Epidemiologist

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Epidemiologist
Location: Rio de Janeiro
Country: Brazil
Deadline Date: Not specified

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Pan American Health Organization (PAHO) is a specialized international health agency established in 1902, dedicated to improving health and living standards in the Americas. PAHO serves as the Regional Office for the Americas of the World Health Organization (WHO) and operates in 35 countries and territories across the region. The organization focuses on public health issues, providing technical cooperation, and promoting health initiatives to reduce the burden of diseases. PAHO's mission includes enhancing the capacity of countries to respond to health challenges, ensuring equitable access to health services, and fostering partnerships to improve health outcomes.

Job Overview:
The position of Epidemiologist at PAHO involves supporting the technical cooperation of the Pan American Foot-and-Mouth Disease/Veterinary Public Health Center (PANAFTOSA/VPH). The incumbent will work under the supervision of the Center Director and the Advisor for Veterinary Epidemiology and Information Systems. The primary functions include defining and implementing methodological procedures for epidemiological tools, conducting analyses of epidemiological data, providing training on these tools, and contributing to the quality control of diagnostic laboratory processes. The role also entails participating in scientific conferences and promoting inter-programmatic coordination for the development and implementation of epidemiological tools across the region. The Epidemiologist will advocate for research activities and capacity building in applied epidemiology, contributing to the dissemination of technical and scientific evidence-based reports and documents.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the Epidemiologist include: 1) Providing support to the Center's technical cooperation in defining and implementing methodological procedures for epidemiological tools and mathematical/statistical models; 2) Conducting analyses of epidemiological data related to disease prevention, surveillance, and response programs; 3) Offering training on the use of epidemiological tools and assisting in the development of technical guidelines; 4) Contributing to statistical analyses for quality control of PANAFTOSA diagnostic laboratory processes and test validation; 5) Participating in scientific conferences, technical meetings, and workshops as required; 6) Promoting inter-programmatic coordination with other technical entities for the development and implementation of epidemiological tools; 7) Advocating for research activities and capacity building in applied epidemiology; 8) Contributing to the development and dissemination of technical and scientific evidence-based reports, documents, and papers; 9) Performing other related duties as assigned.

Required Qualifications:
The required qualifications for the position include: Essential: A bachelor’s degree in public health, Veterinary science, or equivalent from a recognized university. Desirable: Certification in Epidemiology (e.g., MSc, PhD) and relevant training would be an asset. Candidates must provide scanned copies of their degrees/diplomas/certificates during the interview process. PAHO only considers official degrees from accredited institutions recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED).

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a bachelor’s degree in public health, Veterinary science, or a related field from a recognized university. Additional certifications in Epidemiology, such as a Master’s or PhD, are desirable and would enhance the candidate's profile. The educational qualifications must be from institutions accredited by recognized bodies, and candidates are required to provide proof of their qualifications during the recruitment process.

Experience:
Candidates should have a minimum of three years of professional experience in implementing and utilizing epidemiological tools and statistical analysis. This experience should include participation in technical cooperation programs and the provision of training in the field of epidemiology. Desirable experience includes working with international organizations and programs, particularly within the Inter-American Systems.

Languages:
Very good knowledge of Portuguese is mandatory, along with a working knowledge of English and/or Spanish. Proficiency in these languages is essential for effective communication and collaboration within the organization and with external stakeholders.

Additional Notes:
This position is subject to local recruitment regulations, and candidates must hold a permanent local working visa (citizenship or permanent resident card) of Brazil. The annual salary for this position is R$224,061.00 (net of taxes). The vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level. Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted, and a written test may be used as a form of screening. PAHO maintains high standards of integrity and accountability, and personnel are expected to uphold these standards in their professional and personal conduct. The organization promotes a work environment free from harassment and discrimination, and has a zero-tolerance policy for sexual exploitation and abuse. PAHO offers an attractive compensation package, including 30 days of annual leave, dependency benefits, a pension plan, and health insurance.