Term of Reference for Consultant Epidemiologist for Workforce Development
Position Description
Position Name: Consultant Epidemiologist
Position type: Full-time
No. of Positions: One (1)
Organization: SAFETYNET
Reporting to: NIE-EIS Program Director
Location: National Institute of Epidemiology, Chennai, India
Background
The Indian Council of Medical Research – National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE), Chennai in collaboration with US Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) started a two year in-service advanced field epidemiology training program -India Epidemic Intelligence Service (EIS) Programme in 2018, on lines of the successful US CDC EIS programme.
The course is aimed at preparing public health professionals in India for leadership positions at district, State and national levels, provide epidemiologic services and to develop a cadre of experienced epidemiologists for that country. Objectives of the programme is to create highly competent field epidemiologists within the public health sector to meet national need for public health leaders.
The US CDC and SAFETYNET are committed to supporting the NIE in running this programme and thus are looking forward to recruit highly qualified persons with skills in field epidemiology for the position of Consultant Epidemiologist.
Job Summary
Consultant– Epidemiologist, under the guidance of NIE-EIS Program Director will work in close collaboration with CDC, SAFETYNET, and NIE-ICMR to provide technical support to India EIS Program for smooth running of the program. As a technical member, s/he is expected to undertake activities related to the field work, mentorship and for India EIS Officers. S/he is expected to fulfil the below mentioned responsibilities:
Provide technical support to the India EIS officers on their Core Activity of Learning (CAL)
Mentor India EIS officers related to outbreak investigations, evaluations of public health surveillance system and epidemiological studies
Review EIS reports related to public health response technically and facilitate administrative approval
Review scientific abstracts for conferences and scientific presentations at national/international forums
Review manuscripts for administrative submission and publications
Review progress of the EIS trainees on their CALs and support NIE-ICMR in updating database of EIS officer projects
Coordinate with the NIE-EIS team for Weekly Afternoon Seminar (TAS)
Coordinate common EIS hub activities like monthly seminars, field investigations, EIS annual conference, hub meetings and other activities as assigned.
Develop an epidemiological analysis plan, conduct descriptive and analytical epidemiological studies
Support in district level Frontline Epidemiology Training conducted by NIE-ICMR.
Plan surveillance to assess disease/ health condition/ risk factor burden of public health importance
Support in documenting EIS program guidelines, standard operating procedures and required program monthly and quarterly reports
Visit to placement sites and field investigation sites to mentor and monitor EIS Officers activities and Frontline Epidemiology Training Activities.
Any other work assigned by the NIE EIS Director/CDC Advisors for EIS.
Qualifications
Essential
MBBS with postgraduation in Community Medicine (MD)/ public health (MPH)/ postgraduate diploma in public health/Field Epidemiology Training Program or EIS training program graduate.
Minimum of two years of public health experience
Desirable
FETP/EIS training program graduate
Experience and Skills
Minimum 2 years’ experience in public health; field epidemiology, implementation of public health projects and programs at state/national level. Preference will be given to those with India EIS Training
Experience of designing, implementing and managing epidemiological studies and other research projects
Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English
Knowledge of public health issues, epidemiology, research methodology, and scientific writing
Excellent interpersonal relations; ability to network, work in multi-cultural team environment, and work harmoniously with multiple partners
Good working knowledge of computer applications, especially MS office, Epi Info
Strong and proven documentation and organizational skills
Ability to travel extensively at short notice
How to apply
After reviewing the job description and responsibilities, submit your application with the latest CV, and documents supporting education and experience to SAFETYNET at mohankumar@safetynet-web.org and n.mandhi@safetynet-web.org. Please note that the last date for applying is 4 January 2023 at 5 PM.
Remuneration
INR 1,25,000 per month.