Research Officer

Job Posting Organization:
The job posting organization is the World Health Organization (WHO), which was established in 194

• WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. It operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. The organization focuses on various health issues, including the elimination of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) through initiatives like the Expanded Special Project for Elimination of Neglected Tropical Diseases (ESPEN).

Job Overview:
The Research Officer position is integral to the ESPEN program, which aims to support Member States in achieving Sustainable Development Goals (SDG) related to the elimination of neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). The officer will work under the direction of the ESPEN Team Leader and the ESPEN Laboratory Head, contributing to the development of laboratory protocols and providing technical support for operational research studies. The role requires a strong focus on generating strategic information and knowledge products, developing WHO technical products, and facilitating country support for NTD laboratory analytics. The officer will also be involved in capacity building through training sessions for national staff in laboratory analytics and epidemiological research related to NTDs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Research Officer include:

• Supporting coordination, partnership, strategic communication, and resource mobilization by developing laboratory protocols and tools for NTD diagnosis, and providing technical support for operational research studies.
• Generating strategic information and knowledge products by performing PCR entomological testing, documenting best practices, and contributing to scientific reports and publications.
• Developing WHO technical products and services by maintaining laboratory databases and mapping laboratory data.
• Facilitating country technical support by planning and conducting training sessions to enhance national capacity in laboratory analytics for NTDs.
• Performing other related duties as assigned by the ESPEN Team Lead.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Research Officer position include a first university degree in fields such as computer sciences, public health, parasitology, or medical entomology. Advanced certifications in relevant areas like molecular biology or laboratory sciences are desirable. Candidates should possess excellent knowledge of the epidemiology of onchocerciasis and lymphatic filariasis, as well as strong GIS and remote sensing skills. The ability to conduct needs assessments and coordinate training sessions is also essential.

Educational Background:
Candidates must have a first university degree in relevant fields such as computer sciences, information system engineering, geographical information systems (GIS), public health, parasitology, or medical entomology. Advanced certifications in operational and strategic management of microorganisms, molecular biology, parasitology, entomology, and laboratory sciences are considered desirable.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 2 years of national and international experience in applied molecular biology, research, and development of surveillance tools for onchocerciasis or other priority NTDs in Africa. Experience in GIS data transformation for mapping and spatial modeling of onchocerciasis foci is also essential. Desirable experience includes working with WHO and having a good publication record on onchocerciasis and other NTDs.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of French is essential for this position, while intermediate knowledge of English is desirable. The language requirements are interchangeable, allowing for flexibility in communication within the organization and with stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive remuneration package starting at USD 56,046 annually, with additional benefits such as a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living, 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization also emphasizes the importance of integrity and ethical standards in its workforce.