Entomologist

Job Posting Organization:
The Clinton Health Access Initiative, Inc. (CHAI) is a global health organization founded in 2002, primarily in response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Its mission is to save lives and reduce the burden of disease in low- and middle-income countries. CHAI collaborates with governments and the private sector to create and sustain high-quality health systems. Over the years, CHAI has expanded its focus beyond HIV to include infectious diseases such as COVID-19, malaria, tuberculosis, and hepatitis, as well as non-communicable diseases like cancer and diabetes. The organization operates in 40 countries and employs a diverse team dedicated to maximizing sustainable impact at scale, ensuring that solutions are led by governments and designed for national scalability. CHAI's work is deeply rooted in the countries it serves, with the majority of its staff based in program countries, reflecting its commitment to local engagement and capacity building.

Job Overview:
The Entomologist position is embedded within the Entomology Support Unit (ESU) at the National Center for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC). The primary role of the Entomologist is to lead and facilitate entomological surveillance and vector control activities aimed at strengthening the overall entomological capacity in India. This position is crucial for generating entomological evidence that informs vector control interventions and enhances integrated vector management (IVM) at both national and sub-national levels. The Entomologist will work closely with NCVBDC officials and state-level entomological teams to ensure effective data collection, analysis, and reporting, ultimately contributing to the control and elimination of vector-borne diseases (VBD).

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Vector Surveillance: Facilitate regular surveillance of vectors using standardized methods, conduct resistance testing, ensure species identification, and mentor state/district teams in data reporting. Participate in entomological monitoring to evaluate the impact of interventions on vector populations.
• Data Management and Reporting: Collect, compile, and analyze entomological data, produce timely reports for the VBD program, maintain an entomological database, and share analyzed data during review meetings. Provide risk assessments and advise policymakers on outbreak preparedness.
• Capacity Building and Supervision: Develop training modules, facilitate training for entomology technicians and field staff, enforce SOPs and quality assurance standards, and conduct on-the-job training sessions.
• Coordination, Collaboration and Advocacy: Advocate for filling vacant positions and strengthening lab systems, work with stakeholders for integrated vector control, and participate in outbreak investigations.
• Programmatic Support and Strategy Development: Assist in developing vector control policies and strategies, evaluate intervention impacts, and develop evidence-based vector control plans tailored to local conditions.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess 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 is required, with specific experience in species identification and insecticide resistance testing. Candidates should have in-depth knowledge of vector biology, disease transmission dynamics, and vector control, as well as proficiency in microscopy and laboratory diagnostic tools. Familiarity with WHO testing protocols and entomological surveillance indicators is essential, along with good data management and analysis skills. Familiarity with digital data collection tools is an asset, and candidates must demonstrate strong communication, supervision, and community engagement skills.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Bachelor’s degree in medical Entomology, Vector Biology, Public Health, Parasitology, or a related biological science field. Alternatively, candidates may hold a Post-Graduate diploma or Master’s degree in Entomology, MSc Zoology, Public Health, or Epidemiology. This educational foundation is critical 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 hands-on experience with 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 essential for effectively leading entomological surveillance and vector control activities.

Languages:
Fluency in English, both oral and written, is mandatory for this position. Strong communication skills are essential for effective collaboration and reporting. While English is the primary language required, knowledge of additional local languages may be beneficial for community engagement and collaboration with local stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is full-time and is based in India. The last date to apply for this position is 10th December 202

• The role involves working closely with national and state health ministries, and candidates should be prepared for fieldwork and collaboration with various stakeholders in the health sector.