Organization: Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI)

Research Directorate: Nutrition, Environmental Health, and Non-Communicable Disease Research Directorate.

Type of Employment: Joint appointment between  Academic Institute and EPHI

Contract Type: As per the new joint employment guideline.

Duration: One year with possibility of extension based on performance and funding availability

Duty Station: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia, with potential travel to regional sites

Number: 2 (one on nutrition/public health nutrition, and one Public health or epidemiology background)

1. Background

The Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI) serves as the leading public health research and policy advisory body in Ethiopia. The Nutrition, Environmental Health, and Non-Communicable Disease Research Directorate is instrumental in generating evidence to inform public health policies and strategies. Senior researcher will work on the different projects. To be eligible to this position Senior Researcher has bring support letter from his/her Institute indicating willingness to candidate joint position.

2. Objective of the Position

The Senior Nutrition Researcher will provide leadership in research design, implementation, and dissemination of evidence related to nutrition and public health. The candidate will work closely with the NIPN project and other projects in the directorate to generate, synthesize, and translate evidence into policies and programs. The role involves a joint appointment with an academic institution to foster collaboration and capacity building. 

3. Key Responsibilities

3.1. Research Design and Implementation

• Lead the implementation of research projects aligned with the projects leads and other directorate’s priorities projects.

• Design, and conduct research studies focused on nutrition, food safety and public health, ensuring scientific rigor and adherence to ethical standards.

• Collaborate with EPHI and the academic institution to identify research gaps, develop study protocols, and secure funding through grant applications.

• Provide support to write manuscripts, technical reports from research findings

• Produce technical report, policy briefs from rigorous systematic reviews, in-depth analysis of studies etc.

3.2. Data Analysis and Evidence Synthesis

• Lead the analysis and interpretation of quantitative and qualitative data from various sources, including national surveys, routine monitoring systems, and research studies.

• Utilize advanced statistical software (e.g., SPSS, Stata, R) and data visualization tools to produce high-quality analyses and reports.

• Synthesize research findings into actionable policy recommendations, technical briefs, and manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals.

3.3. Project Coordination and Management

• Coordinate with the project team and other stakeholders to ensure effective project planning, implementation, and monitoring.

• Develop and manage project timelines, budgets, and resources, ensuring alignment with project goals and donor requirements.

• Regularly report on project progress, challenges, and outcomes to EPHI leadership, and project funders.

3.4. Policy Support and Advocacy

• Engage with policymakers, program implementers, and other stakeholders to promote the use of evidence in decision-making processes.

• Contribute to the development of policy briefs, guidelines, and presentations to inform national and regional nutrition policies and programs.

• Represent EPHI in national and international forums, technical working groups, and advisory committees to advocate for evidence-based nutrition interventions.

3.5. Capacity Building and Mentorship

• Provide mentorship and technical support to junior researchers, research fellows, and postgraduate students affiliated with EPHI and the academic institution.

• Facilitate training sessions and workshops on research methodologies, data analysis, and evidence-informed policymaking.

• Collaborate with academic partners to develop and deliver curriculum content for nutrition and public health courses.

3.6. Collaboration and Partnership Building

• Strengthen partnerships between EPHI, the academic institution, government ministries, and international organizations to advance the nutrition agenda.

• Participate in multidisciplinary research initiatives and collaborative projects that address cross-cutting issues in nutrition and public health.

• Contribute to the development of joint proposals and research initiatives with academic and research institutions.

3.7. Monitoring, Evaluation, and Reporting

• Develop and implement monitoring and evaluation frameworks to assess the impact and effectiveness of research activities.

• Prepare comprehensive research reports, project updates, and technical documents for dissemination to stakeholders.

• Ensure timely submission of deliverables, including research technical reports, project reports, and policy briefs etc.

Job Requirements

1. We need one candidate with graduate degree such as PhD in Human Nutrition, Community Nutrition, Food Science and Nutrition, Public Health, or related fields. Specialized training in research methods, public health systems or related is an advantage.

2. The second candidate should be PhD in Public Health or Epidemiology. 

• Both candidates must have recent peer reviewed publications as lead author or second/senior author.

4.2. Professional Experience

• Minimum of 8 years and above of experience in conducting and leading nutrition research, with a focus on public health nutrition and evidence-based policymaking.

• Demonstrated experience in managing research projects, including proposal development, project management, and reporting.

• Proven track record of publishing research findings in peer-reviewed journals and presenting at scientific conferences.

4.3. Technical Skills

• Proficiency in research methodologies, including study design, data collection, and advanced statistical analysis.

• Expertise in using statistical software (e.g., SPSS, Stata, R) 

• Strong skills in scientific writing, grant writing, and developing research proposals.

• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to work effectively in a multidisciplinary and collaborative environment.

• Strong leadership, organizational, and project management skills.

• Ability to engage with a diverse range of stakeholders and advocate for evidence-based policies.

Languages

• Fluency in English and Amharic is required. Knowledge of additional local languages is an asset.

• Interested and qualified candidates should submit their application letter, detailed CV, copies of relevant academic qualifications, and contact information for three professional references 

5. Application Process

6. Evaluation and Selection

The selection process will be based on the candidate's qualifications, experience, and ability to fulfill the responsibilities outlined in this ToR. Shortlisted candidates will be invited for an interview and may be required to present on a relevant research topic.

How to Apply

Note  Interested applicants can register in Online through only THIS LINK send their CVs and relevant documents at the address given below within 07days from the first appearance of the announcement

Remarks: Please attach copies of transcripts, academic degree or recommendation letters together with the application. If not attached the copies you may be not short listed.