Application Guide

How to Apply for Infectious Disease Surveillance Advisor - Peru, Strengthening Infectious disease Detection Systems, Epidemic Preparedness & Response

at Path

🏢 About Path

PATH is a global nonprofit dedicated to health equity, with a strong focus on innovative solutions for infectious diseases. Working here means joining a mission-driven team that collaborates with governments and local partners to create lasting impact in disease surveillance and epidemic preparedness.

About This Role

This role involves leading infectious disease surveillance activities in Peru to strengthen detection systems, supporting epidemic preparedness through data analysis and stakeholder engagement, and collaborating with local health authorities to improve disease monitoring. It's impactful because it directly enhances Peru's ability to detect and respond to outbreaks, saving lives.

💡 A Day in the Life

A typical day might start with a virtual check-in with the Ministry of Health to review weekly surveillance data, followed by analyzing trends and preparing a brief for stakeholders. Afternoon could involve training local health workers on a new reporting tool or drafting a report on epidemic preparedness gaps.

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🎯 Who Path Is Looking For

  • An advanced degree in public health, epidemiology, or a related field, with at least 5 years of experience in infectious disease surveillance and epidemic preparedness.
  • Deep knowledge of the Peruvian health system, including familiarity with local health authorities and reporting structures.
  • Proficiency in Spanish (fluent or native) and professional English, enabling effective communication with local stakeholders and international teams.
  • Strong analytical skills with experience in data analysis for disease trends, and ability to translate data into actionable recommendations for policymakers.

📝 Tips for Applying to Path

1

Tailor your resume to highlight specific experience with disease surveillance systems in low- or middle-income countries, especially in Latin America.

2

Emphasize your knowledge of Peru's health system and any previous work with Peruvian health authorities or NGOs.

3

Showcase your Spanish proficiency by submitting a cover letter or writing sample in Spanish.

4

Provide concrete examples of how you've used data analysis to inform epidemic response or improve surveillance.

5

Mention any experience with electronic surveillance systems (e.g., DHIS2, Go.Data) and how you've trained others on them.

✉️ What to Emphasize in Your Cover Letter

['Your commitment to global health equity and experience working in resource-limited settings.', 'Specific examples of leading surveillance strengthening or epidemic preparedness initiatives.', "Your understanding of Peru's unique epidemiological challenges (e.g., dengue, Zika, tuberculosis) and how you've addressed similar issues.", 'How you build trust and collaborate with local health authorities and stakeholders.']

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🔍 Research Before Applying

To stand out, make sure you've researched:

  • → Review PATH's current projects in Peru and Latin America, especially in infectious disease surveillance and health systems strengthening.
  • → Read about Peru's National Health Strategy for Disease Surveillance and recent outbreaks (e.g., COVID-19, dengue).
  • → Familiarize yourself with the Peruvian Ministry of Health's organizational structure and key officials in disease surveillance.
  • → Look into PATH's funding sources and partners in the region, such as USAID, CDC, or the Gates Foundation.

💬 Prepare for These Interview Topics

Based on this role, you may be asked about:

1 Describe a time you improved a disease surveillance system in a low-resource setting. What challenges did you face and how did you overcome them?
2 How would you assess the current state of infectious disease surveillance in Peru and prioritize areas for improvement?
3 Can you give an example of a successful collaboration with a local health authority to enhance epidemic preparedness?
4 How do you ensure data quality and timeliness in surveillance systems, especially in remote areas?
5 What is your experience with outbreak investigations, and how do you communicate findings to non-technical stakeholders?
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⚠️ Common Mistakes to Avoid

  • Failing to demonstrate specific knowledge of Peru's health system or Spanish proficiency.
  • Submitting a generic cover letter that doesn't address PATH's mission or the role's focus on surveillance strengthening.
  • Overlooking the importance of stakeholder engagement and only emphasizing technical skills.

📅 Application Timeline

This position is open until filled. However, we recommend applying as soon as possible as roles at mission-driven organizations tend to fill quickly.

Typical hiring timeline:

1

Application Review

1-2 weeks

2

Initial Screening

Phone call or written assessment

3

Interviews

1-2 rounds, usually virtual

✓

Offer

Congratulations!

Ready to Apply?

Good luck with your application to Path!

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