Animal Influenza; OFFLU Specialist

Position: Animal Influenza (OFFLU) Specialist
Job Overview
Consultant in the One Health and Disease Control Branch (NSAH-CJW) focusing on Avian Influenza surveillance and support for the OFFLU (WOAH/FAO Network of Expertise on Animal Influenza) activities. Assigned to Italy‑Rome for 11 months with possible renewal.

Key Responsibilities

Scientific coordination and technical support for OFFLU activities, including implementation of work plans and review of strategic frameworks.
Identification of research gaps, promotion of innovation, and provision of technical input to global initiatives on animal influenza such as Tripartite/Quadripartite processes.
Strengthening laboratory capacity and molecular surveillance for influenza and emerging pathogens.
Data analysis, bioinformatics and surveillance: collection and analysis of genetic, antigenic and epidemiological influenza data; bioinformatics, phylogenetics and interpretation of molecular markers; development of data‑sharing mechanisms and modules within EMPRES‑i.
Global coordination and partnership: coordination of OFFLU technical groups, liaison with reference laboratories and partners, facilitation of information sharing across regional networks, and strengthening collaboration with international partners including WOAH, WHO and research institutions.
Vaccine composition and risk assessment: contribution to WHO Influenza Vaccine Composition Meetings, advanced analysis of genetic and antigenic data, and development of an animal health vaccine composition process.
Knowledge products and communication: drafting scientific publications, reports, statements and policy documents; development of communication materials and OFFLU web content; updating technical guidelines.
Perform other related duties as required.

Qualifications

Advanced university degree in veterinary or biological sciences recognized by the International Association of Universities (IAU)/UNESCO, with post‑graduate training or experience in virology, laboratory diagnostics and bioinformatics focused on animal influenza viruses.
Relevant experience in animal influenza, epidemiology networks, molecular epidemiology, bioinformatics or related fields; experience with international organizations or scientific networks.
At least 1 year (Category

C), 5 years (Category

B) or 10 years (Category

A) of relevant professional experience in bioinformatics and molecular epidemiology.
Working knowledge of English (level

C); knowledge of a second FAO language is an asset.

Technical / Functional Skills

Strong demonstrable expertise in bioinformatics or molecular epidemiology.
Extensive experience in analysing and interpreting genomic and antigenic data.
Experience coordinating multi‑partner scientific networks and processes.
Strong communication skills for scientific and policy‑oriented outputs.
Ability to work independently and as part of a team and meet deadlines.

Core Competencies

Integrity, professionalism and commitment to FAO values.
Capacity to operate in a multicultural environment.
Proactivity and continuous learning.

Selection Criteria

Alignment with the above qualifications, skills and competencies.

EEO Statement

FAO is committed to achieving workforce diversity in terms of gender, nationality, background and culture.
Qualified female applicants, qualified nationals of non‑and under‑represented Members and persons with disabilities are encouraged to apply.
All candidates will be treated with strict confidentiality, undergo reference and background checks, and are subject to FAO’s zero‑tolerance policy regarding unethical conduct.

Additional Information

FAO does not charge any fee at any stage of the recruitment process.
Appointments are subject to medical fitness, accreditation, visa and security clearances.
All selected candidates must comply with FAO values of Commitment, Respect and Integrity.

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