National Epidemiologist

Organizational Context

The Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is a specialized agency supporting sustainable agrifood systems globally. In Malawi, FAO has operated since 1986, assisting the government with priority activities aligned with national development aspirations. This role is guided by the Country Programming Framework, focusing on agriculture transformation, sustainable natural resources, and improved resilience. FAO Malawi is collaborating on the "Strengthening Pandemic Prevention, Preparedness and Response through the One Health Approach in Malawi" project, funded by the Pandemic Fund, to enhance national systems for preventing, detecting, and responding to epidemic and pandemic threats.

Job Purpose

The National Epidemiologist will provide technical leadership and coordination for key components of the Pandemic Fund project in Malawi, specifically focusing on surveillance and early warning systems, and capacity development. This role is crucial for strengthening the generation, analysis, and utilization of animal health and One Health surveillance information. The objective is to enhance preparedness and response capabilities for priority zoonotic diseases and emerging threats, thereby contributing to evidence-based planning, effective reporting, and the development of valuable knowledge products that support national health security objectives.

Responsibilities

The incumbent will contribute to developing and reviewing national strategies, emergency preparedness, and response plans for priority zoonotic and animal diseases, aligning with national priorities and FAO's Strategic Framework. Responsibilities include designing and coordinating surveillance activities for emerging and re-emerging threats, preparing work plans, and organizing technical workshops to enhance epidemiological functions. The role involves facilitating the implementation of surveillance system assessment recommendations, developing epidemiological protocols, and delivering capacity development for professionals using field epidemiology training. Additionally, the incumbent will conduct risk assessments, support technical missions, organize stakeholder consultations, and contribute to animal health policy frameworks. Coordination of the Human Resource Action Package, adoption of the ISAVET program, and design/delivery of capacity development activities for government staff and value chain actors are key. The role also includes supporting the operationalization of the One Health platform, promoting linkages between health sectors, providing epidemiological updates, coordinating with laboratory counterparts, participating in emergency exercises, and contributing to electronic reporting systems and resource mobilization efforts.

Work Experience

A minimum of five years of relevant professional experience is necessary. This includes experience in epidemiology, surveillance system design and implementation, animal health emergency preparedness and response, training design and delivery, capacity development monitoring and evaluation, data analysis, operational research, policy support, One Health coordination, and stakeholder engagement.

Skills

Essential skills include demonstrated expertise in veterinary epidemiology, surveillance system design and implementation for zoonotic and animal diseases. Experience in developing and delivering capacity-building initiatives for animal and public health professionals is crucial. Proven ability to coordinate multisectoral collaborations within a One Health framework and experience in analyzing and using epidemiological data for evidence-based planning and policy development are required. Experience in establishing partnerships with government institutions, UN agencies, NGOs, and donors, particularly in Malawi, is highly valued. Knowledge of the animal and public health landscape in Malawi is an advantage.

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