Regional Adviser (Research Policy and Cooperation)

OBJECTIVES OF THE PROGRAMME

The Objectives of the programme on research policy and cooperation are to develop a well-balanced regional research agenda, and to support the development of regional health research systems capacity in collaboration with Member States, international organizations, NGOs and other WHO programmes.

DESCRIPTION OF DUTIES

Under the overall guidance of Director, Programme Management (DPM) and close supervision of the Senior Adviser, (Science Research and Innovation) the incumbent will:

1. Support the development of regional research priorities, and lead the Regional Office's programme of work in line with WHO's overall strategic priorities and policies;

2. Within the regional office, advise staff in technical departments on research methods; to establish and maintain a regional office inventory of research activities, and analyse how these map onto SEARO's strategic directions;

3. Ensure coordination and exchange of information on research with HQ; with other regional offices, health ministries, medical research councils, other organizations including regional research networks etc,.

4. Collaborate with national authorities, NGOs and international organizations in the formulation of national, and also regional, health research programmes;

5. Develop research promotion activities including conduct of research capacity building activities within the region;

6. Support country research activities through technical advice and guidance to national staff and consultants;

7. Mobilise additional funds for research within the region; and

8. Perform any other related duties as required.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS

Education

Essential: Master's degree in the field of public health or health policy and systems research.
Desirable: PhD or equivalent in the field of public health or health policy and systems research. Training in management and/or public health administration.

Experience

Essential: At least 10 years of relevant experience including considerable experience obtained in an international context, in the development and implementation of health research programme.
Desirable: Experience in research in lower/middle income country settings.

Skills

- Knowledge of a wide range of research methods applied in low and middle income countries.

- Knowledge, skills and experience in approaches to strengthening health research systems.

- Ability to respond proactively to the organizational environment and provide support / solutions to both policy makers and researchers in Member States, WCOs, Technical Departments in RO.

- Ability to coordinate, monitor, advice, and cooperate with partners and donors.

- Strong interpersonal skills, ability to work in a multi-cultural, multi-centre environment with sensitivity and respect to diverse cultures.

- Ability to design strategies and approach issues systematically.

WHO Competencies

1. Teamwork
2. Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
3. Communication
4. Building and promoting partnerships across the organization and beyond
5. Ensuring the effective use of resources
6. Creating an empowering and motivating environment

Use of Language Skills

Essential: Expert knowledge of English.

REMUNERATION

WHO salaries for staff in the Professional category are calculated in US dollars. The remuneration for the above position comprises an annual base salary starting at USD 89,837 (subject to mandatory deductions for pension contributions and health insurance, as applicable), a variable post adjustment, which reflects the cost of living in a particular duty station, and currently amounts to USD 2613 per month for the duty station indicated above. Other benefits include 30 days of annual leave, allowances for dependent family members, home leave, and an education grant for dependent children.

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION

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

• Only candidates under serious consideration will be contacted.

• A written test may be used as a form of screening.

• In the event that your candidature is retained for an interview, you will be required to provide, in advance, a scanned copy of the degree(s)/diploma(s)/certificate(s) required for this position. WHO only considers higher educational qualifications obtained from an institution accredited/recognized in the World Higher Education Database (WHED), a list updated by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO). The list can be accessed through the link: http://www.whed.net/. Some professional certificates may not appear in the WHED and will require individual review.

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

• Staff members in other duty stations are encouraged to apply.

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

• WHO is committed to workforce diversity.

• WHO's workforce adheres to the WHO Values Charter and is committed to put the WHO Values into practice.

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

• WHO has a mobility policy which can be found at the following link: http://www.who.int/employment/en/. Candidates appointed to an international post with WHO are subject to mobility and may be assigned to any activity or duty station of the Organization throughout the world.

• Applications from women and from nationals of non and underrepresented Member States are particularly encouraged.