Blood Testing Expert Consultant for Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) Support

Job Posting Organization:
UNICEF, the United Nations Children's Fund, is a leading organization dedicated to advocating for children's rights and ensuring their survival, development, and protection. Established in 1946, UNICEF operates in 190 countries and territories, employing over 12,000 staff members. The organization is funded entirely by voluntary contributions from individuals, businesses, foundations, and governments, and has been instrumental in providing vaccines and supporting child health, education, and protection initiatives worldwide.

Job Overview:
The Blood Testing Expert Consultant will play a crucial role in the Multiple Indicator Cluster Surveys (MICS) program, which is designed to collect data on key indicators related to the welfare of children and women. The consultant will be responsible for finalizing standard MICS questionnaire modules and protocols related to blood testing, collaborating with various UNICEF teams and partners to ensure the successful implementation of surveys. This position requires a deep understanding of survey methodologies, particularly in relation to blood sampling and environmental health biomarkers. The consultant will also support the development of tools and processes for blood testing, ensuring that they meet the high standards set by the MICS program. The role involves significant coordination and communication with national partners and UNICEF offices globally, as well as the ability to adapt to the evolving needs of the program.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's responsibilities will include:

• Finalizing and maintaining blood testing-related questionnaire modules and associated tools.
• Providing expert technical assistance for MICS surveys, including training and monitoring fieldwork.
• Supporting the design and implementation of field tests for blood testing protocols.
• Conducting background research and assessments to inform protocol design.
• Coordinating communication regarding blood testing methodologies with internal and external stakeholders.
• Participating in meetings and presenting findings to the global MICS team.
• Preparing reports and documentation on lessons learned and protocol innovations.
• Ensuring compliance with ethical standards and quality control measures throughout the survey process.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree in Social Sciences, Demography, Statistics, Epidemiology, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Laboratory Medicine, Toxicology, or a related technical field. They should have at least 8 years of experience in managing quantitative household surveys, particularly those involving blood sampling and biomarkers. Familiarity with the Global MICS Programme and the DHS Program is highly desirable. Candidates should also demonstrate expertise in statistical analyses and proficiency in data processing software, particularly SPSS. Strong communication and interpersonal skills are essential, along with the ability to work effectively in a multicultural environment.

Educational Background:
An advanced university degree in relevant fields such as Social Sciences, Demography, Statistics, Epidemiology, Biochemistry, Analytical Chemistry, Laboratory Medicine, or Toxicology is required. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of data collection and analysis in the context of household surveys and blood testing.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of 8 years of relevant experience, particularly in the coordination and management of quantitative household surveys. Candidates should have significant experience in implementing biomarkers and venous blood sampling, as well as logistics associated with these processes. Experience with large-scale studies involving blood sampling is also essential, and familiarity with the Global MICS Programme is highly desirable.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages such as French, Russian, Arabic, or Spanish is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's suitability for the role.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last from November 15, 2025, to November 14, 2026, and is primarily remote. The consultant will be required to travel for fieldwork monitoring and training, with travel costs covered by UNICEF. Candidates must complete their profiles in UNICEF's e-Recruitment system and provide a financial proposal detailing costs per deliverable. Selected candidates will undergo rigorous background checks and must adhere to UNICEF's core values and principles, including child safeguarding and zero tolerance for misconduct.