Internship

Internship – Mapping and assessing dataset for Rapid Risk Assessment in animal health emergencies – Epidemic Intelligence, Data Integration Department – WOAH HQ – Paris, France

Paris, France
Internship – Epidemic Intelligence- Data Integration Department
Context
The World Organisation for Animal Health (WOAH – founded as OIE) is a leading intergovernmental organisation representing 183 Members worldwide. Through its activities, WOAH makes a decisive contribution to improving animal health, protecting animal welfare and strengthening Veterinary Services. The Organisation provides transparent information on world’s animal health situation, and promotes international standards, particularly in terms of the safety of trade in live animals and animal products. More information can be found on WOAH’s website Joining WOAH means taking part in the development of one of the leading international organisations, recognised and associated with other multilateral institutions, in the field of worldwide health. It means helping to build a global approach to health, combining animal and human health in a “One Health” approach. It means joining teams motivated by the impact of their actions, the sense of their collective commitment and their recognised professionalism in their respective fields of expertise. 
WOAH’s headquarters are based in Paris. The Organisation is present on every continent through 13 Regional or Sub-regional Representations. WOAH has 250 staff members, two-thirds of whom are based at headquarters. This position is located in Paris, France
Mission of Data Integration Department (DID) is to enhance WOAH’s decision-making capabilities by analysing data from diverse sources, both internal and external, providing a comprehensive view for both internal stakeholders within the Organisation and its stakeholders including Members and partners. WOAH has established a Observatory to progressively monitor, identify and analyse challenges faced by Members enables WOAH to improve the standard setting process, ensure that standards remain relevant and fit for purpose, and to develop a more strategic focus to its capacity building activities. 
The DID is also mandated to regularly analyse provide epidemiological analysis to produce global animal disease situation reports (for HPAI and ASF as an example) and to lead the implementation of WOAH’s epidemic intelligence framework (internal decision paper), as well as contributing to a more data-driven decision-making of the Organisation by leading Data Management Working Group and WOAH survey coordination (internal mechanisms).Assessing the quality and suitability of datasets used in Rapid Risk Assessment (RRA) is a fundamental component of WOAH’s epidemic intelligence framework and it is linked to WOAH Incidence Management System. With the increasing availability of animal health data sources, critically evaluating and selecting datasets for completeness, accuracy, timeliness, and relevance is essential to ensure that RRAs are robust, credible, and actionable.
In this context the Data Integration Department is offering a Master thesis project for a motivated student interested in global animal health data, analytics, and policy. The project will require the student to be available on-site in Paris, France. Based at WOAH’s headquarters in the historical centre of Paris, the student will benefit from a truly international environment, close supervision by WOAH experts, and exposure to a wide professional network of scientists, policy-makers, and partner organisations. These projects offer an exceptional opportunity to gain hands-on experience at the interface of science, data, and global policy, while contributing to work with tangible global impact
Job Description
Positioning and reporting
Under the authority of the WOAH’s Deputy Director General (International Standards and Science), and the direct supervision of the Head of the Data Integration Department (DID) with functional reporting to the scientific Officer.
Intership purpose: Master thesis project – Mapping and assessing dataset for Rapid Risk Assessment in animal health emergencies
The purpose of this internship is to contribute to strengthening WOAH Incident Management System (IMS) by mapping datasets and exploring methods and criteria for dataset assessment, with a focus on supporting early warning and response to transboundary animal diseases.  
Missions and activities
– Map relevant datasets to support WOAH’s Information Management System (IMS).
– Explore assessment methods and criteria for evaluating dataset quality and relevance.
– Focus on early warning and response mechanisms for transboundary animal diseases.  
Requirements
Qualifications and Experience
Minimum Required qualifications
Master level (or equivalent) in data science. Alternatively in veterinary sciences, life science, international affairs, public health, agricultural science with formal training or experience in data science.

Expected Skills
Technical skills:
– Analysis and problem solving.
– Good working knowledge of Microsoft Office, such as Excel, Word and PowerPoint
– Excellent knowledge of English, both spoken and written.
– Basic knowledge of epidemiology and epidemic intelligence principles  .
– R or python intermediate level.

Interpersonal skills:
– Ability to work in an agile way and deliver at pace.
– Organisation skills and ability to meet deadlines.
– Team player who can integrate well into the department and is willing to commit to supporting the development of Observatory outputs  
Additional Information
Working conditions
The post is a full-time position based at the WOAH Headquarters in Paris. It requires long hours in a seated position at a computer.
Salary: 800 euros/Month
Duration: 4 to6 months- Starting date flexible from December 2025 to October 2026  
General Information    
WOAH places high value on a multicultural and positive work environment. WOAH is an equal opportunity employer and welcomes all qualified candidates, irrespective of their origin, gender, opinions or beliefs.  If you are interested in the position, please complete your application online at the latest by December 20th, 2025.                                             
APPLY HERE