Scientist (Cancer Prevention %26 Early Detection)

PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

As a Scientist in the Prevention and Implementation (PRI) Group, the incumbent assists in the Group’s efforts to expand its research in the field of cancer prevention and early detection, with particular emphasis on the implementation of methods for the early detection of breast cancers and expanding to other cancer sites notably in the Republic of Belarus, Eastern Europe, LMICs and in the rest of the world.

The incumbent is expected to promote international implementation research in the field of cancer prevention and early detection. Responsibilities include coordination and collaboration with national and international partners in order to implement population-based screening of the disease throughout Eastern Europe.

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME

The goals of the Prevention and Implementation Group (PRI) are to\:

- Evaluate new strategies in cancer prevention, with particular emphasis on the use of new technologies, including molecular markers;

- Engage in research on methods to implement existing cancer prevention strategies in different countries taking into account the social, economic and cultural differences;

- Collaborate with decision makers to implement already available preventive interventions against cancer, particularly in developing countries where the need is highest and to foster technology transfer, and

- Generate educational processes for clinicians, public health decision makers and the public, to make sure the available technology is put in place where it is needed most.

More information about the PRI Group at IARC can be found at the following link\:

https\://www.iarc.fr/en/research-groups/PRI/index.php

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

Within the framework of the PRI Group, the incumbent is expected to\:

1. Coordinate the preparation and implementation of pilot breast cancer screening programs in the Republic of Belarus in order to implement population-based screening of the disease throughout the country, in collaboration with the Belarus Ministry of Health, National Cancer Centre and the specialized UN agencies.

The component on implementation of the screening programme for breast cancer is a part of the established European Union-UN Joint Programme (JP BELMED) on promoting effective prevention of non-communicable diseases (NCDs) and strengthening the national health system to effectively address the challenges of NCDs in the Republic of Belarus.

2. Organize and coordinate local and international training for the Belarus cancer screening project management team and medical personnel (e.g., screening providers, epidemiologists, radiologists and pathologists).

3. In collaboration with WHO and UNFPA, actively participate in the development of a comprehensive plan including information materials for starting cancer screening pilot programs in Belarus.

4. In collaboration with WHO and UNDP, actively participate in the development, introduction and adaptation of the breast cancer screening register in Belarus.

5. Actively participate in the implementation of the breast cancer screening program in Belarus, including involvement in the feasibility research and the publication of its results. Coordinate monitoring and quality assurance activities in the context of the Belarus project.

6. Contribute to writing grants with a view to attract research funding for prevention and early detection initiatives.

7. Participate in the Group’s educational activities including at the IARC Summer School.

8. Carry out other related duties as assigned by the PRI Group Head, including maintaining contacts with funding bodies, undertaking extensive duty travel and representing the Agency and Group, as required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Essential\: PhD or equivalent in Medicine or Public Health.

Desirable\: Clinical training related to oncology

Experience

Essential\:

1/ Postdoctoral experience in the field of cancer prevention and early detection, as demonstrated by lead authorships of relevant peer reviewed publications supplemented by at least two years’ post-doctoral experience in conducting cancer studies.

2/ Experience in teaching and training.

Desirable\:

1/ Working in international collaborative projects.

2/ Understanding of the health care system in Belarus and neighboring countries.

3/ Experience setting up cancer screening programs.

4/ Ability to work in a team and independently.

Skills

Functional skills\:

The functional skills listed below are all essential.

1/ Excellent knowledge of cancer epidemiology.

2/ Demonstrated ability to participate in the preparation and coordination of the implementation of pilot studies on screening programmes for breast cancer.

3/ Ability to participate in the preparation and coordination of pilot studies of preventive interventions for major cancer sites mainly but not limited to lung, prostate, cervical and colorectal.

4/ Ability to draft manuscripts and technical reports.

5/ Proven planning and time management skills.

6/ Familiar with preparation of grant applications.

7/ Excellent oral and written communication skills.

Required WHO competencies\:

Ability to\:

1/ Produce and deliver quality results

2/ Respect and promote individual and cultural differences      

3/ Move forward in a changing and moving environment

Languages

Essential\: Expert knowledge of both English and Russian are required. Excellent oral and written knowledge of English and Russian are required.

Desirable\: Basic or higher knowledge of French.

REMUNERATION

Remuneration for WHO/IARC staff in the Professional and higher category is quoted in US dollars.

The fixed remuneration for the above position comprises an annual net salary plus a post adjustment which reflects the cost of living in a particular duty station.

Total fixed remuneration for this position currently amounts to USD 70823 per annum which is the sum of\: 1) annual net salary of USD 46472 at Level P2/Step I of the UN professional salary scale, plus 2) post adjustment for Lyon, France currently amounting to an annualized figure of USD 24351.

The fixed remuneration is expressed net of income tax but before deduction of the employee share contributions for mandatory participation in the United Nations Joint Staff Pension Fund and in the Organization’s private insurance plans covering health, accident, illness and disability.

Other benefits include 30 days of annual leave and allowances for dependent family members.

Subject to certain conditions, internationally-recruited staff may also be entitled to relocation travel & shipment, settling-in grant upon appointment, home leave and/or education grant for dependent children.

More information about the remuneration and benefit package applicable at WHO/IARC can be found at the following link\: http\://www.who.int/careers/what-we-offer/en/

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

• It is mandatory to attach a full list of publications. To add this list, please go to your profile under the dedicated "publication" tab.

• Application profiles should include the details of all of the candidate's work experiences to date (full career details).

• All candidates are strongly encouraged to add a cover letter (in English) to their online application.

• Candidates called for interview will be expected to give a seminar (in English).

• This vacancy notice may be used to fill other similar positions at the same grade level.

• Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.

• Any appointment/extension of appointment is subject to WHO Staff Regulations, Staff Rules and Manual.

• For information on WHO's operations please visit\: http\://www.who.int.

• WHO/IARC is committed to workforce diversity. Applications from women are particularly encouraged.

• WHO/IARC has a smoke-free environment and does not recruit smokers or users of any form of tobacco.