Helen Keller International
NGO / INGO / Development Projects

Helen Keller International is a non-profit organization with a vision of a world where no one is deprived of the opportunity to live a healthy life and reach their true potential. Co-founded in 1915 by Helen Keller and George Kessler, our work includes support to grow and eat nutritious food, stave off malnutrition, build strong immune systems, access life-saving medical treatments, and prevent and treat blindness and vision loss for over 80 million people in 20 countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, and the United States.

Helen Keller has been operating in Nepal since 1988, initially focusing on eye care and Vitamin A supplementation, but has since expanded to include maternal and child health and nutrition, nutrition behavior change, and nutrition-sensitive agriculture, among other sectors. We aim to tackle malnutrition and food insecurity in vulnerable communities by building local capacity and ownership; leveraging on strong monitoring, evaluation, and research systems; and advocating for national policies.

In response to the changing development landscape across the globe, Helen Keller has undergone a significant transformation. Formerly, the organization’s strategic focus was divided into three areas: nutrition, health, and neglected tropical diseases. We have now a two-pillar approach that prioritizes the food system and health systems and aims to create more impactful and resilient programs.

The organization is a pioneer in implementing integrated nutrition programs such as Suaahara I & II, Action Against Malnutrition through Agriculture (AAMA), and Sustainable Action for Resilience and Food Security (SABAL).

Consultant – Pharmacologist

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Helen Keller Intl. is an International Non-Governmental Organization (INGO) working in health and nutrition in Nepal since 1988 to improve the nutritional status of women and young children through evidence-based research and programs. The National List of Essential Medicines (NLEM) is a key component of Nepal’s healthcare system, ensuring access to affordable, quality medicines at all levels of care. In line with the WHO Model List, Nepal has implemented the NLEM since 1986, with updates in 1992, 1997, 2002, 2011, 2016, and 2021, based on clinical evidence, cost- effectiveness, and public health priorities. To address evolving health needs, Helen Keller Intl., in collaboration with the Ministry of Health and Population (Department of Drug Administration), is supporting the revision of NEML 2025. This evidence-based, consultative process engages key stakeholders and professional bodies to develop a revised list for endorsement by the Drug Advisory Committee.

We request applications from qualified individuals for short-term assignments as mentioned below:

Position: Consultant – Pharmacologist
Tentative duration: 30-35 days
Location: Kathmandu

Background:

The consultant – pharmacologist will provide technical pharmacological input in reviewing and updating the NEML, ensuring medicines high clinical efficacy and pharmacological standards.

Duration and Timeline

The consultancy will span 30- 35 working days, commencing in May and concluding by July 15, 2025.

Key responsibilities of the position:

Review WHO Model List, national guidelines, and the Basic Health Care Service package for alignment.
Lead the technical review of pharmacological content in the NEML 2021.
Collect, organize, and validate data for all proposed inclusions and deletions.
Ensure incorporation of AWARE categorization for antibiotics to enhance rational use.
Participate in consultations with stakeholders and the EML expert review committee.
Provide pharmacological assessments and justifications for all proposed revisions.
Assist in drafting the revised NEML from a pharmacological perspective.

Reporting Requirements:

Submitting a comprehensive technical review report on pharmacological aspects.
Providing validated data sets for proposed inclusions and deletions.
Detailed input and assessment for the revised NEML.
Submit draft revised NEML and compile the feedback for finalization.

Educational qualifications and experiences:

Degree in pharmacy, pharmacology, or a related field, with specialized training in clinical pharmacology.
At least 5 years of experience in pharmacological reviews, essential medicines lists, and clinical protocols.

For Scope of Work, Please Click Here.