Reference: WPRO/2020-05/DSi-DIA/TN192002 Beneficiary country(ies): Philippines Registration level: Basic Published on: 24-Apr-2020
Deadline on: 15-May-2020 15:00 (GMT 8.00) Beijing, Perth, Singapore, Hong Kong
Background
Effective response to the COVID-19 epidemic requires scientific evidence tailored to the local context. The West Africa Ebola virus epidemic (2013–2016) is a key example of how understanding the epidemiological models of disease spread alone is not sufficient to effectively and efficiently respond to an epidemic. High risk behaviours linked to adherence to ancestral funeral and burial practices are thought to have accounted for as much as 80% of Ebola cases in Sierra Leone as of November 2015 (WHO, 2015), demonstrating the importance of understanding social and economic determinants of health at the local context. A better understanding of local factors along with universal human behaviour more broadly is necessary to ensure interventions for COVID-19 are effective in the local context, and to mitigate possible negative impact to communities and individuals. Further, research can support more effective engagement and empowerment of communities, with particular attention to vulnerable groups.
In addition, rapid operational research is needed to help health systems respond effectively during the ongoing pandemic. With the potential for multiple waves there are valuable lessons to be learnt from the organisation and management of health systems that could be used to continually improve the management and care of patients in subsequent waves of infection. Some of the key questions include at what stage should health care facilities reorganise their patient flows and service delivery models? If resources are limited what are the necessary actions that enable a health system to cope with surges in demand? What is the most effective way to manage essential services to prevent a surge in non-COVID mortality and morbidity?
While evidence sharing is critical for epidemic response, a lot of the evidence related to non-pharmaceutical interventions (NPI) and health systems will inevitably be context-specific. Countries should be empowered to prioritize research and be supported in carrying out rapid and ethical research. In addition to supporting the undertaking of research, establishing and maintaining a rapid feedback loop is essential to facilitate the early and effective adoption of relevant findings.
Purpose/Specific Objective of the Activity
To ensure countries are enabled to carry out non-pharmaceutical implementation research in areas critical to the COVID-19 response with the aim of augmenting evidence for revising and directing response activities.
Method(s) to carry out the activity
Output 1: Supporting the day-to-day running of the non-pharmaceutical interventions informal expert groups
Deliverables:
- Complete a 12-month project plan.
- Support the execution of the project according to the project plan.
- Scope out areas of interest for research.
- Monitor the progress of the project and identify adjustments as necessary to ensure the successful completion of the project.
Output 2: Communication with stakeholders
Deliverables:
- Develop formats for the feedback of activities and findings to a range of stakeholders in the Region.
- Support the publication of research findings where needed.
- Develop short updates, reports and presentations for senior management.
Education/Qualifications
University degree in medicine, business management or other relevant degree in social or natural sciences.
Desirable: Master’s degree or above in management, business administration and/or public health.
Experience
At least seven years’ experience in positions in public health and/or health research including some experience within an international context. Experience in conducting qualitative research in a variety of cultural contexts. Experience in project management and coordination. Experience in grant writing.
Technical skills and knowledge
Excellent in report writing and data analysis. Good knowledge of the dynamics of the international public health work. Demonstrated ability to communicate research findings through a variety of media. Excellent communication skills (oral and written).
Languages
Excellent knowledge of spoken and written English is essential. Working knowledge of other UN languages is an advantage
Additional information:
WHO will review all the proposals and take the best proposal, based on the prevailing industry rates
Competencies
- Able to complete the task in the given time frame
- Producing results
- Communication
- Teamwork
- Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
Please submit following documents to the Supply Officer (WPRO) at ********** by 15 May 2020. (Subject: Tender Notice 192002)
- Expression of interest (cover letter)
- Proposed fee and timelines
- Portfolio and samples of work
- WHO personal history form or CV
- Please note that the application may be closed before the indicated closing date if a sufficient number of applications are received
- Only the successful candidates will be contacted
