WHO Consultant - Technical Committees Standards Development Knowledge and Project Management

Job Posting Organization:
AVAREF, which stands for AdVancing ClinicAl TRials Excellence in AFrica, is a network established 20 years ago by the World Health Organization (WHO). Its primary mission is to build the capacity of National Regulatory Authorities (NRAs) and National Ethics Committees (NECs) across Africa. The organization has a strong focus on enhancing vaccine research and development through excellence in clinical trials. The AVAREF Secretariat is situated within the Vaccine Research and Innovation Unit (VRIU) of the Vaccine Preventable Diseases (VPD) Programme. Over the past two decades, AVAREF has achieved significant milestones in the clinical trial ecosystem, including facilitating the registration of emergency use vaccines for diseases such as Ebola and COVID-1

• The organization is recognized globally for its regulatory harmonization efforts and has been instrumental in training individuals within NRAs to improve their capabilities. Currently, AVAREF is implementing its 2024–26 Strategic Operational and Action Plan, which focuses on partnerships, expert support, and a life cycle approach to vaccine development. The organization is adapting to a changing landscape that includes increased competition and funding challenges, necessitating a transformation from a Secretariat to a programmatic approach that emphasizes the development of norms and standards for clinical trials.

Job Overview:
The Consultant will play a crucial role in supporting the AVAREF Programme by working closely with the Coordinator and the Secretariat staff. The primary functions of this position include providing expert technical support to various working groups, managing data collection and analysis, and facilitating communication and coordination among stakeholders. The Consultant will be responsible for advancing critical work products that have been stalled due to previous consultant contracts expiring. This includes the development of guidelines for clinical trials, particularly those involving Challenge Human Infection Model (CHIM) studies and snakebite antivenoms. The Consultant will also support the organization of workshops and training sessions, ensuring that AVAREF's activities are well-coordinated and effectively communicated. The position requires a proactive approach to problem-solving and the ability to work under tight deadlines in a multicultural environment. The Consultant will also be expected to maintain AVAREF's online presence and contribute to the development of communication strategies.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Consultant's duties and responsibilities include:

• Supporting AVAREF Expert Working Groups for Challenge Human Infection Model Studies and Snakebite Antivenoms, including the consolidation and updating of draft guidelines for clinical trials.
• Assisting in the operations of the AVAREF Programme by designing and analyzing data from ecosystem surveys, establishing links with WHO Country Offices, and tracking performance indicators.
• Organizing workshops and training sessions, providing project management support for the implementation of the annual workplan.
• Establishing new networks for research and development, vaccine manufacturers, and clinical trial sites, leveraging existing reliance networks.
• Supporting AVAREF's communications and media efforts by maintaining the website and social media presence, and contributing to the development of an internal communications strategy. Expected outputs include effective management of working groups, finalization of clinical trial guidelines, collection and analysis of ecosystem data, and establishment of new networks for collaboration.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a university degree in a health-related field, biomedical sciences, pharmacy, pharmaceutical science, or medicine. A postgraduate degree in a relevant field such as project management or policy development is desirable. Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of combined experience in a regulatory agency, clinical research, or a laboratory environment. Experience in policy development within a science-based organization is essential, along with proven skills in results communication and the ability to work collaboratively with a diverse range of stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a university degree in a health-related field, biomedical sciences, pharmacy, pharmaceutical science, or medicine. A postgraduate degree in a relevant field is preferred, particularly for those with experience in project management or policy development. Educational qualifications must be from institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of 5 years of relevant experience, which may include work in regulatory agencies, clinical research, or research institutions. Experience in policy development and collaboration with various stakeholders is crucial. Familiarity with the African context or low-to-middle income countries, as well as advanced economies, is highly valued.

Languages:
Essential languages for this position include excellent knowledge of English and French. Intermediate knowledge of another UN official language is desirable, which would enhance communication capabilities within the organization and with international stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
The position is offsite, allowing for remote work from the consultant's home country. The contract duration is initially set for 6 months, with the possibility of extension based on performance and organizational needs. The remuneration for this position falls within Band level B, with a monthly salary ranging from USD 7,000 to 8,48

• Candidates should be aware that only those under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test may be part of the screening process. WHO emphasizes workforce diversity and encourages applications from women and nationals of underrepresented Member States. The organization maintains a smoke-free environment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse.