Research Officer in Cancer Survivorship Epidemiology

Job Posting Organization:
The International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) is a specialized agency of the World Health Organization (WHO) established to promote international collaboration in cancer research. Founded in 1965, IARC is headquartered in Lyon, France, and operates with a mission to reduce the global burden of cancer through research and collaboration. The agency employs a diverse workforce of over 300 staff members from various countries, contributing to its goal of advancing cancer research and public health. IARC collaborates with numerous countries and organizations worldwide to enhance cancer research and improve cancer prevention and control strategies.

Job Overview:
The position of Research Officer in Cancer Survivorship Epidemiology is crucial for the Environment and Lifestyle Epidemiology (ENV) branch of IARC. The primary objective of this role is to assist in developing a comprehensive program focused on cancer survivorship epidemiology. This includes conducting studies that examine the quality of life of cancer patients and survivors, as well as the late effects of cancer and its treatment. The incumbent will work on projects that span both low and high-income countries, contributing to the IARC's vision of a world where fewer individuals develop cancer. This role presents an excellent opportunity for professional growth in the field of cancer survivorship epidemiology, particularly as the population of cancer survivors continues to increase globally.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The incumbent will be responsible for a variety of tasks under the supervision of the deputy Head of the ENV branch. Key duties include: 1) Setting up studies to investigate the after and late effects of cancer and the quality of life of cancer patients within large French population-based cohorts. This involves developing questionnaires, response methodologies, and data collection tools. 2) Assisting in the coordination and management of studies, ensuring compliance with all ethical and legal documentation for quality-of-life studies involving French and other cohorts. 3) Analyzing longitudinal and cross-sectional data related to the quality of life of cancer patients and their determinants, including detailed treatment information. 4) Developing study protocols aimed at investigating cancer after and late effects. 5) Interacting with international experts in cancer quality of life measurement and collaborating with specialists in parent studies. 6) Writing grant proposals and assisting in the preparation, launch, and monitoring of studies related to cancer survivorship. 7) Contributing to scientific manuscript writing for quality of life and other cancer-related studies within the ENV branch. 8) Assisting in the analysis of ongoing studies within the ENV branch.

Required Qualifications:
Candidates must possess a PhD in Epidemiology or a closely related discipline. Essential qualifications include at least one year of post-doctoral experience in cancer epidemiology. Desirable qualifications include experience in data collection and analysis of various quality of life measurement instruments, familiarity with statistical methods in epidemiology, and hands-on experience in cancer survivorship studies. Additionally, experience in analyzing longitudinal data, conducting fieldwork epidemiology, and preparing ethics applications for studies in France is preferred. Candidates should also have experience utilizing France’s national health data system (SNDS) and a proven track record of manuscript writing for scientific publications in peer-reviewed journals.

Educational Background:
The educational background required for this position includes a PhD in Epidemiology or a closely related field. This advanced degree is essential for understanding the complexities of cancer epidemiology and survivorship research. Candidates with additional qualifications or certifications in public health, biostatistics, or related disciplines may also be considered favorably.

Experience:
The position requires candidates to have a minimum of one year of post-doctoral experience in cancer epidemiology. This experience should ideally include practical involvement in cancer survivorship studies, data analysis, and familiarity with quality of life measurement instruments. Candidates with a background in longitudinal data analysis and fieldwork epidemiology will be particularly well-suited for this role.

Languages:
Expert knowledge of English and French is essential for this position, as the incumbent will be required to communicate effectively with internal and external stakeholders, including collaborators in francophone countries. Proficiency in additional languages may be considered an asset but is not mandatory.

Additional Notes:
The position offers a competitive remuneration package, with an annual base salary starting at USD 43,144, subject to applicable deductions. Additionally, a variable post adjustment reflecting the cost of living at the duty station is provided, currently amounting to USD 1,790 per month. Other benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children. The position may be filled at the same grade level or lower, and only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted. A written test and/or presentation may be part of the screening process. Candidates selected for an interview will need to provide scanned copies of their educational qualifications. IARC/WHO is committed to diversity and inclusion, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and nationals of underrepresented countries. The organization maintains a smoke-free environment and has a zero-tolerance policy towards sexual exploitation and abuse.