Support the development AI tool for Risk Communication and Community Engagement
Organizational Context
The World Health Organization (WHO) in the Western Pacific Region works with 37 Member States to combat infectious and noncommunicable diseases, improve maternal and child health, ensure environmental safety, and respond to public health emergencies. The WHO Western Pacific Regional Office is developing BRIDGE, an operational approach with tools for social listening, risk assessment, and evidence-informed Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE). This initiative aims to strengthen preparedness and response capacities across the region.
Job Purpose
This assignment supports the development of an AI-enabled tool to enhance evidence-informed decision-making during public health emergencies. The tool will help responders rapidly understand community needs and translate insights into timely communication and engagement strategies. The Online Volunteer will bridge RCCE and health communication expertise with AI development, contributing to a practical, user-centered decision-support solution. This initiative aligns with WHO's work on Sustainable Development Goal 3 (Good Health and Well-being) and aims to strengthen preparedness and response capacities in the Western Pacific Region.
Responsibilities
The Online Volunteer will support the development of an AI-enabled tool for evidence-informed health emergency decision-making, focusing on translating public health and RCCE needs into practical AI workflows. Key responsibilities include reviewing RCCE tools and workflows to define user requirements, use cases, and content specifications for the AI tool. The volunteer will collaborate with the RCCE team to determine how community insights translate into response options, including safeguards. They will also bridge the gap between RCCE and IT/AI teams by clarifying technical requirements, documenting specifications, and supporting feature prioritization. Additionally, the role involves supporting the development and testing of AI-driven decision-support functions, developing test scenarios, and preparing technical documentation to ensure continuity between public health and IT workstreams.
Work Experience
Candidates should possess a combination of experience or strong demonstrated interest in public health/RCCE/health communication and applied artificial intelligence or digital product development. Experience translating technical or operational needs into clear requirements, workflows, use cases, or specifications is highly desirable. Familiarity with applied AI concepts, particularly large language models (LLMs), generative AI, prompt design, or AI-assisted decision support, is also beneficial.
Skills
Strong understanding of Risk Communication and Community Engagement (RCCE), health communication, behavioural or social science, and public health emergency management. Familiarity with applied AI concepts (LLMs, generative AI, prompt design, AI-assisted decision support). Ability to translate technical requirements between subject-matter experts and developers. Strong research, analytical, and communication skills. Experience with user testing, quality assurance, or human-centred design is an asset.