Arbovirus Specialist Consultant

Objectives of the Department
The objective of the Health Emergencies Department (PHE) of the Pan American Health Organization (PAHO/WHO) is to increase health sector resilience to emergencies and disasters. PHE assists Member States to strengthen the health sector’s capacities in prevention, risk reduction, preparedness, surveillance, response, and early recovery for emergencies and disasters related to any hazards (natural, man-made, biological, chemical, radiological and others) and, when national capacities are overwhelmed, to lead and coordinate the international health response to contain disasters, including outbreaks, and to provide effective relief and recovery to affected populations. PHE is responsible for ensuring the implementation and updating of the PAHO/WHO Institutional Emergency and Disaster Response Policy.

Organizational context
The incumbent is a member of PHE’s Infectious Hazard Management Unit. Under the general supervision of the Deputy Director, Health Emergencies (PHE), and the direct supervision of the Advisor in Viral Diseases, Dr. Jairo Mendez Rico the incumbent is responsible for, but not limited to provide support and collaborate with the activities and coordination of the emerging viruses network.

Responsibilities

• Support and collaborate with the activities and coordination of the emerging viruses networks;
• Draft the emerging viruses web page, including forums, material and communications for the secretariat;
• Collaborate with the writing, revision, editing, publishing and distribution of documents related to emerging viruses;
• Support the implementation of entomovirological surveillance in selected countries
• Support the coordination of laboratory activities and trainings;
• Support all purchases processes, logistic and shipping of lab material to the countries;
• Generate and maintain an inventory of material and the updated information regarding distribution to countries (dashboard), and
• Collect the information from the courtiers regarding emerging viruses.

Education requirements (Qualifications)
Essential: Master’s Degree in Biology or related field
Desirable: A PhD in Virology or related field

Experience requirements
Essential: 9 years International Experience

Languages
Expert knowledge of official UN languages, including English and Spanish. Knowledge of Portuguese or French would be an asset.

Skills
Demonstrated ability to effectively use a computer and utilize software programs such as Microsoft Office, Word, Excel, Power Point, Outlook, SharePoint, etc. Other IT skills and knowledge of other software programs such as Workday, Visio and Project would be an asset.

Location
The incumbent will be expected to perform this position’s duties and responsibilities remotely.

Expected contract duration
November 2021 to 31 August 2022 (with the possibility of extension based on performance and availability of funding).