Technical Officer – Collaborative Registration Procedure

Host entity: WHO

Volunteer type: International

Areas of expertise: Pharmacy and other allied health professions

Application deadline: 17/08/2026

Mission and objectives

To promote health, keep the world safe and serve the vulnerable, with measurable impact for people at country level. The organization’s strategic priorities are to ensure healthy lives and well-being for all at all ages: achieving universal health coverage, addressing health emergencies and promoting healthier populations.

Assignment context

Support Member States in activities related to facilitated product introduction mechanisms though reliance, in particular the Collaborative Registration Procedure (CRP) and support Member States and Regional Economic Communities through the regulatory harmonization initiatives, to build capacity of the marketing authorization function and assessment of marketing authorization applications according to WHO and international standards.

Task description

Under the supervision of the World Health Organization (WHO) Representative, the volunteer will undertake the following tasks:

1. Support the national regulatory authorities (NRAs) in the region with the implementation of reliance and WHO Collaborative Registration Procedure (CRP) in collaboration with WHO Headquarters (WHO HQ)/Regulatory Procedures and Quality (RPQ) REG
• Provide technical support to countries for efficient implementation of reliance mechanisms and WHO Collaborative Registration Procedure.
• Reply to requests from the NRAs regarding any technical questions on the evaluation or the good manufacturing practices status for a specific product and liaise with WHO HQ, as necessary.
• Facilitate and support the WHO HQ Special Access Programme for training and any needed guidance for countries.
• Support CRP-participating NRAs in the development, revision, and updating of policies, regulations, guidelines, and tools to support facilitated product introduction pathways and CRP implementation, in collaboration with WHO HQ.

2. Follow-up CRP submissions for the countries in the region and assist NRAs with any questions
• Ensure the day-to-day running of CRP with the NRAs in the region.
• For each application, check and confirm with the NRA if they want to use CRP for the specific application.
• Follow up on CRP timelines for applications in the region. Help in collecting metrics and statistics of CRP in the region.
• Keep the electronic prequalification system (ePQS) up to date for the CRP submissions in the region and support publication of CRP metrics and information.
• Inform WHO HQ of any challenges or difficulties requiring additional support for CRP implementation.

3. Support country reach-out for CRP in the region
• In collaboration with WHO HQ and the relevant country office, arrange outreach to new countries not currently participating in WHO CRP.
• Facilitate and support the WHO HQ Special Access Programme for dedicated country or regional advocacy workshops on reliance and CRP.

4. Support to regional joint assessments and other joint activities
• Provide technical support, in collaboration with WHO HQ, for dedicated regional joint assessments or other joint activities.
• Help in collecting metrics and statistics of joint assessments or other joint activities in the region.

5. Support with Global Health Products procedures and involvement of NRAs in the region
• Support activities for global health product procedures such as EU-M4all with the European Medicines Agency (EMA), or Swissmedic Marketing Authorization for Global Health products including involvement of experts from the NRAs in the region.

6. Support the NRAs in the region to build capacity for the marketing authorization function and assessment of marketing authorization applications
• In accordance with WHO’s regulatory system strengthening programme, the WHO Global Benchmarking Tool, and the Institutional Development Plans developed, support NRAs in the region to develop and strengthen the marketing authorization function and build capacity for assessment of marketing authorization applications in accordance with international standards.
• In collaboration with WHO HQ, support the design and implementation of training on abridged reviews and product verification by NRAs participating in CRP and other facilitated pathways.
• Provide technical support to Member States.

7. Take the lead in coordinating and engaging relevant technical experts, as required, to support the effective implementation of planned activities

Skills and experience

Experience
• At least seven years of professional experience working in the area of regulation of medical products, acquired by working in a National Regulatory Authority (NRA ), a pharmaceutical/biological manufacturer, or other relevant institution. At least five years of experience in the marketing authorization regulatory function.
• Proven familiarity with regulatory facilitated pathways and mechanisms, including World Health Organization (WHO ) Collaborative Registration Procedures (CRP).
• Experience in organizing, facilitating, and conducting meetings, workshops, trainings, or other regulatory capacity-building activities.
• Experience in preparing written reports, communication materials, and other documents in English.

Skills and knowledge
• Proven ability to handle projects and sound knowledge in global health matters.
• Good organizational skills.
• A proven ability to communicate and work in diverse cultural settings, to edit regulatory documents, and to contribute to achieving agreements among different stakeholders on regulatory matters for medical products.
• Computer proficiency beyond the basics, particularly in office software such as Excel, Word, and PowerPoint.

Competencies and values

- Teamwork
- Respecting and promoting individual and cultural differences
- Communication
- Producing results
- Ensuring the effective use of resources

Living conditions

Kigali, Rwanda’s capital, has experienced remarkable rejuvenation and stability, reflected in its modern infrastructure, safe environment, and well-organized transport system. While motorcycle taxis are the fastest option, standard taxis, public buses with prepaid cards, and rental cars offer safer alternatives. The city boasts well-maintained roads with minimal congestion. Accommodation and recreational facilities are readily available, alongside diverse shopping options for imported goods and essentials. Kigali has both public and private healthcare facilities, with major hospitals like King Faisal Hospital and Legacy Clinic offering comprehensive services and accepting CIGNA insurance. The city is exceptionally safe, with emergency services accessible via 999 for police, 111 for firefighters, and 112 for general emergencies. The city offers a stable environment with a growing international community and good working conditions for UN personnel.

Visa process:
Rwanda facilitates a straightforward visa process for international visitors:
Visa on Arrival: Nationals of all countries can obtain a visa on arrival at Kigali International Airport and all land borders, valid for 30 days. Citizens of African Union, Commonwealth, and La Francophonie member states receive this visa free of charge for visits up to 30 days. Fur-ther details on the visa requirements to Rwanda can be obtained from this link. Visit Rwanda

Online Application (e-Visa): Travelers preferring to secure a visa before arrival can apply online through the IremboGov portal. The processing time is approximately 7 days, and fees vary based on the visa type. For more details refer to this link. Irembo Support

Visa Application Requirements:
1) A passport valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry.
2) A recent passport-sized photograph.
3) Completed visa application form.
4) Proof of accommodation or invitation letter.
5) Return or onward travel ticket.

Important Considerations:
1) Visa fees and processing times vary depending on nationality and visa categories.
2) It's advisable to check the latest visa requirements before travel, as regulations may change.
3) Ensure all required documents are prepared to support a smooth application process.
For the most up to date information, consult the Rwanda Directorate General of Immigration and Emigration or the nearest Rwandan embassy or consulate.

Full eligibility requirements, conditions of service and application instructions are available on the official UNV platform.