Public Health Officer - Epidemiology

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. The organization operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 7,000 employees. WHO's work encompasses a wide range of health issues, including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems, and emergency response, with a focus on building capacity in member states to manage health emergencies effectively.

Job Overview:
The Public Health Officer - Epidemiology position is critical in supporting WHO's mission to manage health emergency risks and coordinate international health responses during outbreaks. The incumbent will be responsible for developing tools and indicators for monitoring public health programs, contributing to early warning systems for epidemic-prone diseases, and maintaining databases of reported outbreaks. The role requires a proactive approach to collecting and verifying outbreak information, conducting risk assessments, and preparing updates for decision-makers. Additionally, the officer will organize training for healthcare workers and participate in developing guidelines for epidemic control, ensuring that public health policies are effectively implemented.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Public Health Officer include:

• Assisting in the development of tools and indicators for monitoring surveillance and response programs for infectious diseases.
• Contributing to the establishment of an early warning and response system for epidemic-prone diseases.
• Collecting and verifying information on reported outbreaks and rumors related to infectious diseases.
• Maintaining an event management system database for reported outbreaks and public health events, documenting all verification and response steps.
• Conducting monitoring and evaluation of risk assessments based on incoming epidemic intelligence and providing periodic briefings to officials on health situations.
• Performing retrospective analyses of reported events to identify trends and distribution patterns.
• Preparing and disseminating disease outbreak news and assessments to key decision-makers.
• Organizing training courses for healthcare workers on field investigation and response to outbreaks.
• Participating in technical missions for field investigations as required. 1
• Developing rapid field assessment and investigation protocols for priority diseases. 1
• Disseminating technical documents and guidelines on disease prevention and control to national health authorities. 1
• Building partnerships with relevant bodies to facilitate the implementation of public health policies.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the Public Health Officer position include:

• Essential: A Bachelor's degree in epidemiology, medicine, or public health with a specialization in epidemiology.
• Desirable: An advanced university degree (master's level or higher) related to epidemiology or post-graduate training in epidemiology, such as the Field Epidemiology Training Programme.
• Proven knowledge and competency in public health aspects of infectious disease control and epidemiological principles.
• Strong report writing and data interpretation skills.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in epidemiology, medicine, or public health with a specialization in epidemiology. An advanced degree or post-graduate training in epidemiology is highly desirable, as it demonstrates a deeper understanding of the field and enhances the candidate's ability to perform effectively in the role.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of relevant work experience in epidemiology, with proven international exposure. This experience should include implementing public health programs, policies, and guidelines, as well as monitoring and evaluating diseases and public health issues. Relevant international experience in outbreak investigation and response for emerging and re-emerging diseases is also desirable.

Languages:
Essential: Expert knowledge of English is required for this position. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset, enhancing communication with diverse populations and stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive remuneration package, including an annual base salary starting at USD 71,335, subject to deductions for pension contributions and health insurance. A variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living at the duty station is also provided, currently amounting to USD 2057 per month. Additional benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The position is subject to WHO Staff Regulations and Rules, and candidates may be required to provide proof of vaccination as part of the hiring process. WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented Member States.