Epidemiology Fellowship Programme

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Position Title: Epidemiology Fellowship Programme
Location: Cairo
Country: Egypt
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Epidemiology Fellowship Programme is a collaborative initiative between the WHO Health Emergencies Programme (WHE) and WHO UHC/Health Systems (UHS) at the WHO Regional Office for the Eastern Mediterranean. The program aims to build the capacity of young epidemiologists from low- and middle-income countries in the region, enhancing their skills and knowledge in outbreak management. The program is part of the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network Strategy, which focuses on improving public health responses to outbreaks. The organization operates in various countries within the Eastern Mediterranean Region, providing support and resources to strengthen health systems and emergency response capabilities.

Job Overview:
The Epidemiology Fellowship Programme is designed to provide young epidemiologists from low- and middle-income countries with practical experience in outbreak management and public health. The fellows will be assigned to WHO country offices in their home countries for a six-month period, where they will engage in WHO technical programs. The fellowship aims to enhance their understanding of national, regional, and global outbreak management through hands-on assignments and direct exposure to the work of WHO. The program is structured to provide a framework for educational experience, allowing fellows to work closely with experienced WHO staff and contribute to various health sector initiatives, including collaboration with Ministries of Health and National Public Health Institutes.

Duties and Responsibilities:
Under the supervision of a technical expert, fellows will be assigned specific projects based on their skills and interests. Responsibilities may include: conducting literature reviews and surveys, undertaking web research and data collection, organizing and analyzing data, participating in the development of tools and guidance documents, assisting in drafting and editing policy briefs, toolkits, guides, manuals, handouts, brochures, and reports, organizing workshops, meetings, conferences, and events, and participating in ongoing departmental projects. The role requires a proactive approach to learning and contributing to the objectives of the fellowship program.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a postgraduate degree in a relevant field related to public health, outbreak management, or epidemiology. Additionally, they should demonstrate core competencies as outlined by the WHO global Competencies model, which includes producing quality results, teamwork, respecting cultural differences, effective communication, and adaptability in changing environments. Familiarity with commonly used computer programs such as Word, Excel, and PowerPoint is essential, and knowledge of specialized software, particularly statistical programs like XLStat, is advantageous.

Educational Background:
A postgraduate degree is required, specifically in areas relevant to public health, epidemiology, or outbreak management. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of health systems and the methodologies used in epidemiological research and outbreak response.

Experience:
Candidates should have at least two years of relevant experience, which may include research, report drafting, and fieldwork in developing countries. Experience with data analysis and statistical packages is essential, as well as an interest in designing graphical displays and analyzing health information from an international perspective. Specific experience in outbreak management or health emergency management is also beneficial, as it aligns with the objectives of the fellowship.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory, encompassing reading, writing, and speaking skills. Knowledge of additional languages, particularly French or Arabic, is considered an asset and may enhance a candidate's suitability for the fellowship.

Additional Notes:
The fellowship program is competitive, and only a limited number of candidates will be accepted each year. Candidates must be under 35 years old to be eligible for the program. Successful candidates will receive a monthly fellowship stipend and official travel to their duty station. It is important to note that fellows are not eligible for appointment to any position in WHO for a period of three months following the end of the fellowship. The program encourages applications from women and nationals of underrepresented Member States, promoting workforce diversity. WHO maintains a smoke-free environment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse, sexual harassment, and other forms of abusive conduct.