Application Guide
How to Apply for External Epidemiology Expert (NCD Surveillance)
at Institute for University Co-operation
🏢 About Institute for University Co-operation
The Institute for University Co-operation (ICU) specializes in EU-funded international development projects, with a strong focus on health system strengthening in the Mediterranean region. Working here offers the chance to directly impact public health in Tunisia, Lebanon, and Türkiye through data-driven interventions and cross-country collaboration.
About This Role
As an External Epidemiology Expert, you will lead efforts to enhance NCD surveillance and optimize Health Information Management Systems across three countries. Your work will directly support the Active Patient Care Model (APCM), ensuring routine health data is used effectively for monitoring and evaluation, ultimately improving patient outcomes for non-communicable diseases.
💡 A Day in the Life
Your day might start with a virtual check-in with partners in Tunisia to review HIMS data quality, followed by analyzing NCD surveillance reports for Lebanon. Afternoon could involve preparing a monitoring framework for the APCM in Türkiye and drafting recommendations for system improvements, all while coordinating across time zones via email and video calls.
🚀 Application Tools
🎯 Who Institute for University Co-operation Is Looking For
- An epidemiologist with at least 5 years of experience in NCD surveillance, preferably in low- or middle-income settings.
- Proven expertise in Health Information Management Systems (HIMS), including data quality assessment and system strengthening.
- Strong cross-cultural communication skills and experience coordinating with partners in Tunisia, Lebanon, and Türkiye.
- Familiarity with EU-funded project frameworks and results-based management approaches.
📝 Tips for Applying to Institute for University Co-operation
Tailor your CV to highlight specific NCD surveillance projects and HIMS improvements, using metrics where possible.
In your cover letter, explicitly connect your experience to the three target countries (Tunisia, Lebanon, Türkiye) and the APCM model.
Demonstrate knowledge of the Mediterranean region's health challenges and EU health cooperation policies.
Provide examples of working remotely with international teams, as this role is fully remote.
If possible, mention any experience with the European Commission's project cycle management or similar donors.
✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter
['Your expertise in NCD surveillance and HIMS, with concrete examples of system improvements.', 'Your ability to coordinate across multiple countries and cultures, especially in the Mediterranean.', 'Your understanding of the Active Patient Care Model and how data can drive its implementation.', "Your commitment to international development and health equity, aligned with ICU's mission."]
Generate Cover Letter →🔍 Research Before Applying
To stand out, make sure you've researched:
- → ICU's past and current projects in the Mediterranean, especially in Tunisia, Lebanon, and Türkiye.
- → The Active Patient Care Model (APCM) and its implementation in similar contexts.
- → The specific Health Information Management Systems used in each target country (e.g., DHIS2, national registries).
- → EU health cooperation frameworks and the European Commission's approach to NCDs in the region.
💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics
Based on this role, you may be asked about:
⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Submitting a generic application without referencing the specific countries or APCM model.
- Overlooking the remote work aspect; failing to demonstrate experience with virtual coordination.
- Focusing only on clinical epidemiology without emphasizing health information systems and data use.
📅 Application Timeline
⏰ Deadline: August 31, 2026
We recommend applying at least a few days early to avoid last-minute technical issues.
Typical hiring timeline:
Application Review
1-2 weeks
Initial Screening
Phone call or written assessment
Interviews
1-2 rounds, usually virtual
Offer
Congratulations!
Ready to Apply?
Good luck with your application to Institute for University Co-operation!