Epidemiology Consultancy at Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi)

Job Description

Drugs for Neglected Diseases initiative (DNDi) is an independent, not-for-profit drug development initiative established in by five publicly-funded research organizations – Malaysian Ministry of Health, Kenya Medical Research Institute, Indian Council of Medical Research, Oswaldo Cruz Foundation Brazil, and the Institut Pasteur – as well as an international humanitarian organization, Médecins Sans Frontières. The UNICEF/UNDP/World Bank/WHO’s Special Programme for Research and Training in Tropical Diseases (TDR) is a permanent observer. With a robust portfolio, DNDi aims to develop new, improved, and field-relevant drugs for neglected diseases, including leishmaniasis, human African trypanosomiasis (sleeping sickness), Chagas disease, malaria, filarial diseases, paediatric HIV, mycetoma, and hepatitis C that afflict the poorest populations of the world.

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%