Roster for Technical Experts - TB

Objectives of the Programme and of the immediate unit or field activity:
The objective of the TB programme is to collaborate and support the Member States for further development and implementation of national policies and strategies which ensure equitable and universal access to quality health care and in the areas of Tuberculosis.

Organizational Context:
Under the broad guidance of Director, Communicable Diseases (CDS) and the direct supervision of the Regional Adviser - TB,
TB and in collaboration with concerned staff in CDS/SEARO, other departments in the Regional and WHO
country offices, the incumbent will provide technical support to the SEAR Member States in planning, capacity building, surveillance and implementation of activities for universal access to TPT and multidrug-resistant TB services under National Tuberculosis Programmes, through engagement of, and collaboration with all relevant partners.

Under the general guidance of the Director Communicable Diseases and supervision of the Regional Advisor, TUB, the incumbent will perform the following duties.

1. Support and provide advice in the areas of Drug Resistant TB (DRTB), TB preventive treatment (TPT) and research in TB to the Member States, in adoption of updated WHO guidelines and implementation of respective National Strategic Plans;
2. Monitor implementation of DR-TB and TPT in Member States and strengthen in-country capacity to plan, implement and manage these disease areas;
3. Support strengthening of laboratory capacity including adoption of new diagnostic tools in Member States;
4. Develop a Regional roadmap for research and innovation needs for TB in the Region;
5. Partner and stakeholder coordination for technical assistance (TA), advocacy and monitoring missions through platforms like the "regional Green Light Committee (rGLC)" and other platforms for coordination on TPT and research;
6. Prepare documents for strategic advice on implementation priorities for Member States through epidemiological analysis of available data using modelling tools;
7. Provide support in adaptation, adoption and implementation of guidelines on newer drugs, and shorter regimen;
8. Coordinate capacity building and provide technical support in conducting research, including operational research related to new tools, technologies and regimen, in conjunction with designated WHO collaborating centres, institutions of excellence and recognized experts in the field of TB in the Region;
9. Coordinate with GDF to support Member States in monitoring, quantification and forecasting preventive treatment and second line anti-TB drugs;
10. Coordinate with other departments in RO for cross-cutting issues on DR-TB and TPT such as access to newer drugs, laboratory systems strengthening and addressing health systems related issues;
11. Prepare annual donor reports as necessary;
12. Carry out any other duties as assigned by the supervisor.
13. Submit an end of assignment report (mandatory)

Competencies:
- Teamwork
- Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
- Communication
- Producing results
- Building and promoting partnerships across the organization and beyond

Functional Skills and Knowledge (Describe skills and knowledge specific to the post):

Broad knowledge of principles, practices, methods and technologies in public health management, especially in areas of his/her responsibility. Ability to have close collaboration with nationals and staff members. Excellent drafting skills to produce reports, policies, documents on subject matter(s)and deliver verbal presentations.

Education (Qualifications):

Essential: A Master's degree in Public Health and/or other similar post graduate degree

Desirable: International training in TB/MDR-TB.

Experience:

Essential: At least 5 years’ experience in public health, preferably in providing technical support to national TB programme in at least one of the relevant areas out of drug-resistant TB, preventive treatment and research

Desirable: Experience of working in an international agency in one of the Member States of SE Asia Region

Languages: Expert knowledge of English.

Other Skills (e.g. IT):

ADDITIONAL QUALIFICATION
- This requisition is created for roster selection of candidates and Grade P.4. This VN would be used to
establish a roster of qualified professional with relevant expertise to meet the surge needs in the area of Tuberculosis. The main objective of TB Programme is to collaborate and support the Member States for further development and implementation of national policies and strategies which ensure equitable and universal access to quality health care and in the areas of Tuberculosis.
- The grade of the position offered will be fixed based on the level of responsibilities and complexity of tasks assigned as
reflected in the terms of reference.
- The duration of temporary assignment would vary from six (6) months to one year. Any extension of contract would be
subject to programmatic requirements, performance of the incumbent and availability of funds.
- Please note applications should be submitted through WHO's online recruitment portal only. Please visit www.who.int/
careers to complete an online profile and to apply to this vacancy.
- Eligible and shortlisted candidates may be called for a written test for inclusion in the roster.