Animal Health Officer (Antimicrobial Resistance)

Job Posting Organization:
The Animal Production and Health Division (NSA) is a part of the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) that focuses on promoting and facilitating the sustainable development of the livestock sector. Established to integrate scientific and technical expertise with policy advice, the division plays a crucial role in addressing various aspects of animal health, genetics, feed, and animal husbandry. It also engages in policy dialogue and provides technical assistance, particularly in emergency responses related to animal health. The FAO supports its member countries in building effective collaborative One Health strategies that address the health of people, animals, plants, and the environment. The One Health approach is a key priority for the FAO's Strategic Framework for 2022-2031, emphasizing the importance of integrated health strategies in agrifood systems transformation.

Job Overview:
The Animal Health Officer (Antimicrobial Resistance) position is situated within the One Health and Disease Control Branch (NSAH-CJW) of the Animal Production and Health Division at FAO headquarters in Rome, Italy. The role primarily focuses on supporting the implementation of the FAO AMR action plan and the RENO-FARM initiative, which aims to reduce the need for antimicrobials in sustainable agrifood systems. The officer will be responsible for coordinating One Health efforts and capacity development, ensuring that the integration of gender equality and women's empowerment is considered in FAO's work. The position requires the collection and analysis of relevant data and information to support various program projects and services, as well as participation in multidisciplinary teams to enhance the effectiveness of FAO's initiatives.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Animal Health Officer will have a diverse set of responsibilities, including collecting and analyzing technical, social, economic, environmental, and institutional data to support program delivery. The officer will also be involved in integrating gender considerations into FAO's work, undertaking analyses, providing technical input for plans and reports, and editing technical documents. Participation in the development of improved work methods and tools is expected, along with updating databases and web pages. The officer will collaborate in the development of training materials and organize workshops and seminars. Additionally, the officer will support the implementation of the RENOFARM initiative, coordinate the AMR Technical Working Group, develop technical publications on AMR and One Health, and support activities aimed at controlling substandard and falsified antimicrobials. The role also involves planning and participating in technical meetings and related events as required.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess an advanced university degree (Master's degree or equivalent) in veterinary epidemiology, microbiology, public health, biochemistry, or related fields relevant to AMR and Antimicrobial Use (AMU). A minimum of three years of relevant experience in AMR, AMU, veterinary drug quality control, and/or One Health is required. Candidates should demonstrate proficiency in English (level C) and intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) at level B. Competencies such as results focus, teamwork, communication, building effective relationships, and knowledge sharing are essential for this role.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes an advanced university degree, specifically a Master's degree or equivalent, in fields such as veterinary epidemiology, microbiology, public health, biochemistry, or other related subjects that are pertinent to the work of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and Antimicrobial Use (AMU). This educational foundation is critical for understanding the complexities of animal health and the challenges associated with antimicrobial resistance.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of relevant experience in areas related to antimicrobial resistance, antimicrobial use, veterinary drug quality control, and One Health initiatives. Experience in working in diverse locations or areas, particularly in field positions, is desirable. The extent and relevance of experience in collecting and analyzing technical information and data, as well as knowledge and experience in animal disease surveillance and infectious disease management, are also important for this role.

Languages:
A working knowledge of English at proficiency level C is mandatory, along with intermediate knowledge of another FAO official language (Arabic, Chinese, French, Russian, or Spanish) at level B. This bilingual capability is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the international context of FAO's work.

Additional Notes:
The position is based in Rome, Italy, at FAO headquarters. While the job ad does not specify a deadline for applications, it is important for candidates to be aware of the competitive nature of such positions and to apply promptly. The role is likely to be full-time, and candidates may be assessed against various competencies and technical skills relevant to the position. The FAO emphasizes the importance of gender equality and women's empowerment in its work, which may influence the selection process.