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 primary objective is to ensure that all people can attain the highest possible level of health, and it works to build the capacity of Member States to manage health emergency risks effectively.

Job Overview:
The Public Health Officer (Epidemiology) position is crucial for the World Health Organization's Health Emergencies Programme (WHE). The incumbent will be responsible for developing tools and indicators for monitoring the implementation of surveillance and response programs for infectious diseases. This role involves contributing to the establishment of an early warning and response system for epidemic-prone diseases, collecting and verifying information on outbreaks, and maintaining a database of reported public health events. The officer will also conduct risk assessments, prepare disease outbreak news, and organize training for healthcare workers. The position requires collaboration with national health authorities and other stakeholders to facilitate the implementation of public health policies and programs.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will perform a variety of duties including: assisting in the development of tools for monitoring infectious disease programs; contributing to early warning systems for epidemics; collecting and verifying outbreak information; maintaining an event management system database; conducting risk assessments and evaluations; preparing and disseminating outbreak news; organizing training courses for healthcare workers; participating in the development of assessment protocols; and building partnerships with relevant agencies to implement public health policies.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a Bachelor's degree in epidemiology, medicine, or public health with a specialization in epidemiology. An advanced university degree (master's level or higher) related to epidemiology or post-graduate training in epidemiology is desirable. Candidates should demonstrate knowledge and competency in public health aspects of infectious disease control, monitoring, and evaluation of epidemiology principles.

Educational Background:
Essential educational qualifications include a Bachelor's degree in epidemiology, medicine, or public health with a specialization in epidemiology. A master's degree or higher in a related field is desirable, particularly if it includes training in field epidemiology.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least five years of relevant work experience in epidemiology, including international exposure. Experience in implementing programs, policies, and guidelines, as well as monitoring and evaluating public health issues, is essential. Desirable experience includes outbreak investigation and response for emerging and re-emerging diseases.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English is essential for this position. Additional language skills may be considered an asset but are not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive salary starting at USD 71,335 annually, with additional benefits including a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living, 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependents, and an education grant for children. 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 ethical standards and integrity in its workforce.