Animal Health and AMR Specialist

Organizational Setting

The Emergency Centre for Transboundary Animal Diseases (ECTAD) of the Food and Agriculture Organization of the United Nations (FAO) is implementing the project “Immediate technical assistance for animal health systems to address emerging and priority zoonotic diseases and health threats in Myanmar” with funding from the United States Government USAID. The USAID-funded project aims to strengthen animal health systems to reduce the risks and impacts of emerging infectious diseases, antimicrobial resistance (AMR), and bio-threats through an inclusive One Health approach. ECTAD in Myanmar also implements components of regional projects that are led by the ECTAD Regional office in Bangkok (ECTAD RAP). The FAO Representation in Myanmar manages ECTAD in Myanmar operationally; the ECTAD Regional office in Bangkok provides technical oversight and management. ECTAD in Myanmar implements national and regional projects.

Reporting Lines

The incumbent will work under the overall guidance of FAO Representative in Myanmar, direct supervision of the ECTAD in Myanmar Country Team Leader, and National Technical Advisor, technical guidance from the ECTAD Regional Manager based in FAO ECTAD RAP, in close collaboration with the ECTAD team members at country, regional and global levels, and other private sector stakeholders and implementing partners.

Technical Focus

Disease management, lab experience, AMR/AMU surveillance and awareness

Tasks and responsibilities

• Assess control practices and disease preparedness for transboundary and priority zoonotic diseases and other health threats in Myanmar, including avian influenza (AI);
• Lead the design of and planning for FAO-ECTAD surveillance activities including field studies to update risks of transboundary and priority zoonotic diseases and health threats in Myanmar;
• Assist in managing animal population, disease outbreak, surveillance and disease risk data; and serve as a focal person to provide relevant updates on transboundary animal diseases situation and related control measures to RAP based on request;
• Assist the CTL/National Technical Adviser to identify and describe technical specifications for equipment/supplies used for surveillance field work and sample testing;
• In collaboration and coordination with other international and national consultants,
a) Identify high risk zones where disease prevention and control activities should be prioritized;
b) Develop information, education and communication materials;
c) Strengthen linkages with stakeholders from private sector, human health sector and wildlife/environment sector;
d) Organize training and awareness campaigns on topics such as good animal husbandry practices (GAHP), disease prevention and management, good manufacturing practice (GMP), and food safety under one health approach;
e) Revise AMR/AMU surveillance plan as required, conduct AMR/AMU surveillance, enhance AMR awareness, and assist AMR related activities.
• Make recommendations for strategies that help to prevent and control transboundary and priority zoonotic diseases and health threats in Myanmar;
• Prepare concept notes and technical reports as required, particularly on surveillance activities;
• Carry out related duties as required.

CANDIDATES WILL BE ASSESSED AGAINST THE FOLLOWING

Minimum Requirements

• University degree in veterinary science, or related field
• At least five years of relevant field, with disease management or lab experience, and with at least one year of AMR/AMU surveillance and awareness experience.
• Working knowledge of English
• National of Myanmar

FAO Core Competencies

• Results Focus
• Teamwork
• Communication
• Building Effective Relationships
• Knowledge Sharing and Continuous Improvement

Selection Criteria

• Fluency in spoken and written Myanmar/Burmese and English
• Proficiency in MS Office
• Willingness and ability to travel to remote, rural locations
• Team player
• Relevant advanced degree is preferable
• Familiarity and proficiency in animal disease management and AMR activities
• Extent of relevant experience with internationally funded projects

ADDITIONAL INFORMATION