The Epidemiology Fellowship Programme in the Eastern Mediterranean Region (EMR), referred to as Epi Fellows, is a specialized initiative aimed at equipping young epidemiologists from low- and middle-income countries in the region with practical skills and experience. This program operates under the Global Outbreak Alert and Response Network Strategy and is implemented collaboratively by the WHO Health Emergencies Programme (WHE) and the WHO Universal Health Coverage/Health Systems (UHS) at the regional office.

The fellowship provides an opportunity for participants to work closely with WHO country offices in their respective nations for a six-month period, with the potential for an extension of up to another six months. Its primary goal is to strengthen participants’ expertise in national, regional, and global outbreak management through direct involvement in WHO technical programs. Fellows will gain hands-on experience by engaging in projects aligned with their skill sets and the program’s objectives.

The program is designed to enhance the educational experience of emerging public health professionals by placing them in practical settings, such as ministries of health or national public health institutes. This enables participants to actively contribute to various health sector initiatives under the mentorship of experienced WHO personnel. Through this collaboration, fellows will develop valuable skills in areas such as outbreak management, health emergency response, and epidemiological research.

Under the guidance of a technical expert, fellows are assigned specific projects and responsibilities that may include conducting literature reviews, performing web-based research, analyzing and organizing data, and contributing to the creation of tools and guidelines. They may also assist in drafting reports, policy documents, and educational materials, as well as supporting the organization of events such as workshops, conferences, and meetings. Participation in ongoing departmental projects is also a key component of the fellowship.

Applicants are required to hold a postgraduate degree in public health, epidemiology, or a related field and must possess at least two years of experience in areas such as research, data analysis, or fieldwork. Familiarity with commonly used software programs, including Word, Excel, and PowerPoint, is essential, while knowledge of statistical tools like XLStat would be advantageous. Fluency in English is mandatory, and proficiency in Arabic or French is considered beneficial.

The selection process is competitive, and only candidates from specific countries in the EMR will be considered. Successful applicants will receive a monthly stipend and official travel arrangements to their designated duty station. However, they will not be eligible for appointment to a WHO position for three months following the completion of the fellowship. WHO actively promotes diversity and upholds the highest ethical standards, ensuring a workplace free from exploitation, harassment, and discrimination.

This fellowship provides a unique platform for young professionals to expand their knowledge and contribute meaningfully to global health initiatives.

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