provide risk assessments to policymakers.
• Capacity Building and Supervision: Develop training modules and supervise entomology technicians and field staff in vector surveillance techniques. Conduct on-the-job training and enforce quality assurance standards.
• Coordination, Collaboration, and Advocacy: Advocate for filling vacant positions and strengthening lab systems at national and state levels. Collaborate with stakeholders for integrated vector control activities and participate in outbreak investigations.
• Programmatic Support and Strategy Development: Assist in developing vector control policies and evaluate the impact of interventions on vector populations and disease incidence. Develop evidence-based vector control plans tailored to local conditions.

Required Qualifications:
A Bachelor’s degree in medical Entomology, Vector Biology, Public Health, Parasitology, or a related biological science field, or a Post-Graduate diploma or Master’s degree in Entomology, MSc Zoology, Public Health, or Epidemiology. A minimum of 5 years of field experience in vector surveillance or control, with expertise in species identification and insecticide resistance testing. In-depth knowledge of vector biology and disease transmission dynamics is essential, along with proficiency in microscopy and laboratory diagnostic tools. Familiarity with WHO testing protocols and data management skills are also required.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor’s degree in medical Entomology, Vector Biology, Public Health, Parasitology, or a related biological science field. Alternatively, a Post-Graduate diploma or Master’s degree in Entomology, MSc Zoology, Public Health, or Epidemiology is acceptable. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of vector biology and the methodologies used in vector surveillance and control.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 5 years of field experience in vector surveillance or control. Candidates should have experience in species identification of vectors and insecticide resistance testing, as well as familiarity with WHO entomological methods and integrated vector management principles. This level of experience is necessary to effectively lead and facilitate entomological activities and contribute to the overall goals of the VBD program.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Strong communication skills are essential for effective collaboration with various stakeholders and for reporting findings. Additional language skills may be beneficial but are not specified as mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The application deadline for this position is 8th September 202

• The role is full-time and involves working closely with national and state health ministries, as well as other stakeholders in the field of vector control. The position may require travel to various locations for fieldwork and collaboration with local teams.