We are hiring

Position:  Senior Researcher in Global Health and Public Health

Location:  Yaoundé, Cameroon

Work schedule:  Full time (40 hours per week)

Presentation of the Nkafu Policy Institute

The Nkafu Policy Institute is a non-partisan and independent think tank of the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation based in Yaoundé, Cameroon. Its mission is to advance public policies that help all Africans thrive in free, fair and sustainable economies. The Institute provides independent, thorough and insightful policy recommendations that advance the Cameroonian economy and the economies of other countries in sub-Saharan Africa and promote issues of peace and security in Africa.

Founded in 2012, the Nkafu Policy Institute is built on its high-quality independent research and innovative policy prescriptions. The Nkafu Policy Institute brings together leading analysts, experts and contributors from three continents, Africa, Europe and America, in governance and democracy; health and education; peace and security; science and technology; and economic policy.

About the Health Policy and Research Division

The delivery of health care in Cameroon faces significant challenges. Critical shortages of health personnel, lack of adequate infrastructure and the absence of credible health insurance schemes have led to a drop in demand and, consequently, an increase in morbidity and mortality. The institute’s Health Policy and Research Division seeks to address these challenges through research and policy advocacy. Current efforts are centered on delimiting access to care, in particular surgical care, the fight against non-communicable diseases and injuries.

To continue our health research activities in Cameroon, we are recruiting a full-time Senior Researcher in Global Surgery and Public Health   who will be based in Yaoundé, Cameroon

Job Overview

The Principal Investigator should be internally motivated, dedicated, have experience working in multidisciplinary teams, and have the ability to communicate with internal and external collaborators. S/he will work with a team to conduct research in global health, particularly in global surgery, advocacy and policy analysis. Learning opportunities include an introduction to global health and global surgery, as well as experience in research and public health.

Professional qualifications:

• At least a master’s degree in public health or other relevant fields. A doctorate in public health or a doctorate in medicine is preferred.
• Must have expertise in public health policy development, preferably with experience in policy analysis.
• Skills required include data collection and interpretation, development of strategic plans, and a comprehensive grasp of Cameroon’s public health policies.
• Solid research experience
• MUST be proactive and motivated
• Good computer culture.
• Interpersonal skills are also necessary, as this job involves public education, program coordination and advocacy.
• Good social media communication skills

Live

Candidates must demonstrate a demonstrated ability to mentor junior staff and communicate interim and final results to the general public. A register of peer-reviewed publications consistent with experience is expected. Work experience in the health sector (private or public sector) is also desirable.

Personal qualities:

• He/She should have strong communication (bilingual candidates preferred)  and facilitation  skills   . Advocating for changes in public policy requires a confident individual who can speak to officials or stand in front of an audience and present a convincing argument.
• He/she must have good writing skills. He is expected to write research manuscripts, articles, create press releases, newsletters, reports, posters, pamphlets and other materials.
• He/she must be creative and think outside the box.
• Other skills needed include multitasking, attention to detail, and working well independently and as part of a team.
• Experience of creativity, adaptability, personal responsibility and initiative.

Other Skills and Abilities:

• Ability to work with minimal supervision.
• Ability to take initiative and complete projects independently and on time.
• Organizational skills and efficient and orderly execution of job requirements.
• Ability to maintain a high degree of privacy and confidentiality.

Duties and Responsibilities:

Under the direct supervision of the Director of the Health Policy and Research Division of the Nkafu Policy Institute, the duties and responsibilities are as follows:

• The principal researcher will be expected to conduct research and write research articles on health care delivery in Africa. Particular emphasis will be placed on the delivery of surgical care.
• Participate in public debates related to health care policy in Cameroon, Africa and around the world.
• Produce, with the help of team members, health infographics, reports, etc. and communicate them through traditional and modern media.
• Present findings to public policy makers, service providers, community groups and news media.

Other tasks:

• Write at least one article per month for   On Policy   on issues that can contribute to the economic transformation of Cameroon and Africa in the field of global health.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

All applications must be submitted through  our online application portal  . Before applying, applicants should prepare   a CV, cover letter and writing sample   (  published journal article or draft)

All applications MUST be submitted through the  online portal below  . No applications will be accepted by email.

The position will be open until filled. Candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis until the position is filled. It is in your interest to apply early.