SENIOR LECTURER (EPIDEMIOLOGY & PUBLIC HEALTH) – Ium 36 views

A PhD in Epidemiology, Public Health, or a closely related field is mandatory, along with a strong record of peer-reviewed publications and teaching experience at university level. Registration with the Namibian Qualifications Authority (NQA) and recognition of foreign qualifications through NQA assessment may be required if trained abroad.

Daily responsibilities include delivering lectures and tutorials on epidemiological methods, biostatistics, and public health policy to undergraduate and postgraduate students, supervising research projects, and contributing to curriculum development aligned with Namibia’s National Health Policy and Ministry of Health and Social Services priorities. Administrative duties such as committee participation and community engagement—especially with regional health directorates—are also routine.

Namibian academia values collegiality, respect for seniority, and responsiveness to national development goals—particularly those outlined in Vision 2030 and the Harambee Prosperity Plan. Punctuality, formal communication with leadership, and active involvement in community-based public health initiatives are widely expected and often inform performance reviews.

Progression typically leads to roles such as Associate Professor or Professor, contingent on sustained research output, successful grant acquisition (e.g., from NHA or WHO-AFRO), and leadership in academic programmes. Some move into advisory positions with the Ministry of Health and Social Services, the Namibia Institute of Pathology, or regional health training hubs—especially with demonstrated alignment to national disease surveillance and health systems strengthening priorities.

Permanent academic staff are generally enrolled in the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) and entitled to 30 working days’ annual leave, 10 days’ sick leave per year, and maternity/paternity leave per the Labour Act. Medical aid is usually provided through a government-approved scheme, though coverage levels depend on institutional policy and individual contribution arrangements.

Applications must be submitted via the official IUM recruitment portal or email as specified in the vacancy notice, including certified academic transcripts, a detailed CV highlighting Namibia-relevant research or service, and evidence of teaching effectiveness. Employers prioritise candidates with demonstrable experience in local disease burden contexts (e.g., HIV/TB, NCDs), familiarity with Namibia’s health information system (DHIS2), and commitment to capacity-building in underserved regions.