Deputy Director, Division of Health Policy and Research

POSITION DESCRIPTION 

Position: Deputy Director, Division of Health Policy and Research, Nkafu Policy Institute
Location: Yaoundé, Cameroon
Work Schedule: Full-Time (40 hours per week)
Organization: Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation

About the Nkafu Policy Institute

The Nkafu Policy Institute is a leading African think tank dedicated to advancing independent, evidence-based public policy solutions to promote economic growth, governance, and social development across Africa. As a flagship initiative of the Denis & Lenora Foretia Foundation, the Institute provides thought leadership in critical areas such as health policy, education, peace, security, and science and technology.

The Health Policy and Research Division focuses on addressing critical challenges in healthcare delivery, access to surgical care, prevention and management of non-communicable diseases, and injuries. The division emphasizes research, advocacy, and evidence-based policy recommendations to advance healthcare solutions in Cameroon and the broader African context.

Role Summary

The Deputy Director, Division of Health Policy and Research, will lead and support the division’s research activities and policy advocacy efforts. This role requires a leader with deep expertise in health and biomedical research, strong experience in manuscript development, grant writing, and the capacity to design and implement independent research protocols. The Deputy Director will work closely with the Director to expand the division’s impact, secure funding, and ensure the dissemination of high-quality research outputs.

Key Responsibilities

Research Leadership

• Design and lead independent health and biomedical research studies and protocols.
• Oversee data collection, analysis, and interpretation, ensuring adherence to scientific standards.
• Develop and implement innovative research methodologies and strategies to address healthcare challenges in Africa.
• Author and co-author high-quality manuscripts for publication in peer-reviewed journals and other reputable outlets.

Grant Writing and Resource Mobilization

• Identify funding opportunities from international donors, foundations, and government agencies.
• In partnership with team members, draft and submit competitive grant proposals to secure multi-year funding for health research initiatives.
• Build and maintain relationships with donors and funding partners.

Program Development and Management

• Develop and manage health research programs focused on areas such as global health, surgical care, non-communicable diseases, and health systems strengthening.
• Ensure programs are delivered on time, within budget, and achieve intended outcomes.
• Collaborate with internal and external stakeholders to align research programs with policy needs.

Policy Advocacy and Dissemination

• Translate research findings into actionable policy recommendations for governments, NGOs, and international organizations.
• Engage in public debates and forums to advocate for evidence-based health policies.
• Prepare and present reports, policy briefs, and infographics to stakeholders and policymakers.

Capacity Building and Team Management

• Supervise and mentor a team of researchers, analysts, and assistants to enhance their professional development.
• Build internal capacity in grant writing, manuscript development, and data analysis.
• Foster a collaborative and results-driven team culture.

Key Qualifications

Education

• A terminal degree (Ph.D., MD, MBBS) in Public Health, Biomedical Sciences, Medicine or a related field.
• Advanced training or certifications in health systems research, epidemiology, or related disciplines is a plus.

Experience

• At least 7–10 years of experience in health and biomedical research, with a proven ability to lead independent studies.
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals especially as first author or senior author.
• Demonstrated success in grant writing and securing significant funding for research projects.
• Experience in policy advocacy, including engaging with policymakers and stakeholders in health sectors.
• Familiarity with healthcare challenges in African contexts, including public health systems and non-communicable diseases.

Skills and Competencies

• Exceptional analytical and research skills with a focus on data-driven solutions.
• Proficiency in data analysis tools (e.g., SPSS, R, STATA) and referencing software (e.g., EndNote, Zotero).
• Strong writing and communication skills for both academic and policy-oriented audiences.
• Fluency in English required (French proficiency highly desirable).
• Excellent organizational, project management, and interpersonal skills.

Performance Metrics

• Research Outputs: Number and quality of publications, policy briefs, and advocacy materials.
• Grant Acquisition: Total funds raised and successful grant applications submitted.
• Program Impact: Measurable progress in health research initiatives and policy influence.
• Team Development: Growth and performance of team members under supervision.

Compensation and Benefits

• Salary: Competitive and commensurate with qualifications and experience.
• Incentives: Performance-based bonuses tied to grant acquisition and program outcomes.
• Benefits: CNPS contributions, health insurance, and professional development support.

 APPLICATION PROCEDURE

All applications must be submitted using our online application portal. Interested candidates should submit the following through the application portal:

1. A cover letter detailing their vision for health research and relevant experience.
2. A curriculum vitae (CV) highlighting research, grant-writing, and leadership achievements.
3. Two samples of recent publications or policy briefs.
4. Contact details for three professional references.

No application will be accepted through email. The position will be opened until filled. Candidates are encouraged to apply by December 20, 2024, for priority consideration. Applications will be reviewed on a rolling basis.