Introduction

As the world strives to end AIDS as a public health threat by 2030, the intersection of sexual health, human rights, and evidence-based HIV prevention and care has never been more critical. In the face of persistent inequities, evolving epidemics among key populations, and the integration of HIV within universal health coverage, the demand for top-tier technical expertise to guide global policy is paramount. The announcement of the World Health Organization (WHO) Sexual Health Consultant, HIV (International) position for 2026 represents a high-impact opportunity for a leading public health expert to shape the future of the global HIV response. This is not a generalized advisory role; it is a targeted, senior consultancy tasked with providing authoritative guidance to advance WHO’s normative and technical work at the confluence of sexual health and HIV.

The World Health Organization is seeking an internationally recognized expert to serve as a key consultant to its Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes (HHS). This Sexual Health Consultant will operate at the highest level of technical strategy, focusing on the development of guidelines, tools, and approaches that integrate comprehensive sexual health within the global HIV agenda. The consultant will address complex issues such as differentiated service delivery for key populations, the integration of HIV prevention with other sexual and reproductive health services, and the advancement of rights-based, person-centred approaches in diverse epidemiological contexts.

This role is defined by its global scope and technical depth. The consultant will engage with WHO regional and country offices, partner agencies (UNAIDS, UNFPA, The Global Fund), and civil society to ensure WHO’s leadership remains at the forefront of science and equity. For a seasoned professional with a deep background in HIV and sexual health, this consultancy offers the unparalleled authority to influence global standards, shape country-level implementation, and contribute to a legacy of ending one of the most significant pandemics of our time.

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Background & Job Description

WHO is the directing and coordinating authority on international health within the United Nations system. Its Global HIV, Hepatitis and STI Programmes lead the development of evidence-based policies, strategies, and guidelines for the prevention, testing, treatment, and care of HIV, viral hepatitis, and sexually transmitted infections, with a strong focus on reaching the most vulnerable.

This 2026 international consultancy will be embedded within the HHS department, likely reporting to the Unit Head of Prevention, Testing, and Populations. The core purpose is to provide high-level technical expertise to accelerate progress towards global HIV targets, with a specific focus on strengthening the sexual health dimensions of the response. The consultant will be responsible for delivering defined outputs that advance WHO’s normative and technical agenda, ensuring alignment with the Global Health Sector Strategies (GHSS) and the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).

A consultant of this calibre directly influences the global public health architecture. By developing a new guideline on sexual well-being and HIV prevention, reviewing evidence for novel prevention technologies, or crafting a strategic framework for engaging men and boys in HIV/STI services, the consultant’s work becomes the reference standard for ministries of health and implementing partners worldwide. This role is the embodiment of translating cutting-edge science and ethical imperatives into actionable global public health policy.

Key Responsibilities & Deliverables

The consultant’s work will be governed by a detailed Terms of Reference (TOR) focused on producing high-stakes technical public goods.

Lead the Development of Global Guidelines and Tools: Serve as the lead technical writer or methodology lead for new or updated WHO guidelines related to sexual health and HIV (e.g., guidelines on self-care interventions for HIV/STIs, updates to the Consolidated Guidelines on HIV Prevention, Diagnosis, Treatment and Care for Key Populations). This includes synthesizing GRADE evidence, facilitating guideline development group meetings, and ensuring a rigorous, transparent process.
Provide Strategic Technical Analysis and Policy Advice: Conduct in-depth analyses of epidemiological trends, programmatic data, and implementation science to identify gaps and opportunities in the global HIV/sexual health response. Prepare authoritative policy briefs, technical reports, and discussion papers for senior WHO leadership and governing bodies to inform strategic decision-making.
Support Capacity Building and Knowledge Translation: Develop and deliver technical presentations, webinars, and training materials for WHO regional/country offices and partners. Translate complex guideline recommendations into practical, adaptable tools (e.g., service delivery manuals, M&E frameworks) for use in low-resource settings.
Foster Strategic Partnerships and Representation: Act as a WHO technical focal point in key partnerships, including with UNAIDS Inter-Agency Task Teams, civil society coalitions (e.g., International Planned Parenthood Federation), and research consortia. Represent WHO at international technical meetings and conferences, advocating for the integration of sexual health within the HIV response.
Review and Synthesize Scientific Evidence: Systematically review peer-reviewed literature, programmatic evaluations, and emerging research (e.g., on long-acting prevention, digital health interventions) to keep WHO guidance at the cutting edge. Prepare systematic reviews or evidence summaries to inform guideline development.
Contribute to Resource Mobilization and Reporting: Provide technical input for funding proposals to donors (The Global Fund, PEPFAR, bilateral agencies). Contribute to high-level progress reports, including reports to the World Health Assembly and UN General Assembly, on advances in sexual health and HIV.

WHO Sexual Health Consultant (HIV) 2026: Advance Global Public Health Strategy in a Pivotal Technical Leadership Role

Qualifications

Education & Certification

An advanced university degree (Master’s level or higher) in Medicine, Public Health, Epidemiology, Global Health, or a directly related field is required. A doctorate (PhD, DrPH, MD with specialization) is highly desirable and often expected for a consultancy at this level.
Formal training or certification in epidemiology, health policy, guideline development (GRADE), or sexual and reproductive health is a significant asset.

Experience

A minimum of 10-15 years of progressive international experience working on HIV and sexual/reproductive health programmes, with at least 7 years at a global or regional level.
Non-negotiable, proven expertise must include:
- Direct involvement in the development of WHO or other major global health guidelines.
- Extensive technical work with key populations most affected by HIV (e.g., gay men and other men who have sex with men, sex workers, transgender people, people who inject drugs).
- Deep understanding of HIV prevention technologies (PrEP, PEP, condoms, vaccines) and service delivery models within health systems.
Specific Experience Required:
- Proven track record of publishing technical reports, guidelines, or peer-reviewed articles in relevant fields.
- Extensive experience working with multilateral organizations, government health ministries, and civil society in low- and middle-income countries.
- Demonstrated ability to manage complex, multi-stakeholder technical processes.
Technical Competencies:
- Expertise in Epidemiology and Public Health: Mastery of epidemiological methods and programmatic data analysis.
- Superlative Writing and Synthesis Skills: Ability to produce clear, authoritative, and nuanced technical documents in English.
- Diplomacy and Cultural Competence: Skill in navigating diverse political and cultural contexts with sensitivity.
- Language Skills: Expert fluency in English is essential. Working knowledge of another UN official language (French, Spanish, Russian, Arabic, Chinese) is a major advantage.

Why Apply for This Position

Securing the WHO Sexual Health Consultant (HIV) role in 2026 is a career pinnacle for a global health technical leader. The professional influence is immense; your work will set the standard for how countries design and implement life-saving services for millions. The intellectual challenge of synthesizing the latest science, ethics, and operational realities into global policy is unmatched.

The network and visibility are global. You will collaborate with the world’s foremost researchers, programme implementers, and advocates. This consultancy solidifies your reputation as a go-to expert, leading to further advisory roles with other UN agencies, governments, and major foundations.

The impact is profound and far-reaching. The guidelines you help finalize in 2026 could shape national policies for the next decade, directly affecting access to prevention and care for the most marginalized communities. The engagement model is one of respected partnership, offering the autonomy of an expert contributor within the world’s leading health authority.

Application Tips & Insights

WHO seeks a consultant with unimpeachable technical credentials, a strong publication record, and a demonstrated commitment to equity and human rights.

Submit a Proposal that Demonstrates Technical Authority: Your application must be a detailed technical proposal responding precisely to the TOR. It should outline your proposed methodology, workplan, and demonstrate a deep understanding of WHO’s existing guidelines and strategic priorities (e.g., the GHSS on HIV, Viral Hepatitis and STIs). Cite your own relevant publications.
Highlight Direct Guideline Development Experience: In your CV and proposal, explicitly list WHO or similar guidelines you have been a named contributor to. Describe your specific role (e.g., “Lead writer for Chapter 3: Service Delivery for Adolescents,” “Methodologist for the systematic review on task-sharing”). This is a key differentiator.
Avoid Common Mistakes: The most critical error is a generic public health CV. This role requires specific HIV/sexual health and guideline expertise. Avoid overstating general management experience; emphasize deep technical leadership. Failing to demonstrate a rights-based, key population-focused approach will not align with WHO’s values.
Timeline & Process Expectations: The recruitment for a senior international consultant is thorough. After the proposal deadline, expect a lengthy technical review by a panel of WHO experts, potentially followed by a formal interview and a request for a sample of recent work. The entire process from posting to contract can take 3-5 months.
Interview Preparation: Prepare to present and defend your proposed approach to a key technical challenge outlined in the TOR. Be ready for in-depth questions on contentious issues in the field (e.g., ethical considerations for PrEP rollout to adolescents, measuring integration of services). Demonstrate your ability to navigate scientific evidence, human rights law, and operational feasibility.

Additional Information

Fee and Contractual Terms: This is an International Consultant (IC) contract. Remuneration is based on WHO’s consultant fee bands, which are competitive and reflect the seniority of the role. The fee is a daily rate, and the total contract value will be specified in the TOR. Payment is output-based, linked to milestone deliverables.
Benefits: As an IC, you are not a WHO staff member and are not eligible for employee benefits. The fee is all-inclusive. The contract may include provisions for travel, which will be arranged and paid for by WHO as per its rules.
Work Arrangement & Travel: The consultancy is likely home-based with significant international travel to WHO Headquarters (Geneva), regional offices, and for technical consultations or country support missions. The TOR will specify the expected travel percentage.
Contract Duration: The initial contract is typically for 6 to 11 months, with a strong possibility of extension based on performance and programme needs.
Application Deadline: Adhere strictly to the deadline published on the WHO careers portal. Late submissions are not considered.
Equal Opportunity Statement: WHO is committed to creating a diverse and inclusive environment. It fosters a culture based on integrity, respect, and professionalism. Applications from women and nationals of non- and under-represented member states are strongly encouraged.

How to Apply

Applications are submitted through WHO’s dedicated e-recruitment system.

Find the Vacancy:Search for “Sexual Health Consultant HIV” or similar, and filter for International Consultant positions.
Analyze the TOR: Download and scrutinize the Detailed Terms of Reference. It is the absolute guide for your proposal.
Prepare Your Proposal Package: This must include:
- A detailed Technical Proposal with methodology and workplan.
- A Financial Proposal (separate document) stating your daily fee.
- An updated Personal History Form (PHF)/CV, highlighting relevant publications.
- Samples of recent relevant work (e.g., a guideline chapter, technical report you authored).
Submit via WHO System: Complete the online profile and submit your proposal through the WHO e-Recruitment system as instructed in the vacancy.
Official Channel: Apply only through the official link on careers.who.int.
Deadline: Submit well in advance. The system can be busy on closing day.

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Frequently Asked Questions

1. Is this a clinical role or a public health/policy role?
This is unequivocally a global public health policy and technical leadership role. While a clinical background (MD, nursing) is valuable for understanding service delivery, the core function is developing normative guidance, analyzing epidemiological data, and providing strategic advice to shape programmes at a population level, not providing direct patient care.

2. How does this consultancy interact with country-level work?
The consultant’s global products (guidelines, tools) are designed for adaptation and use by WHO country offices and ministries of health. The consultant may also be asked to provide direct technical support to countries, such as reviewing national strategic plans or helping to adapt global guidelines to a specific national context, which may involve short-term missions.

3. What are the biggest contemporary challenges in this technical area that the consultant will address?
Key challenges include: Integrating HIV services into primary health care and universal health coverage pathways; addressing the stalled progress in HIV prevention among key populations; leveraging digital health for sexual health services; combating stigma and discrimination in healthcare settings; and navigating the politicization of sexual health and rights in various global forums.

4. Does WHO prefer consultants from academic institutions, NGOs, or former ministry of health officials?
WHO values a mix. Academics bring rigorous research methodology. NGO experts bring frontline implementation experience and community perspectives. Former ministry officials bring policy and systems expertise. The ideal candidate often has a blend of these experiences, demonstrating an ability to bridge evidence, practice, and policy.

5. What is the typical output/deliverable of such a consultancy?
Deliverables are concrete and high-level. Examples include: A finalized WHO guideline document ready for publication; A comprehensive technical report on the state of evidence for a new prevention intervention; A validated training curriculum for health workers on person-centred sexual health services; or A strategic framework for engaging men in HIV/STI prevention for use by regional offices.

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