EpiC Kyrgyz Republic Surveillance Advisor

Job Posting Organization:
FHI 360 is a non-profit human development organization dedicated to improving lives in lasting ways by advancing integrated, locally driven solutions. Established with a mission to enhance the quality of life through innovative and sustainable approaches, FHI 360 operates in multiple countries around the world, focusing on various sectors including health, education, and economic development. The organization employs a diverse workforce and collaborates with local partners to implement programs that address pressing global challenges. FHI 360 is committed to fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect, ensuring that all individuals have equal opportunities regardless of their background.

Job Overview:
The EpiC Kyrgyz Republic Surveillance Advisor will play a pivotal role in providing strategic and technical leadership for the design, implementation, and continuous improvement of integrated disease surveillance systems in the Kyrgyz Republic. This position is crucial for enhancing outbreak detection, preparedness, and response systems, which are essential for public health safety. The Advisor will work closely with government counterparts, technical institutions, and development partners to strengthen various surveillance systems, including event-based, indicator-based, and community-based approaches. The role requires advanced technical expertise in epidemiology and public health, with a focus on improving health security" style="border-bottom: 1px dotted #007bff !important;">security and response capabilities in the region. The Advisor will also be responsible for promoting evidence-based decision-making and public health actions through effective use of surveillance information.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Advisor will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including:

• Strengthening surveillance systems by leading technical activities aimed at enhancing integrated disease surveillance.
• Supporting the assessment and improvement of surveillance policies, procedures, and reporting mechanisms.
• Facilitating the development and revision of surveillance guidelines and standard operating procedures.
• Implementing active surveillance approaches for priority diseases and public health threats.
• Conducting assessments of surveillance system performance and recommending evidence-based improvements.
• Promoting collaboration between human, animal, wildlife, and environmental health sectors through One Health coordination.
• Supporting the development of Joint Risk Assessment mechanisms and integrating findings into preparedness planning.
• Strengthening Rapid Response Teams and supporting outbreak investigation procedures.
• Leading simulation exercises to assess emergency preparedness systems. 1
• Developing technical briefs, reports, and knowledge products to document and disseminate best practices and lessons learned.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Master's degree or higher in Epidemiology, Public Health, Health Security, Medicine, Veterinary Medicine, Public Health Informatics, Biostatistics, or a related field. Additionally, a minimum of seven years of progressively responsible experience in epidemiology, disease surveillance, outbreak preparedness, or health security programs is required. Candidates should demonstrate experience in supporting various surveillance systems, working with government institutions, and developing technical guidance and training materials. Strong facilitation skills for stakeholder coordination and multisectoral collaboration are essential, along with experience in emergency response activities and using surveillance information for public health decision-making.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a Master's degree or higher in relevant fields such as Epidemiology, Public Health, Health Security, or related disciplines. This advanced education is crucial for understanding the complexities of disease surveillance and public health management, as well as for developing effective strategies to address health threats.

Experience:
The position requires a minimum of seven years of relevant experience in the fields of epidemiology, disease surveillance, and public health emergency management. Candidates should have a proven track record of progressively responsible roles that demonstrate their ability to lead and implement public health initiatives effectively. Experience in donor-funded international development programs is also highly valued, as is familiarity with the operational dynamics of health systems in the Kyrgyz Republic and surrounding regions.

Languages:
Fluency in English and Russian is mandatory for this position, as these languages are essential for effective communication with stakeholders and partners. Knowledge of the Kyrgyz language is considered an advantage, as it may facilitate better engagement with local communities and government entities.

Additional Notes:
This position is based in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, and may require travel within the country, estimated at 30%. The expected hiring salary range for this role is indexed to USD 21,000 - 30,000 for annual basic salary, which will be determined based on the candidate's relevant experience and education. FHI 360 is committed to equal opportunity employment and safeguarding practices, ensuring a safe and respectful work environment for all employees. The organization offers a competitive benefits package and supports professional development, promoting a healthy work/life balance.