Public surveillance in health care is a major player in the current dynamic world of health care as far as disease control and prevention is concerned. NIH Islamabad has been on the frontline with its ambitious project titled Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response (IDSR) with Public Health Laboratory Network (PHLN) and Workforce Development to transition FELTP. The project is a major investment in the public health infrastructure in Pakistan, and it will generate thousands of jobs of various specialties.
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Industry Context: The Growing Importance of Disease Surveillance
The COVID-19 pandemic demonstrated how important efficient disease surveillance systems are. The World Health Organization claimed that countries having established the surveillance system reacted better to the pandemic and were able to contain it up to 30 percent faster. Pakistan, which realizes this crucial need, is building its national capacity with the help of an integrated approach to the NIH.
Public health surveillance is a systematic process that gathers, analyses and interpolates data on health issues to inform policies about health and the provision of public health. The goal of IDSR project is to establish an integrated network linking detecting, laboratory confirmation, and fast response networks-making a safer health environment to every Pakistani.
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Position Overview: A Diverse Range of Opportunities
NIH is hiring to fill 28 varied vacancies in various geographical locations such as Islamabad, Azad Jammu and Kashmir (AJK), and Gilgit-Baltistan (GB). These jobs cover the full range of the public health surveillance, including top management jobs and the technical support personnel.
Key Position Categories:
- Epidemiology and Surveillance Roles: Including Senior Epidemiologists, Surveillance Officers, and Program Heads who will lead disease monitoring efforts
- Laboratory Specialists: Microbiologists, Virologists, and various laboratory technicians who will provide critical diagnostic support
- Data Management Positions: Data Processing Assistants and Statistical Officers who will analyze surveillance information
- Communications Specialists: Health Education Officers who will translate scientific findings into public health messaging
- Support Staff: Including drivers, security personnel, and administrative support
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Let’s examine the specific requirements for some of the key positions:
Senior Epidemiologist (PPS-8)
This critical position needs an MBBS or equivalent with special training having a 2-year Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program (FELTP), Epidemic intelligence Service (EIS) course or Master of Field Epidemiology degree. Eight years of experience, Candidates belonging to 35-40 years of age are required with a relaxation in age of 5 years in general.
Senior Epidemiologists will spearhead regional surveillance activities, study patterns on diseases, investigate outbreaks and liaise with national and international health officials. The post is a chance to influence the policy of public health on the highest level.
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Program Head – FELTP (PPS-9)
As the head of the Field Epidemiology and Laboratory Training Program position, the position demands an MBBS or the equivalent qualification and specialized field epidemiology training and 10 years of pertinent experience. The Program Head will provide leadership in training Pakistan next generation of disease detectives, administer program resources and allay this with best practices globally.
Microbiologist/Virologist (PPS-9)
They are specialized scientific jobs, which demand MBBS or equivalent degree with post-graduate specialization (FCPS/MPhil/PhD) in microbiology or virology recognized by Pakistan Medical and Dental Council (PMDC) or Higher Education Commission (HEC). Such positions will head laboratory diagnostic work in new and endemic diseases with a technical experience of 10-15 years.
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Career Growth and Compensation
NIH positions have adopted the Pay Scale (PPS) system of Pakistan, where the pay is based on education level, experience and level of responsibility. No particular salary rates are explained in the advertisement, but we can offer approximate rates by using the present government scales.
Estimated Salary Ranges by PPS Level
| PPS Level | Position Examples | Monthly Salary Range (PKR) | Annual Salary Range (PKR) |
|---|---|---|---|
| PPS-9 | Program Head, Microbiologist/Virologist | 75,000 – 120,000 | 900,000 – 1,440,000 |
| PPS-8 | Senior Epidemiologist, Manager Statistics | 65,000 – 100,000 | 780,000 – 1,200,000 |
| PPS-7 | Surveillance Officer, Health Education Officer | 55,000 – 85,000 | 660,000 – 1,020,000 |
| PPS-6 | Data Processing Assistant, Laboratory Technologist | 45,000 – 70,000 | 540,000 – 840,000 |
| PPS-1 to PPS-5 | Support Staff | 25,000 – 45,000 | 300,000 – 540,000 |
Note: These figures are estimates based on standard government pay scales and may vary based on specific project allowances and benefits.
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Benefits and Work Environment
| Benefit Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Contract Duration | One year (extendable based on performance and project needs) |
| Work Location | NIH Islamabad, with regional positions in AJK and GB |
| Work Schedule | Standard government working hours with potential for field work |
| Career Development | Exposure to international public health practices and specialized training |
| Professional Network | Collaboration with WHO, CDC, and other global health organizations |
| Impact | Direct contribution to Pakistan’s disease prevention capacity |
NIH: Pakistan’s Premier Public Health Institution
National Institute of Health is the central public health establishment in Pakistan and operates under the Ministry of National Health Services, Regulations and Coordination. Founded in 1965, NIH is now a fully featured public health institution consisting of numerous subdivisions dealing with disease control, nutrition research, drug regulatory functions, and vaccine production.
The institute plays a crucial role in:
- Disease surveillance and outbreak investigation
- Laboratory diagnostic services
- Vaccine production and quality control
- Public health research and training
- International health regulation compliance
By introducing the IDSR project, the NIH is empowering Pakistan to respond to, detect, and prevent the threat to public health which subsequently leaves the country better equipped in controlling both health issues on routine basis as well as handling new epidemics.
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Qualification Requirements: Finding Your Fit
The IDSR project positions span multiple educational backgrounds and experience levels. Here’s a breakdown of key qualification patterns:
Medical and Public Health Specialists
- MBBS or equivalent medical degree
- Specialized training through FELTP, EIS, or master’s programs
- Experience requirements ranging from entry-level to 15+ years
Technical Specialists
- Degrees in statistics, computer science, laboratory technology
- Experience with data management, analysis, and laboratory techniques
- Specialized skills in respective technical domains
Support Staff
- Educational requirements from middle school to matriculation
- Previous work experience in similar roles preferred
- Valid certifications (like driving licenses) for specific positions
Application Process: Step-by-Step Guide
The NIH has streamlined its application process through the National Jobs Portal. Here’s how to apply:
- Access the Portal: Visit the National Jobs Portal website
- Create/Login to Account: Register if you’re a first-time user or login to your existing account
- Search for Positions: Navigate to the NIH listings and select your desired position
- Complete Application: Fill out all required fields and upload necessary documents
- Submit Within Deadline: Ensure your application is submitted within 15 days of the advertisement date
- Monitor Status: Check your application status for interview calls
Important Notes:
- Previous applicants: The previous advertisement dated 16.04.2023 has been cancelled; reapplication is necessary
- Government employees: Must apply through proper channels with No Objection Certificate (NOC)
- Documentation: Original documents must be presented during interviews
- No travel allowance: No TA/DA will be provided for test/interview attendance
- Contractual nature: Positions are project-based with no automatic regularization
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Career Prospects and Professional Development
The IDSR project at the NIH is only an immunity to a stable job, but the ability to develop a special knowledge in the field of public health, becoming appreciated in many parts of the world. FELTP component is well established internationally and graduates tend to with time ascend to leadership roles in:
- Provincial and federal health departments
- International organizations like WHO and UNICEF
- Non-governmental health organizations
- Academic and research institutions
As present studies on the public health workforce reveal, specialists in disease surveillance training are likely to see advancement in their careers 15-20 percent quicker than other medical specialties, due to the essentiality of their skills in the context of modern health security.
Conclusion: A Unique Opportunity in Public Health
Integrated Disease Surveillance and Response project by NIH serves as a milestone in building the public health infrastructure in Pakistan. These positions come with the rare benefit of competitive pay, professional development, and a sense of impact in the area of national health security amongst qualified professionals.
The initiative allows existing health professionals and those who are just starting their careers, offering a variety of roles of different qualification levels and geographical locations. This will be a sustainable system that will benefit Pakistan in future years as the project integrates surveillance, laboratory networks, and workforce to develop.
How to Move Forward
If you meet the qualifications for any of these positions, we encourage you to:
- Apply promptly through the National Jobs Portal within the 15-day window
- Prepare all required documentation in advance of potential interviews
- Research the specific functions of your target position within the disease surveillance framework
- Contact the Project Director at 051-9255850 for any clarifications
Investment in the expansion of a surveillance capacity is of utmost importance to a country with both constant and emerging health risks. Not only do these jobs provide work, but they also allow the workforce to work towards a healthier and safer Pakistan.
Frequently Asked Questions
What jobs are open at NIH Islamabad in 2025?
Vacancies include epidemiologists, surveillance officers, lab technicians, and data analysts.
Who can apply for public health jobs at NIH?
Applicants with MBBS, MPH, MSc, or relevant public health degrees can apply.
Are these contract-based or permanent jobs?
Most positions are contract-based under national health projects but may be extendable.
What is the expected salary range for these roles?
Salaries range from PKR 60,000 to PKR 200,000 depending on role and qualifications.
How to apply for NIH Islamabad jobs 2025?
Apply online through the NIH portal or submit your application as per job ad instructions.
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