Epidemiologist

Job Advertisement

Position Title: Epidemiologist
Location: Senegal
Country: Senegal
Deadline Date:

Job Details

Job Posting Organization:
The Clinton Health Access Initiative, Inc. (CHAI) is a global health organization founded in 2002, primarily in response to the HIV/AIDS epidemic. Its mission is to save lives and reduce the burden of disease in low- and middle-income countries by supporting governments and the private sector in creating and sustaining high-quality health systems. CHAI operates in 40 countries and has a diverse team dedicated to addressing various health challenges, including infectious diseases and non-communicable diseases. The organization emphasizes the importance of sustainable impact and global learning, ensuring that programs are designed to scale nationally and that solutions are led by governments. CHAI values diversity and inclusion, recognizing that a diverse workforce enhances its mission and effectiveness.

Job Overview:
CHAI is seeking a highly motivated epidemiologist with strong public health experience and analytical skills to oversee and guide the activities and operations of the epidemiology team based in Africa. The successful candidate will lead a team of epidemiologists working directly with government counterparts and CHAI staff to assess, design, and scale-up disease surveillance systems. This role involves conducting robust epidemiological and spatial data analysis, monitoring and evaluating the success of ongoing efforts to achieve malaria and neglected tropical diseases (NTDs) elimination, and translating results for decision-makers. The individual will collaborate with a diverse team across multiple countries and regions, government programs, academics, and public health agencies. Strong communication, organizational, and management skills are essential, as is a deep personal commitment to producing results. CHAI values qualities such as resourcefulness, tenacity, independence, patience, humility, and a strong work ethic.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The duties and responsibilities of the epidemiologist include serving as the lead focal point for malaria and NTD surveillance and analytics workstreams across Africa. The individual will act as an expert and technical advisor, contributing to the strategic vision for malaria and NTDs in Africa, focusing on the robust use of epidemiological data to inform strategic processes. Responsibilities also include managing and overseeing analytics and surveillance workstreams, developing and deploying digital tools for surveillance systems, conducting monitoring and evaluation of existing processes, and designing operational research projects related to surveillance and intervention effectiveness. The role requires direct management and mentorship of junior and mid-level epidemiologists, collaboration with technical teams and governmental staff, and establishing relationships with academic institutions and NGOs. Additionally, the epidemiologist will lead documentation and M&E processes, manage resources for sharing lessons learned, and represent CHAI at external technical meetings.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a DrPH or PhD in Public Health, Epidemiology, or a related field, or equivalent experience. Candidates should have at least 7 years of relevant working experience with increasing levels of responsibility and leadership. Knowledge of malaria, NTDs, and other major global infectious disease problems is essential. The candidate should demonstrate enthusiasm for applying research methods to solve global health issues, experience in strategic planning through data use, and the ability to work with mathematical/geospatial modeling partners. Proven experience in leading teams, managing multiple epidemiological projects, and having at least 2 lead-authored peer-reviewed publications in relevant fields is required. Familiarity with statistical and geospatial analysis software, exceptional communication skills, and the ability to work independently in diverse environments are also necessary.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a DrPH or PhD in Public Health, Epidemiology, or a related field. Equivalent experience in public health or epidemiology may also be considered. The educational background should include a strong foundation in epidemiological methods, data analysis, and public health principles.

Experience:
The position requires at least 7 years of working experience related to the responsibilities outlined, with a focus on public health and epidemiology. Candidates should have experience in leading teams, managing epidemiological projects, and working with government officials and external partners. Experience in evaluating and strengthening disease surveillance systems is also essential, along with a proven track record of conducting and analyzing epidemiological surveys.

Languages:
Fluency in English is mandatory for this position. Additional language skills in French and/or Portuguese are considered advantageous, especially for candidates working in Africa where these languages are prevalent.

Additional Notes:
The position may involve extensive travel (approximately 30%). CHAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. The role is likely to be full-time, and the organization values candidates who can work independently and adapt to new environments. Compensation and benefits details are not specified in the job description.