Consultant - Research and Publication

Deliverables

• Support the establishment of the WHO AFRO journal in the provided timelines 
• Assist to finalize the agreement with BMJ
• Help to establish the editorial board 
• Coordinate the official launching of the journal at the 76th session of the WHO Regional Committee for Africa in August 2026
• Support work related to research governance both in WHO AFRO and in Member States
• Provide support in other areas of the Research Unit

Educational Qualifications

    Essential: Master’s degree in areas related to health research, public health or social sciences.
    Desirable: Certification in publishing, research ethics, bioethics, health research governance or research methodology.

Experience

    Essential: At least 7 years’ experience in health research, research systems  
    Desirable: Experience with scientific publishing, editorial processes, and managing peer-reviewed journals in a regional or international context.

Skills and competencies

• Strong functional knowledge of health research systems, research governance, and ethical review processes for research involving human participants.
• Expertise in scientific writing, editorial standards and peer-reviewed journals management. 
• Familiarity with WHO or UN research governance frameworks, publication policies, or digital publishing platforms.
• Ability to engage and communicate effectively and diplomatically with external partners including Ministries of Health, donor institutions, Civil Society, and other stakeholders.
• Experience in coordinating multi-stakeholder research initiatives, organizing committees, and providing training or mentorship in ethics and publication
•  practices.

Languages

• Essential: Expert knowledge of spoken and written English. 
• Desirable: Working knowledge of French or another UN official language is an advantage.