Individual consultancy services (international) on adoption of cervical and breast cancer treatment clinical protocols and development of compliance monitoring indicators

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund), which is a leading global organization that aims to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, focusing on reproductive health, gender equality, and population issues. The organization works to improve the health and well-being of women and girls, particularly in developing countries, and is committed to achieving the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). UNFPA's mission is to support countries in using population data for policy-making and to promote universal access to sexual and reproductive health services. The organization employs thousands of staff worldwide, including experts in various fields related to health, gender, and development, and collaborates with governments, NGOs, and other stakeholders to implement its programs effectively.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position is aimed at addressing the urgent need for updated clinical protocols for the treatment of cervical and breast cancers in Turkmenistan. The consultant will work closely with UNFPA and national health authorities to assess existing treatment protocols, develop new clinical guidelines, and create compliance monitoring indicators. The role is critical in enhancing the capacity of oncologists in Turkmenistan to provide high-quality care that aligns with WHO recommendations and current medical advancements. The consultant will be responsible for conducting a thorough desk review of existing protocols, facilitating training sessions for national specialists, and developing a manual peer-review methodology to ensure adherence to the updated protocols. This position not only requires expertise in oncology but also a commitment to improving women's health outcomes in the region.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake a series of specific tasks over a 20-day consultancy period. The duties include:

• Conducting a desk review of existing cervical and breast cancer treatment protocols and identifying gaps in current practices.
• Organizing and leading an online technical meeting with national oncologists to discuss treatment opportunities and methodologies.
• Updating clinical protocols to align with WHO standards and international best practices.
• Delivering a 3-day training program for national specialists on the updated clinical protocols.
• Developing a Manual Peer-Review Methodology for clinicians to evaluate adherence to the new protocols.
• Defining Clinical Compliance Indicators for national monitoring and internal audits.
• Creating standardized reporting templates for hospital administrators and Ministry of Health specialists.
• Conducting a 2-day workshop to refine and finalize the methodology with national specialists.
• Compiling a final report that includes an executive summary and an implementation roadmap. The consultant will also be expected to provide weekly updates on progress and challenges encountered during the consultancy.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced degree in medical sciences, specifically in fields such as Oncology, Gynaecology, or Mammology. The consultant must be a qualified oncologist with a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in the field. Additionally, the candidate should possess a strong understanding of existing WHO recommendations and good practices, as well as evidence-based research from reputable institutions. Experience in developing clinical protocols, manuals, methodologies, and related documentation is essential. The consultant should also demonstrate strong analytical and communication skills, with the ability to work collaboratively with national health authorities and stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced degree in medical sciences, particularly in areas related to oncology, gynecology, or mammology. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of cancer treatment and the development of clinical protocols that meet international standards. The degree should be complemented by relevant certifications and training in oncology or related fields, ensuring that the consultant is well-equipped to provide expert guidance in the development of treatment protocols.

Experience:
The consultant is expected to have a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience in oncology, with a proven track record of working on similar projects related to cancer treatment and protocol development. Experience in the Central Asian context is considered an asset, as it provides valuable insights into the local healthcare landscape and challenges. The consultant should also have experience in training healthcare professionals and developing educational materials, as this will be a key component of the consultancy.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position, as all deliverables and communications will be conducted in English. Knowledge of Russian is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with local stakeholders and enhance the consultant's effectiveness in the role. Familiarity with the local language or dialects may also be beneficial, although not explicitly required.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 20 working days, from April 18th to July 31st, 2026, with the possibility of adjustments based on the availability of the consultant and national partners. The consultant will be required to travel to Turkmenistan for a period of 6 days to meet with UNFPA staff and deliver specified tasks. All travel logistics, including visa arrangements and accommodation, will be managed by the UNFPA country office, and travel costs will be covered according to UNFPA’s Duty Travel Policy. The consultancy fee will be calculated based on the P-4 level of the UN Salary Scale for Professional and higher categories effective January 1, 2026, and will be paid in a lump sum upon successful completion of deliverables. UNFPA is committed to promoting gender equality and diversity within its workforce and encourages applications from women and individuals from underrepresented groups.