Epidemiology Consultancy at Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi)

Purpose of the position
The objective of the assignment is:

• To perform a systematic review of literature to characterize mycetoma epidemiology globally.
• To work with partners to obtain retrospective information on cases of mycetoma.   
• Design, plan and implement mycetoma epidemiological studies.

Specific job responsibilities

• Design and preparation of epidemiological survey protocols for mycetoma.
• Review of reports from analyses of health facility data, literature reviews, and develop manuscripts.
• Produce or contribute to special reports and statistical analysis of epidemiological investigations to ensure readiness for the implementation of planned clinical trials on mycetoma.
• Supervise epidemiological research activities.

Job requirements
Skills and attributes

• Ability to use initiative, prioritize, multi-task, and work well under pressure to meet deadlines.
• Clear and systematic thinking that demonstrates good judgment and problem-solving competencies.
• Very good communication skills in multicultural, multilingual environments.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multicultural team.
• Well organized and structured.
• Very good analytical skills.
• Ability to contribute to the project delivery under minimum supervision.
• Provide specialist services to operational line or project team.
• Autonomy for taking actions and decisions.
• Ability to interact with external stakeholders.
• Ability to supervise at a smaller level.

R&D technical skills

• Proven practical skills in design / implementation / evaluation of quantitative and qualitative epidemiological research methods.
• Ability to design and implement field surveys, and to train others in appropriate data collection and analysis.
• Knowledge and practical skills with computer software for data management and statistical analysis (SPSS, STATA, SAS, and/or EpiInfo), word processing (Word), complex use of spreadsheets (Excel) is required for data management, analysis, interpretation, and preparation of reports.
• Ability to write scientific proposals for peer-reviewed research publications.
• Knowledge of clinical research/development.
• Knowledge of disease/academia knowledge.

Experience

• Five years’ experience as an epidemiologist with a research organization, university, or public health services implementing agency is required.

Education

• Masters’ degree in epidemiology, or a master’s degree in public health with extensive epidemiology training.
• A PhD degree is an added advantage

Other information

• Status: Part time 9-months consultancy
• Travel and field work up to 40%