Epidemiologists

MSF epidemiologists operate in areas potentially at risk of epidemics such as cholera or measles. They cooperate with the team on medical projects, support the establishment of early warning systems in areas with potential epidemics and provide disease monitoring training to local staff.

The team in Kailahun, Sierra Leone - September 2014
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Responsibilities

  • Collection of epidemiological data (including active case finding) during the spread of the disease, establishing relevant indicators, ensuring relevant data are up to date.
  • Establishment and maintenance of a system to monitor epidemiological trends of major diseases in a specific area.
  • Development of a research protocol and pilot testing to ensure targets are met where standard protocols are not available or not applicable.
  • Management of the project epidemiology team, ensuring proper use of epidemiological software tools.
  • Training of the multiprofessional team involved in activities on relevant aspects of epidemiology (physicians, health education specialists, etc.). 
  • Preparation and adaptation of routine documentation as needed in coordination with the medical team (examination forms, training materials, applications/notifications, locally relevant consent forms).

 Requirements

  • Bachelor’s or master’s degree in epidemiology OR master’s degree in public health and extensive experience in epidemiology.
  • Minimum 2 years relevant experience since graduation.
  • Ability to design and implement disease and epidemic monitoring systems, including mortality and nutrition mapping.
  • Ability to design and carry out quantitative and qualitative epidemiological research.
  • Practical knowledge of database management and software for epidemiological and statistical analysis (Microsoft Excel and at least one statistical program).
  • Strong knowledge of English.
  • Ability to work on assignment for a period of at least 6 to 12 months.
  • General requirements for all professions also apply.

Desirable

  • Experience in medicine or biomedicine
  • Training in tropical diseases
  • Knowledge of malnutrition, vaccination, reproductive health, antibiotic resistance
  • Field work experience