Epidemiologist

Job Posting Organization:
The World Health Organization (WHO) is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. Established on April 7, 1948, WHO's mission is to promote health, keep the world safe, and serve vulnerable populations. With over 7,000 employees and operations in more than 150 countries, WHO plays a crucial role in coordinating global health responses, setting health standards, and providing technical assistance to countries. The organization focuses on various health issues, including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems, and emergency responses, aiming to ensure that everyone can attain the highest possible level of health.

Job Overview:
The position of Epidemiologist within the WHO's Division of Health Promotion, Disease Prevention and Care (PPC) is pivotal in advancing health initiatives aimed at eradicating malaria and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs). The incumbent will work closely with the Department of Malaria & Neglected Tropical Diseases (MNT) and the Strategic Information for Impact (SII) unit. This role requires a strong emphasis on data-driven decision-making, where the incumbent will design and implement analytics that inform global and regional health strategies. The position involves collaboration with WHO regional and country offices, endemic countries, and various partners to enhance surveillance, monitoring, and evaluation systems for malaria and NTDs. The incumbent will contribute to the Annual World Malaria Report and develop guidance for the use of malaria and NTD data to support health policies and strategies. The role is integral to ensuring that health information systems are robust and capable of addressing emerging health threats and trends, particularly in the context of climate change.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Epidemiologist will be responsible for a comprehensive set of tasks, including: designing and implementing applied analytics to generate evidence for malaria and NTD strategies; contributing to the Annual World Malaria Report through data management and analysis; continuously reviewing and updating analytical methodologies; preparing analytical outputs for internal and external review; leading the formulation of specific sections related to analytics in the World Malaria Report; participating in the development of guidance for data use in health systems; analyzing intervention mixes for efficient resource targeting; providing technical assistance and capacity building; building relationships with partners in malaria and NTD analytics; providing inputs into donor reports; liaising with other teams within MNT and WHO; and assisting in all other activities covered by the SII team.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a first university degree in Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field. An advanced university degree (Master's level or higher) in Epidemiology or Biostatistics is desirable. Candidates must have at least 5 years of professional experience working in malaria-endemic countries, with experience in national malaria programs and familiarity with the policy-making environment in Sub-Saharan Africa. Proven experience in survey and routine data collection, management, and analysis related to malaria and NTDs is essential. Candidates should also have demonstrated exposure at the international level and experience with electronic surveillance platforms and data visualization applications.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a first university degree in Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Mathematics, Computer Science, or a related field. An advanced degree (Master's level or higher) in Epidemiology or Biostatistics is considered desirable, indicating a higher level of expertise and understanding of complex epidemiological concepts and methodologies.

Experience:
The role requires a minimum of 5 years of professional experience in malaria-endemic countries, with a strong background in working with national malaria programs. Candidates should have experience in data collection, management, and analysis, particularly in the context of malaria and NTDs. Familiarity with the working environment in Sub-Saharan Africa is crucial, as is experience with electronic surveillance platforms and data visualization tools. Desirable experience includes managing research projects and facilitating workshops.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Intermediate knowledge of French and another UN official language is desirable, as it enhances communication and collaboration in a multilingual environment.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 71,335 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 emphasizes diversity and inclusion in its hiring practices and encourages applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States. Candidates should be prepared for a rigorous selection process, which may include a written test or video assessment. The organization also requires proof of vaccination as a condition of employment.