Organization: Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI)

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

Type of Employment: Transfer from Academic Institutes only. 

Contract Type: As per the Government employment guideline.

Duration: Permanent

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

Area of experts:  Public Health with knowledge and research experience in non-communicable diseases (NCDs).

Number:  One

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 to bring support letter from his/her Institute indicating willingness to trasfer to EPHI.

2. Objective of the Position

The successful candidate will play a critical role in designing and implementing research projects focused on case identification, refining case definitions, and developing possible interventions for NCDs. This position demands a blend of clinical expertise, research experience, and a commitment to advancing public health. The Senior Researcher will contribute to the development, implementation, and evaluation of research initiatives related to non-communicable diseases. They will support the collection, analysis, and interpretation of data to inform policy and practice, aiming to improve public health outcomes in the area of NCDs. The candidate will work closely with project leads in the directorate to generate, synthesize, and translate evidence into policies and programs.

3. Key Responsibilities

3.1. Research Design and Implementation

• Lead the design, planning, and implementation of research projects on various aspects of non-communicable diseases (e.g., epidemiology, prevention, management, and policy development).

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

• Develop and refine methodologies tools for identifying cases of priority NCDs, including diabetes, hypertension, cardiovascular diseases, chronic respiratory conditions, cancer, and mental health disorders 

• Collaborate with EPHI, partners 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 Collection, Analysis and Evidence Synthesis

• Lead or assist in the collection of primary and secondary data related to NCDs.

• Ensure data accuracy, reliability, and compliance with ethical standards.

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

• Interpret research findings, drawing meaningful conclusions and making evidence-based recommendations for NCD interventions.

• 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

• Provide expert advice to policymakers and stakeholders on NCD-related issues, particularly related to prevention, control, and management strategies.

• Develop recommendations for integrating NCD prevention and management strategies into national health policies and programs.

• Contribute to the formulation of guidelines and best practices for NCD care and management.

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

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

• Organize training workshops and capacity-building sessions on NCD research methodologies, data analysis, evidence-informed policymaking and emerging trends in NCD prevention and management.

• Collaborate with academic partners to develop and deliver curriculum content for non-communicable disease courses.

3.6. Collaboration and Partnership Building

• Strengthen partnerships between EPHI, donnors, the academic institutions, government ministries, and international organizations to advance the NCD prevention agenda.

• Participate in multidisciplinary research initiatives and collaborative projects that address cross-cutting issues in NCD prevention and management.

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

• Build and maintain relationships with key stakeholders in the NCD field, including academic institutions, government agencies, international organizations, and NGOs.

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

4. Qualifications and Experience

4.1. Educational Background

• Public Health (PhD) with a specialized training in epidemiology, prevention and management of NCD, and policy development. The candidates should have peer reviewed publications as lead author or second/senior author.

4.2. Professional Experience

• At least 5 years of experience in NCD research, clinical management, or public health with a focus on chronic diseases.

• Strong expertise in research methodologies, including both qualitative and quantitative research with a focus on non-communicable disease and evidence-based policymaking.

• Solid understanding of NCD epidemiology, risk factors, prevention strategies, and clinical management.

• 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 NCD prevention.

Languages

• Fluency in English 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 present on a relevant NCD research topic.

7. Reporting and Supervision

The Senior Researchers will report to the Director of the Nutrition, Environmental Health, and Non-Communicable Disease Research Directorate at EPHI. Additionally, they will provide regular updates to the project coordinator and collaborate closely with international partners.

How To Apply

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

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