International Consultant on Adoption of Breast Cancer Treatment Clinical Protocols

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund), which is a leading global organization that promotes the right of every woman, man, and child to enjoy a life of health and equal opportunity. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries, focusing on reproductive health, gender equality, and population issues. The organization aims to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. UNFPA works closely with governments and partners to strengthen health systems and improve access to essential health services, particularly in the context of sexual and reproductive health.

Job Overview:
The position involves providing individual consultancy services to support the adoption of breast cancer treatment clinical protocols and the development of compliance monitoring indicators in Turkmenistan. The consultant will work closely with UNFPA and national health authorities to enhance the quality of breast cancer care, which is critical given the high mortality rates associated with the disease in the country. The consultant will assess existing treatment protocols, identify gaps, and recommend updates to align with WHO standards. This role requires a comprehensive understanding of oncological care and the ability to train national specialists on updated protocols, ensuring that the healthcare system can deliver effective and standardized treatment for breast cancer patients. The consultant will also develop methodologies for monitoring compliance with these protocols, which is essential for maintaining high standards of care and improving health outcomes for women.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant's duties will include conducting a desk review of existing local treatment protocols for breast cancer, identifying gaps, and providing recommendations for improvement. The consultant will facilitate an online technical meeting to present findings to national oncologists and support the update of breast cancer protocols to align with WHO standards. Additionally, the consultant will conduct a three-day online training session for national specialists on the updated clinical protocols. The consultant will also develop a manual peer-review methodology for clinicians to assess adherence to protocols, including clinical compliance indicators for national monitoring and internal audits. A one-day online workshop will be conducted to train national partners on this methodology. Finally, the consultant will compile a final consultancy report summarizing the work done and the outcomes achieved.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced degree in medical sciences, specifically in Oncology and Mammology. The consultant must be a qualified oncologist with a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in breast cancer treatment. Knowledge of existing WHO recommendations and good practices, as well as evidence collected by research institutions and societies, is essential. The consultant should have experience in developing clinical protocols, guidelines, and methodologies. Fluency in Russian or English is mandatory, and familiarity with the Central Asian context is considered an asset.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess an advanced degree in medical sciences, particularly in fields related to oncology and mammology. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of breast cancer treatment and the development of clinical protocols that meet international standards.

Experience:
The consultant is expected to have at least seven years of relevant experience in the field of breast cancer treatment. This experience should include direct involvement in clinical practice, protocol development, and training of healthcare professionals in oncological care. Familiarity with WHO standards and practices in cancer treatment is also required.

Languages:
Fluency in either Russian or English is mandatory for this position. Knowledge of additional languages may be beneficial but is not required. The ability to communicate effectively in the primary language of the target audience is essential for training and collaboration purposes.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is expected to last for 18 working days, from August 10th to November 30th, 202

• The work will be conducted remotely, and no travel is anticipated. 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 promotes a work environment that values gender equality, diversity, and integrity, and encourages women and individuals from underrepresented groups to apply. Reasonable accommodations may be provided for applicants with disabilities to support their participation in the recruitment process.