Program Officer at World Health Organization

The World Health Organization (WHO) is seeking a Program Officer for Research and Medical Countermeasures to support the implementation of regional activities related to research preparedness, vaccines, therapeutics, diagnostics, and other medical countermeasures within the WHO Health Emergencies Programme. The position will have a primary focus on supporting the regional response to the ongoing Bundibugyo virus disease (BVD) outbreak and advancing preparedness for future BVD outbreaks. The incumbent will work closely with WHO Headquarters, WHO Country Offices, Member States, research institutions, Africa CDC, donors, and implementing partners to coordinate regional activities, monitor progress, facilitate technical collaboration, and ensure timely implementation of priority actions. The WHO is a specialized agency of the United Nations responsible for international public health. It is headquartered in Geneva, Switzerland, and has six regional offices, including the African Regional Office (AFRO) which covers 47 countries in sub-Saharan Africa. The WHO has a long history of working to improve global health, and its Health Emergencies Programme is a key part of this effort. The programme works to strengthen preparedness and response capacities across the African Region by supporting research coordination, evidence generation, vaccine preparedness, knowledge management, and partner engagement. The working environment in the African Region is challenging, with many countries facing significant health system constraints, limited resources, and fragile infrastructure. However, the region is also home to a diverse range of cultures, languages, and landscapes, and offers a unique opportunity to work in a dynamic and rapidly changing environment. The cost of living in many African countries is relatively low, and the region offers a rich cultural heritage and a warm welcome to international visitors. However, the region is also prone to outbreaks of infectious diseases, and the WHO plays a critical role in supporting countries to prepare for and respond to these outbreaks.