Individual consultancy services (international) on strengthening capacity of chemotherapists in cervical and breast cancer treatment

Job Posting Organization:
The job is posted by UNFPA (United Nations Population Fund), which is a leading global organization that aims to ensure that every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled. Established in 1969, UNFPA operates in over 150 countries and has a workforce of more than 4,000 employees. The organization focuses on reproductive health, gender equality, and population issues, working to improve the health and well-being of individuals and communities worldwide. UNFPA's mission is to deliver a world where every pregnancy is wanted, every childbirth is safe, and every young person's potential is fulfilled, emphasizing the importance of accessible healthcare and education.

Job Overview:
The consultancy position aims to strengthen the capacity of national chemotherapists in Turkmenistan regarding the treatment of cervical and breast cancers. The consultant will assess existing treatment protocols, develop updated clinical guidelines, and provide training to oncologists. This role is crucial as cervical and breast cancers are significant contributors to reproductive health-related mortality, yet they are preventable and treatable if detected early. The consultant will work closely with UNFPA and national health specialists to ensure that the updated protocols align with WHO recommendations and current medical advancements. The ultimate goal is to improve the 5-year survival rates for women suffering from these cancers, thereby enhancing their overall health and life expectancy.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The consultant will undertake several key responsibilities throughout the consultancy period. These include:

• Conducting a desk review of existing clinical protocols on chemotherapy treatment for cervical and breast cancers to identify gaps and areas for improvement.
• Developing detailed clinical protocols that outline specific chemotherapy regimens, phases, and timing tailored to individual patient conditions and cancer stages.
• Delivering training sessions for oncologists on the updated protocols and individualized treatment plans, ensuring that the training is comprehensive and practical.
• Preparing a preliminary report that includes findings from the assessment phase, developed materials, and recommendations for implementation.
• Conducting consultations with national specialists to refine the protocols and training materials based on feedback and local context.
• Compiling a final report that summarizes the consultancy's outcomes, including an executive summary and a detailed bibliography.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires an advanced degree in medical sciences, specifically in fields such as Oncology, Gynaecology, or Chemotherapy. The consultant must be a qualified oncologist or chemotherapist with a minimum of 7 years of relevant experience. A deep understanding of existing WHO recommendations and best practices in cancer treatment is essential. The consultant should possess strong analytical skills and have experience in effective and innovative teaching practices in the medical field. Fluency in English is mandatory, while knowledge of Russian is considered an advantage. Familiarity with the Central Asian context will be beneficial for understanding local healthcare dynamics and challenges.

Educational Background:
Candidates must hold an advanced degree in medical sciences, with a specialization in Oncology, Gynaecology, or Chemotherapy. This educational background is crucial for understanding the complexities of cancer treatment and the necessary protocols that need to be developed and updated during the consultancy.

Experience:
The consultant is expected to have at least 7 years of professional experience in the field of oncology or chemotherapy. This experience should include direct involvement in cancer treatment, protocol development, and training of healthcare professionals. The consultant should also have a proven track record of working with international health organizations or in similar consultancy roles, demonstrating the ability to adapt to different healthcare systems and practices.

Languages:
Fluency in English is a mandatory requirement for this position, as all communications and deliverables will be conducted in English. Knowledge of Russian is considered an asset, as it may facilitate communication with local healthcare professionals and stakeholders. Proficiency in additional languages relevant to the Central Asian region could also be beneficial.

Additional Notes:
The consultancy is set to last for 17 working days, commencing on July 5th and concluding on August 31st, 202

• The operational closure of the contract will be on October 1st, 202
• The consultant will be required to deliver services both remotely and on-site in Turkmenistan, with one expected in-country travel for approximately 6 days in August 2025 for capacity-building training. The consultancy fee will be calculated based on the P-4 level of the UN Salary Scale for Professional and higher categories, effective January 1, 2025, and will be paid in a lump sum upon successful completion of deliverables. UNFPA emphasizes a work environment that reflects gender equality, diversity, and integrity, encouraging applications from women, persons with disabilities, and individuals from underrepresented groups.