Thursday, October 15, 2009

Vacancy for a public health nutritionist (PhD/ post doc) in the University of Zaragoza

The Research Group “Growth, Exercise, Nutrition and Development” (GENUD), from the
University of Zaragoza (Spain) is searching for a young PhD, with post-doctoral experience on Public Health Nutrition.

Offered
- Participation in the activities of a multidisciplinary Research Group (GENUD), with a long lasting experience in Public Health Nutrition in Children and adolescents, and currently involved in several EU, FP6 (HELENA, IDEFICS, EURRECA) and FP7(ENERGY, ToyBox), DG SANCO (EPODE European Network) and Spanish National Projects (AVENA, EVASYON).
- Contact with different research networks (COSPI, SAMID) and scientific societies
(ECOG, ECO, FENS, ESPGHAN).
- A 12 months contract, with the highest salary officially allocated for this position by the University of Zaragoza, including full Health Insurance coverage.
- Opportunities to use large data bases, with the possibility of publishing papers in high impact journals.
- Financial support for new training and participation in Scientific Meetings.

Expected
- A PhD on Public Health Nutrition with some post-doctoral experience and interest on
dietary intake assessment (at least three impact factor papers as first author are required).
- A person being able to work in a team and to lead young PhD and Master Students.
- A person being able to apply for research funding and create new research lines within the
group.
- A person being able to manage large data bases and to write high impact factor papers (good English skills and statistical and epidemiological training are required).

If you are interested
Please send, before October 30th, 2009, to the GENUD Project Manager, Pilar Meléndez
(pmelen@unizar.es), the following documents:
- CV in English, focusing on publications and participation in research projects.
- Letter of motivation to apply for this position.
- Two letters of recommendation from two senior researchers having a good knowledge of the candidate.

Vacancy for a Nutrition Program Manager - Chiquita

The position
In coordination with the Global R&D Director the Nutrition Program Manager will propose, develop and implement the company’s Nutrition Programs for the different product categories (fresh fruit, healthy beverages, healthy snacks, fresh cut salads)

He/she will lead all Nutritional activities within the New Product Development Program Worldwide. He/she will coordinate and lead activities on Nutrition matters with identified local point of contact in North America, Central America and Asia.

Key responsibilities
1. Stimulate and guide the nutrition dimension of product innovation and renovation for all product categories and contribute as nutrition expert to all projects within the New Product Development program.
2. Build and maintain know-how on company specific regulatory matters and ensure that regulatory constraints and opportunities are integrated in NPD related decision making.
3. Support product and business development by identifying potential Nutrition and Health Food Claims
4. Responsible for approval of all Nutritional label initiatives and package/ advertising claims
5. Lead nutritional and scientific research with external Partners as part of the R&D Program.
6. Disseminate the latest findings in nutrition research in a user-friendly format.
7. Create and maintain a Company nutrition database.

Experience
We are looking for an individual with a Degree in Nutrition Sciences by preference a Master Degree or PhD. With at least 8 years of successful experience in setting up and leading nutrition activities within an international food processing company.
Being familiar with fresh fruit or fresh food is an important asset.
A strong scientific background and a proven and extensive knowledge and experience within regulatory matters in Europe with a track record in successful health claims is a key requirement to be successful in this role.
Substantial skill and experience in developing and implementing project management processes and tools is indispensable.

Personal characteristics
The person we seek will have already demonstrated the ability to lead nutrition programs within a fast growing environment.
Excellent interpersonal and persuasion skills are required to maintain and enhance successfully the disciplined approach of processing the Nutrition Program worldwide.
It requires a pragmatic approach and the sensitivity to issues that will enable the person to deal with the inevitable ambiguities inherent in a company growing internationally in a competitive environment.

The person we seek will be a driver with the experience in nutrition project management that commands respect from managers and peers in own and other departments in the company.

A clear, fast thinker and self-starter, able and determined to translate knowledge and understanding of the business to drive the acceptance of actionable solutions and willing to make pragmatic decisions in implementing them.

Languages
The person will be fluent in English and ideally also in other European languages.

Education
The person we seek will hold an advanced degree in food sciences and may hold additional post graduate qualifications.

Location
The person we seek will be based in Rolle, Switzerland . Regular travel is envisaged.

Visit also www.joinchiquita.com to learn more

Monday, October 12, 2009

Conference on climate mitigation, sustainability and healthy eating in public foodscapes

The 25th and 26th of November 2009, a conference on novel strategies for climate mitigation, sustainability and healthy eating in public foodscapes is arranged by Aalborg University and the iPOPY project group.

The conference will focus on how professional decision makers, public planners and politicians can impact climate through strategies in large scale food environments, and how organic food supply can be integrated.

The conference is a pre-climate summit event for the United Nations Climate Change Conference in Copenhagen December 7th-18th 2009.

The event will take place at Aalborg Universitys' campus at Copenhagen Institute of Technology in Ballerup (near Copenhagen).

For more information, please see the conference homepage.

Friday, September 25, 2009

Meeting of "Young" Public Health Nutritionists during the International Congress of Nutrition (Bangkok, Thailand)

During the ICN which will be held in Bangkok (4-9 October 2009), there will be a meeting of the Young Public Health Nutritionists Network.

Members and non-members are welcome!
Deatils on date, time and location are provided below:

Date: Monday the 5th of October 2009, at the second coffee break (i.e. in the afternoon).

Location: by the Poster Help Desk on the Grand Hall Foyer, 2nd Level. (Note: there may be help desks on other floors too!)

Vacancy at the World Heart Federation

JOB DESCRIPTION

Position: Study Director

Reporting to: International Project Advisory Board
World Heart Federation CEO

Based at: World Heart Federation Headquarters, Geneva, Switzerland

Position Context – Project Objective
To demonstrate that increased awareness and lifestyle behavioural changes, with a strong focus on changing the quality of dietary fats, encouraged by a multi-stakeholder approach, will lead to a reduction in key risk factors for CVD (particularly LDL-C) in a sustainable way in order to encourage all stakeholders in CVD prevention to step up their actions.

1. Main Function:
* To prepare and then manage the implementation of this major multi-stakeholder country intervention project addressing behavioural change around risk factors for cardiovascular disease.

2. Major Responsibilities:

Phase 1 (12 months)
* To develop a coalition of stakeholders who will be partners in the intervention, from a broad cross section such as; governments, media, business, academia and NGOs
* Agree with the partners the breadth and scope of the intervention, along with detailed plans for implementation, monitoring & evaluation and communication
* Develop the study design, protocol and budget
* Supervise the development of a questionnaire and the protocol for the baseline survey
* Hire a local project manager
* Establish a functioning Steering Committee for the project from the stakeholders
* Setup an International Advisory Board (IAB) representing the international stakeholders. Consult and report to the IAB
* Identify potential funding sources and make a full funding plan

3. Key Requirements:
* MD and PHD in public health related field or equivalent
* Experience of major international public health initiatives with demonstrated ability to provide strategic leadership
* Strong project planning, networking, communication and organisational skills
* Strong interpersonal and negotiating skills with demonstrated ability to work within a team environment and capacity to work with a range of stakeholders
* Knowledge of key funding institutions and potential funding partners. Demonstrated ability to write grant proposals and secure significant funds for major public health initiatives
* Excellent English (written & spoken)
* Willingness to travel

Click here for more information

Wednesday, September 16, 2009

Two posts for professorships/associate professorships in nutrition at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway

Two posts for professorships/associate professorships in nutrition are announced at the Faculty of Medicine, University of Oslo, Norway. The positions are administered by the Faculty of Medicine and are at the Institute of Basic Medical Sciences, Department of Nutrition.

For those interested, you can find more information through the two links below (you can change the language to English in the top right hand corner):

Professor/associate professor in clinical nutrition:
https://www.webcruiter.no/wcmain/advertviewpublic.aspx?oppdragsnr=517087934&
company_id=283267440&culture_id=NB-NO

Professor/associate professor in nutritional epidemiology:
https://www.webcruiter.no/wcmain/advertviewpublic.aspx?oppdragsnr=521246971&
company_id=283267440&culture_id=NB-NO

Thursday, August 27, 2009

Vacancy for a technical officer at WHO

Description of duties:
1. Providing technical input to the development and revision of Infant Young Child Feeding indicators; performing the collection and analysis of relevant information; maintaining the WHO Global Data Base on infant and young child feeding.
2. Analysing the evidence of the efficacy and effectiveness of nutrition interventions aimed at improving maternal and child nutrition and their implementation and provide input to the WHO Library of Evidence on nutrition interventions accordingly.
3. Providing technical input to the development of guidelines on maternal and infant nutrition
4. Collaborating with other HQ Departments, with Regional and Country Offices, partner Agencies and academic institutions for the collection and analysis of information on IYCF.
5. Building capacities of health care staff on maternal and young child nutrition.
6. Providing input to reports, publications and presentations to illustrate the outcome of the analyses of IYCF, policy and programme indicators.
7. Providing support for generating funding proposals.
8. Performing other duties as requested by supervisor and Department Director.

Summary of main expected outcomes:
1. Update of technical guidelines aimed at improving maternal, infant and young child nutrition.
2. Technical support provided to Member States for collection of up-to-date information on infant and young child nutrition, adaptation of global guidelines on infant and young child nutrition and the evaluation of programmes.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS
Education:
Post graduate degree in nutrition science, medicine or other related field, with sound knowledge of statistics and epidemiology.

Skills:
Demonstrated ability to analyse technical issues and write and present scientific and technical
information clearly and concisely with good communication and presentation skills. Knowledge of maternal, infant and young child nutrition and of the relevant corrective interventions.
Database management. Systematic review methodology.

WHO competencies:
Communicating in a credible and effective way
Producing results Moving forward in a changing environment
Experience:

Essential:
At least 5 years of experience in the area of maternal and child nutrition with at least 2 years of
international level experience. Experience in research on the implementation of maternal and child nutrition intervention. Experience in data analysis and management.

Desirable:
Field experience in maternal and child nutrition programs an asset. Familiarity with the UN system
an asset.

More information available here

Monday, August 24, 2009

1st All Africa Horticulture Congress: Grown Under the Sun

August 31-September 3, 2009, Nairobi, Kenya

After two years for maturing and several preliminary thoughts and discussions around the concept, Kenya will be hosting the first All Africa Horticulture Congress in 2009
African horticulturists often attending ISHS international events elsewhere have agreed on the need for a specific African event on horticulture: a need for valorizing experiences and achievements through research projects and case studies, a need for expressing constraints and expectations, a needs for coordinating efforts and prospective strategies.

Additional thoughts and debates amongst horticultural stakeholders have convinced them that the whole value chain should be highlighted at the Congress, offering a unique and regular opportunity for deep and direct exchanges between the diverse partners: academic institutions, public research and development organizations, and business actors who include all types of farmers.

The themes of this congress will focus broadly on Horticulture for improving livelihoods in Africa, through:

* Food security
* Health
* Environment
* Poverty alleviation/wealth creation
* International horticultural trade.

The Congress will be held at the Safari Park Hotel, Nairobi, Kenya, from 31 August to 3 September 2009 under the auspices of ISHS and the Global Horticulture Initiative. The programme will be conducted through plenary sessions, moderated discussion fora, exhibitions, seminars in parallel sessions and field visits.

More information available here

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Tuesday, July 28, 2009

Interesting article # 10

Interesting article on the use of financial incentives to achieve healthy behaviours.

"Personal financial incentives are increasingly being used to motivate patients and general populations to change their behaviour, most often as part of schemes aimed at reducing rates of obesity, smoking, and other addictive behaviours. Opinion on their use varies, with incentives being described both as "key to reducing smoking, alcohol and obesity rates" and as "a form of bribery" and "rewarding people for unhealthy behaviour." The authors reviewed evidence on the effectiveness of financial incentives in achieving health related behaviour change and examine the basis for moral and other concerns about their use."

Full article available here

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Friday, June 19, 2009

Request for proposals

Request for proposals: Promising agriculture and food policies and innovations to better health and nutrition in Latin America and the Caribbean

The Pan American Health Organization (www.paho.org) will fund three research proposals that show how existing or potential agriculture and food policies or technological innovations (e.g., biotechnology) can make a contribution to population health and diet with focus on obesity and non-communicable disease in Latin America and the Caribbean.

Deadline for submitting proposals: 4 September 2009, 2:00 pm (US Eastern Time)

Proposals that incorporate issues of agriculture sustainability, preservation of culinary traditions, or promote collaboration between agriculture and public health professionals are particularly encouraged. Policies are expected to show potential or actual population impact on health and nutrition by way of modifying one or some of the following aspects: agriculture and trade policies, food security, food and nutrition policies and consumer behaviors (e.g., food-purchasing behavior and food consumption patterns).

The principal investigator must be an "in-country" professional from any country in Latin American and the Caribbean and must be affiliated to an institution with identifiable research experience.

Email applications with the subject: PAHO RFP FOOD POLICY & HEALTH to Dr. Enrique Jacoby at jacobyen@paho.org with copy to bennette@paho.org.

Download the request for proposals at: http://devserver.paho.org/equity/index.php?option=com_docman&Itemid=158.

New report - GM CROPS: GLOBAL SOCIO ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 1996 - 2007

GM CROPS: GLOBAL SOCIO ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS 1996 - 2007
Graham Brookes & Peter Barfoot; PGS Economics, UK

A new, updated study by UK based economists Graham Brookes and Peter Barfoot, quantifies the cumulative economic and environmental impacts of biotech crops grown during the past twelve years (1996-2007). The authors report that biotech crops have resulted in significant global economic and environmental benefits and are making important contributions to global food security. Over the past twelve years, the authors report that biotech crop adoption has helped reduce greenhouse gas emissions from agriculture, reduced pesticide spraying and significantly increased farmer incomes. They note that this technology has also contributed to higher yields for many farmers resulting in increases in crop production. The full report is available at www.pgeconomics.co.uk .
A summary version has been submitted for publication and is currently in peer review. Previous versions of this study have been published in peer reviewed scientific journals.

PhD opportunity in epidemiology

A PhD student position is available immediately in the area of disease
modeling and spatial epidemiology in the group of Dr. Renata Ivanek at
the College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences, Texas A&M
University
(http://www.cvm.tamu.edu/vibs/facultydetail.aspx?ID=RIvanek).

Applicants must (i) have earned a Doctor of Medicine degree (MD) or
Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree (DVM or equivalent), (ii) have an
interest in mathematics and statistics and (iii) have an interest in the
epidemiology of infectious and foodborne diseases. Past experience or
education in epidemiology is highly desirable.

The PhD student would join a vibrant group of researchers and graduate
students within the program of Veterinary Epidemiology and Public
Health, in the Department of Veterinary Integrative Biosciences, at the
Texas A&M College of Veterinary Medicine and Biomedical Sciences. The
College is recognized as a national leader in research, education and
service and offers students outstanding opportunities for state of the
art research training and collaboration both within the college and
throughout the University system.

Interested individuals should send their CV with names and contact
details of three referees and their GRE scores to Dr. Ivanek (
rivanek@cvm.tamu.edu)

Tuesday, May 12, 2009

Vegetarian day in schoolcanteens

Ghent, Belgium, a city with 250000 inhabitants will introduce from next schoolyear, Thursday vegetarian day in their schoolcanteens.
More than 2000 children that enjoy the hot meals in the schoolcanteens will have every Thursday a vegetarion meal. This is to increase the awareness of a healthy diet as well the awareness of sustainability.

More information on (only in Dutch):

http://www.standaard.be/Artikel/Detail.aspx?artikelId=NI2A0BLK
http://gent.be/eCache/THE/4/125.cmVjPTE1MTA1OA.html

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YOUNG SCIENTIST AWARD

All young public health nutritionists have been invited to participate in the YOUNG SCIENTIST AWARD. This is a joint initiative of the ENLP-SEANLP-ANLP programmes sponsored by the Judith Zwartz Foundation, that will take place at the upcoming 19th International Congress of Nutrition in Bangkok.

Full details about this and other activities organized within the frame of the ICN-Bangkok can also be found here.

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Better food at work

Firsdt call for the conference "Better food at work" - the Nordic & Baltic experience.
The conference will be held in Tallinn, Estonia, from 23 - 25 September 2009.

More information avaiable here

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Vacancy at the International Atomic Energy Agency

The Nutritional and Health Related Environmental Studies Section at the
International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) in Vienna is looking for a
Nutrition Scientist to join their team.

More information available here

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Friday, May 1, 2009

Postdoctoral Research position SKO 1352 – University of Oslo, Institute

Department of Nutrition is one of the largest departments at IMB. The position is connected to professor Rune Blomhoffs research group and the project "The health effects of a diet rich in plant-based foods and fish. Focus on Nordic food”, which is funded by the Research Council (Folkehelseprogrammet).

Reference no: 2009/6224
Deadline for application: 14.05.2009

Contact info:

Professor Rune Blomhoff, +47 22 85 13 95

For questions regarding online application: Marie Cecilie Bakken, +47 22 84 46 86

Apply for position online here and click on the link “Søk på stillingen” and choose English language at the top of the page (use the link “Språk”).

3 Job vacancies at Danone

More information online at www.danonepeople.com
Relevant job references:
- JR 15367: Senior Nutrition Scientist Recommendations
- JR 15394: Senior Scientist Nutrition Epidemiology
- JR 15368: Senior Scientist Nutrient metabolism & physiology

Vacancy for a research assistant at the Food and Climate Change Research Institute

The Food and Climate Change Research Institute has a vacancy for a Research Assistant. The post is part time (2 days a week) and funded for 2 years.

The work will involve providing administrative support, synthesising information relating to food and climate change and producing material for dissemination via the FCRN membership mailing list and the FCRN website.

Candidates should have a first degree in a relevant subject or equivalent work experience, excellent writing, summary and communication skills and a general understanding of food and environmental issues. A Masters degree or equivalent experience is preferable but the job may also be suitable for someone undertaking a part-time Masters course.

For full job and application details visit http://www.surrey.ac.uk and click on ‘Job Opportunities’ or contact Rebecca Varcoe on Tel: +44 (0) 1483 686060 or email r.varcoe@surrey.ac.uk. Quote Post Ref No. 7042.

Deadline for applications: 22 May 2009.

20th International Summer School of Epidemiology

Ulm University, Germany
Institute of Epidemiology
July 27 – July 31, 2009
The program is geared to persons with interest in the fields of epidemiology and public health. Professionals, scientists and students working in clinical medicine, epidemiology, public health, social insurance, health policy or health administration are welcome. All courses will be held in English.

More information available here

2 post doc & 1 PhD position at the Center for Healthy Aging, University of Copenhagen

The new Center for Healthy Aging invites applications for two post doc positions and one Ph.D. preparation grant within its Research Program 4. The post docs are for a period of two years with a possibility of extension. The grant is for an initial period of 3 months. The positions focus on social and cultural aspects of interventions with a primary focus on preventive medication.

The positions are open at the earliest convenience. The Post Docs will be placed at the Department of Anthropology in the Social Science Faculty and the Unit of Health Services Research, Department of Public Health, Faculty of Health Sciences. The pre-PhD will be affiliated to one of the two units or to the Unit of Social Medicine under the Department of Public Health. The Post Doc will work on his/her own project in collaboration with other members of the team and also take part in joint multidisciplinary projects related to Program 4 of the Center. Furthermore, the post doc will be involved in teaching activities to a certain amount.

For more information clic here

The New Genomics: Public Health, Social and Clinical Implications

University of Bristol

4 – 5 June 2009

In celebration of the University’s Centenary, this year’s Colston Research Society Symposium brings together a range of speakers from those working at the forefront of many areas of medical research and clinical practice relating to Genetics, Society and Public Health.

There is a line up of excellent international speakers and a special public lecture by Professor Sydney Brenner of the Salk Institute.

More information

Sunday, April 26, 2009

WHO Roster of qualified and experienced nutritionists with public health background

A WHO Roster of qualified and experienced nutritionists with public health background is being established.
Candidates with nutrition qualifications and at least five years experience in international public health nutrition are welcome to submit their CVs to nutrition@who.int.
The roster is open and candidates will be contacted directly by the interested Regional and Country Offices.

Announcement in the SCN website.

The World Bank - Young Professionals Program

The World Bank Young Professionals Program (YPP) will be receiving on-line applications from May 01 to July 15, 2009.
For more information, click on the permanent URL for this page

Monday, March 23, 2009

Opportunity to study the epidemiology of arsenic exposure in Nova Scotia

Graduate student opportunity to study the epidemiology of arsenic exposure in Nova Scotia - M.Sc. Epidemiology - Dept of Health Management, UPEI, Canada

Pending final approval, a new MSc position in epidemiology will be available for the study of arsenic levels in drinking water and body tissues in Nova Scotians, and the associated genetic damage of arsenic on the body tissues. The project is the result of collaboration among researchers from UPEI, Dalhousie U, Mt Allison U, Acadia U, Health Canada, and Equilibrium Environmental Inc.

The student will be based at the Department of Health Management at UPEI, but should expect some traveling to other areas within Atlantic Canada, with the data collection being in Nova Scotia, and collaborators coming from outside PEI. The student will be involved primarily in the epidemiological aspects of the project, so laboratory skills (eg. sample processing, QA/QC) are assets but are not essential. As part of the research, the student will be conducting face-to-face surveys with participants on their drinking water and food habits. Because of confidentiality issues with participant’s identities, the student will undergo a reliability security check.

The student is expected to develop and write a thesis, take graduate courses in epidemiology and biostatistics, and present their results at regional, national and international meetings and publish (results) in high quality journals.

Applicants are expected to have a D.V.M. or B.Sc. degree in biological sciences with courses in biostatistics and biochemistry. Enthusiasm and ability to work in collaboration with a multidisciplinary team of researchers are also important. A valid driver’s license is required.

Interested students should submit: i) a letter profiling their research interests, ii) experience in community health, health geography, cellular biology, toxicology, biochemistry, biophysics, water quality assessment, epidemiology and biostatistics; ii) university transcript(s): and iii) an updated curriculum vitae. The CV should include the name and contact information for three references. The position could possibly start as early as May 2009 and is for 2 years.

Submit questions and applications to:
John VanLeeuwen
Department of Health Management
University of Prince Edward Island
550 University Avenue
Charlottetown PE, C1A 4P3
jvanleeuwen@upei.ca

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Wednesday, March 11, 2009

Young Voices in Research for Health 2009 essay competition

The Global Forum for Health Research and The Lancet invite researchers under age 30 years to submit an essay to the Young Voices in Research for Health competition.

The 2009 theme is "Innovating for the health of all."

The submission deadline is 3 May 2009.

Click here for more information, or contact: Susan Jupp (susan.jupp@globalforumhealth.org) or Udani Samarasekera (u.samarasekera@lancet.com).

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Distance learning course on HINARI

A six-week course on how to use HINARI (www.who.int/hinari) will be conducted online as a distance learning course on 6 April-18 May 2009. Registration deadline is 1 April 2009.
Participation is limited to 30 individuals.
For further information contact Lenny Rhine at rhinel@ufl.edu.
To register online, go to and click on 'register for courses' using POLHN37 as the course number.
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Friday, February 27, 2009

Milestone report on "Policy and Action for Cancer Prevention"

The World Cancer Reasearch Fund/American Institute for Cancer Research launched on the 26 February 2009 their new report on "Policy and Action for Cancer Prevention".
This landmark policy report highlights that 45% of colon cancer cases and 38% of breast cancer cases in the US are preventable through diet, physical activity and weight maintenance.

The overall message of the report, is that all sections of society need to make public health, and cancer prevention in particular, a higher priority.

As part of the evidence-based report, thought to be the most comprehensive ever published on the subject, two independent teams of scientists systematically examined the evidence for how policy changes can influence the behaviors that affect cancer risk.

Following this, a panel of 23 world-renowned experts made a total of 48 recommendations, divided between nine different but often overlapping sectors of society – called “actor groups” in the report. These actor groups are: multinational bodies; civil society organizations; government; industry; media; schools; workplaces and institutions; health and other professionals; and people.

Among the recommendations:

* Governments should require widespread walking and cycling routes to encourage physical activity.
* Industry should give a higher priority for goods and services that encourage people to be active, particularly young people.
* The food and drinks industry should make public health an explicit priority at all stages of production.
* Schools should actively encourage physical activity and provide healthy food for children.
* Schools, workplaces and institutions should not have unhealthy foods available in vending machines.
* Health professionals should take a lead in giving the public information about public health, including cancer prevention.
* People should use independent nutrition guides and food labels to make sure the food they buy for their family is healthy.

More information is available here

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Pre-Congress Meeting on: "Health behaviour and status in European adolescents"

An ECO 2009 Pre-Congress Meeting on: "Health behaviour and status in European adolescents" will take place on May 6th, 2009 in Amsterdam, The Netherlands.

More information is available here

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Friday, February 20, 2009

Assistant Professor Sensory Science and Food Technology

Vacancy: AFSG 09-016
Place: Wageningen, Division of Human Nutrition
Position: Assistant Professor Sensory Science and Food Technology

The new chair of Sensory Science and Eating Behaviour is strategically positioned between the Division of Human Nutrition and the Product Design and Quality Management group (PDQ) of the cluster Food Technology of Wageningen University. The chair focuses on the role of sensory signals for food choice and food intake. Three scientific staff members can be appointed, an experimental psychologist, a food technologist, and a biologist. Together with the chair holder, these three persons form the nucleus of a new group on this exciting field
The area of research and teaching of this position concerns the sensory perception and preference of food items in relation to physical-chemical properties of foods.

Requirements:
We are looking for an enthusiastic researcher, a person that feels strong responsibility for setting up a research line and teaching programme within the domain of Sensory Science and Food Technology.
•PhD within the field of Food Technology and/or Flavour Chemistry
•Knowledge and expertise in sensory science with publications in relevant scientific journals
•Proven ability for acquisition of funding of scientific research
•Ambitious and enthusiastic scientist
•Excellent communication skills
•Team player with good sense of political environment
•Didactic qualities and enthusiasm for teaching and working with BSc, MSc and PhD students

Additional information about the Division of Human Nutrition can be obtained through:
http://www.hne.wur.nl/
Additional information about the Product Design and Quality Management Group can be obtained through: http://www.pdq.wur.nl/uk

Information:
Additional information can be obtained from the chair holder Prof Kees de Graaf, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, + 31 (0) 317 484451; E-mail address: Kees.deGraaf@wur.nl
Information on the position: Dhr. R. van Meegen, HRM, Agrotechnology and Food Sciences Group, tel. 0317-485466, e-mail rob.vanmeegen@wur.nl

Applications:
Your letter of application, including CV and the position number, can be sent within two weeks after publishing of the advertisement to: WUR-AFSG, HRM, Mrs. I. Lamers, PO Box 17, 6700 AA Wageningen, or e-mail to afsg-vacatures@wur.nl

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Assistant Professor Sensory Science and Experimental Psychology

Vacancy: AFSG 09-015
Place: Wageningen, Division of Human Nutrition
Position: Assistant Professor Sensory Science and Experimental Psychology

Job description:
The new chair of Sensory Science and Eating Behaviour is strategically positioned between the Division of Human Nutrition and the Product Design and Quality Management group (PDQ) of the cluster Food Technology of Wageningen University. The chair focuses on the role of sensory signals for food choice and food intake. Three scientific staff members can be appointed, an experimental psychologist, a food technologist, and a biologist. Together with the chair holder, these three persons form the nucleus of a new group on this exciting field.
The area of research and teaching for this position concerns the formation of the sensory perception of and preferences for foods. One of the current biggest scientific challenges for the field of sensory science and psychology is the understanding of the psychological mechanisms that are important in the dynamics of food preferences and aversions after repeated exposure to foods. This understanding yields tools that help to design “healthy” foods, that stay attractive after repeated exposure.

Requirements:
We are looking for an enthusiastic researcher, a person that feels strong responsibility for setting up a research line and teaching programme within the domain of Sensory Science and Psychology.
• PhD within the field of Experimental and/or Physiological Psychology
• Knowledge and expertise in sensory science with publications in relevant scientific journals
• Proven ability for acquisition of funding of scientific research
• experience with neuro-imaging is appreciated
• Ambitious and enthusiastic scientist
• Excellent communication skills
• Team player with good sense of political environment
• Didactic qualities and enthusiasm for teaching and working with BSc, MSc and PhD students

Additional information about the Division of Human Nutrition can be obtained through:
http://www.hne.wur.nl/
Additional information about the Product Design and Quality Management Group can be obtained through: http://www.pdq.wur.nl/uk

Information:
Additional information can be obtained from the chair holder Prof Kees de Graaf, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, + 31 (0) 317 484451; E-mail address: Kees.deGraaf@wur.nl
Information on the position: Dhr. R. van Meegen, HRM, Agrotechnology and Food Sciences Group, tel. 0317-485466, e-mail rob.vanmeegen@wur.nl

Applications:
Your letter of application, including CV and the position number, can be sent within two weeks after publishing of the advertisement to: WUR-AFSG, HRM, Mrs. I. Lamers, PO Box 17, 6700 AA Wageningen, or e-mail to afsg-vacatures@wur.nl

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Assistant professor Sensory Science and (Neuro-)biology

Vacancy number: AFSG 09-014
Place: Wageningen, Division of Human Nutrition
Position: Assistant professor Sensory Science and (Neuro-)biology

The new chair of Sensory Science and Eating Behaviour is strategically positioned between the Division of Human Nutrition and the Product Design and Quality Management group (PDQ) of the cluster Food Technology of Wageningen University. The chair focuses on the role of sensory signals for food choice and food intake. Three scientific staff members can be appointed, an experimental psychologist, a food technologist, and a biologist. Together with the chair holder, these three persons form the nucleus of a new group on this exciting field.
The area of research and teaching for this position concerns the (neuro)biology of sensory and metabolic signals that are involved in the regulation of food choice and food intake. One of the current biggest scientific challenges for the field of sensory science and (neuro-)biology is the understanding of the representation in the brain of food perception and food reward. This understanding yields tools to develop “healthy” attractive foods. For example, within the context of a current research project we work on the identification of taste and aroma profiles that induce satiation.

Requirements:
We are looking for an enthusiastic researcher, a person that feels strong responsibility for setting up a research line and teaching programme within the domain of Sensory Science and (neuro) Biology.
• PhD within the field of Physiology , Neuro-endocrinology, and/or Neurobiology
• Knowledge, expertise with respect the regulation of food intake and/or sensory science with publications in relevant scientific journals
• Proven ability for acquisition of funding of scientific research
• experience with neuro-imaging is appreciated
• Ambitious and enthusiastic scientist
• Excellent communication skills
• Team player with good sense of political environment
• Didactic qualities and enthusiasm for teaching and working with BSc, MSc and PhD students

Additional information about the Division of Human Nutrition can be obtained through:
http://www.hne.wur.nl/
Additional information about the Product Design and Quality Management Group can be obtained through: http://www.pdq.wur.nl/uk

Information:
Additional information can be obtained from the chair holder Prof Kees de Graaf, Division of Human Nutrition, Wageningen University, + 31 (0) 317 484451; E-mail address: Kees.deGraaf@wur.nl
Information on the position: Dhr. R. van Meegen, HRM, Agrotechnology and Food Sciences Group, tel. 0317-485466, e-mail rob.vanmeegen@wur.nl

Applications:
Your letter of application, including CV and the position number, can be sent within two weeks after publishing of the advertisement to: WUR-AFSG, HRM, Mrs. I. Lamers, PO Box 17, 6700 AA Wageningen, or e-mail to afsg-vacatures@wur.nl

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Monday, February 16, 2009

PhD studentships in Cardiovascular Epidemiology

Applications are invited from UK/EU nationals* for two PhD studentships hosted at the University of Cambridge in conjunction with GlaxoSmithKline.

Applicants will require a 2:1 degree or higher in a related quantitative subject. Support includes an annual MRC/GSK stipend (minimum £18,290), PhD registration fees at UK/EU student rate, research expenses and some travel costs.

*Before applying, check here your eligibility under MRC residency requirements

For further information contact Adam Butterworth at: asb38@medschl.cam.ac.uk

Application details are available here

Closing date: Friday 27th February

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Post-doctoral fellowship in Life Course Epidemiology

Opportunity for a post-doctoral fellowship in Life Course Epidemiology that is being jointly sponsored by the National Institute on Aging at the NIH and the Medical Research Council Unit for Lifelong Health and Ageing (LHA) in the U.K.

This fellowship provides the trainee the opportunity to utilize one of the leading life course epidemiologic research studies in the world and to train with mentors who have extensive experience doing this kind of research.

Suitable candidates for this fellowship should have a PhD or an MD with an MPH or MS with training in epidemiology, demography or a related field. To qualify, their most recent degree should have been conferred in the past five years.

Interested candidates should send a letter of interest and a CV to Jack.Guralnik@nih.gov or write to Dr. Jack Guralnik at the address listed above.

Deadline for applications: March 31, 2009.

More information here

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Wednesday, February 11, 2009

PhD opportunities in a leading department - University of Bristol

Four studentships will be available in October 2009, to outstanding and highly motivated science graduates, with good honours or Masters degrees in relevant disciplines, wishing to pursue a career in molecular, genetic or lifecourse epidemiology.

More information available here

MRC funded Centre for Causal Analyses in Translational Research (CAiTE)

4 year PhD studentships with a specific focus on causal analyses and translational epidemiology are available through the MRC funded Centre for Causal Analyses in Translational Research (CAiTE), which is also based in the Department of Social Medicine.
The programmes provide broadly based research training in molecular and clinical epidemiology, molecular and statistical genetics, bioinformatics and genetic laboratory skills. The initial year of training in each Programme involves seminars, taught modules and short projects with researchers attached to each of the Programmes’ themes. Students can then make an informed choice of their main PhD project and supervisor.
Tuition fees at the rate applicable to Home (EU) students are provided by the Wellcome Trust and MRC in support of the 4-year PhD Programmes. Overseas applicants (for Wellcome only) must be in confirmed receipt of an Overseas Research Scholarship award to cover the shortfall in funding.
The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday 6th March 2009.
For further details about the Wellcome Trust or the MRC CAiTE studentships, potential topics and supervisors, and for application forms, contact: Susie Potts, University of Bristol, Canynge Hall, 39 Whatley Road, Bristol BS8 2PS (0117 928 7274). Email susie.potts@bristol.ac.uk

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Tuesday, February 10, 2009

"The World is Fat" - New book by Barry Popkin

Interesting reading on dietary evolution, the obesity epidemic, role of food industry, and the role of government.

More information available here

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Friday, February 6, 2009

Obesity and the Economy : From Crisis to Opportunity

Interesting article/ comentary published in the Journal of the American (JAMA. 2009;301(5):533-535), abstract pasted below

David S. Ludwig, MD, PhD; Harold A. Pollack, PhD

"The onset of a major recession places the economic correlates of obesity into sharp relief. Even in good economic times, obesity imposes great financial burden on society in the form of higher medical costs and lower worker productivity. The economic downturn can be expected to reduce nutrition quality and physical activity, worsening obesity prevalence when society is least able to bear the escalating financial burden. Yet this crisis also offers unprecedented opportunity. The economic stimulus under consideration in Washington could help launch a comprehensive national obesity initiative with immediate public health benefits, while laying the foundations for economic well-being into the 21st century."

Tuesday, January 27, 2009

Vacancy - Action Against hunger

Closing date: 31 Jan 2009
Location: Spain - Madrid

Action against Hunger is looking for a NUTRITION AND HEALTH TECHNICAL ADVISER , who, under the supervision of the Technical Director will be:
  • Responsible for ACF-E Nutrition technical strategy concerning quality, appropriateness, design, justification and finance.
  • Responsible for implementation of the Nutritional technical strategy in each ACF-E mission.
  • The focal point representing the organisation externally on ACF-E Nutrition technical strategy (ACFIN and international institutions)
Requirements
  • Obligatory: Health background (nurse, doctor), strong competence in health and nutrition with a minimum of 3 years in humanitarian work.
  • Some knowledge in the area of food security
  • Capacity of analyse and synthesis. Adaptation and creativity.
  • Strong capacity for training,
  • Interested for team work and integration with other technical expertise.
  • Rigor and autonomy in the work,
  • Capacity for representation.
  • Ability to launch research and pilot projects
  • Experience in the capitalisation process
  • Good written and spoken English, French and Spanish
  • Important: strong affiliation with HIV/AIDS and nutrition and food security subjects
  • The candidate must have availability for frequent trip to the missions
How to apply

Conditions


Interested persons should send their CV, details of 2 persons who can provide references of the last two posts occupied or 2 letters of recommendation written by the same two people, letter (necessary) to clear reference before. Ref: INTER NUT/09 on 31/01/09Estimated date; Because of the urgency to cover certain position the selection process can be completed before the date specified)
Address: achsede-candidaturas@achesp.org

The department RRHH respond only to those pre-selected for an interview. Thank you very much.
For more information on updating posts to be covered, thank you visit our website www.accioncontraelhambre.org.
If the position is no longer present, it means that the trial selection is closed.
Reference Code: RW_7NHMPN-

UN/WHO e-discussion on global public health

Participants are invited to join an e-discussion on global public health which will be held 29 January-26 February 2009.

The discussion is organized by UN Department for Economic and Social Affairs (UN/DESA) and the United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), in collaboration with the World Health Organization (www.un.org/ecosoc/newfunct/amr2009.shtml).

The e-discussion is open to all stakeholders. To subscribe, send a blank message (without any attachments, signatures and/or logos) to join-mdg-amr-2009@groups.dev-nets.org by 28 January 2009.

The purpose of the moderated online forum is to bring together experts, practitioners, and policymakers from within and outside the UN system to discuss strengthening health systems and emerging and future health challenges.

The discussion will be hosted on MDGNet (www.undg.org/index.cfm?P=99).

Expert Guest Moderators will guide participants through these questions:

Part I Strengthening health systems (29 January - 11 February) How can we overcome inequities in access to health services and achieve universal primary health care (PHC)? What specific initiatives can the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC) launch in July 2009?

Part II Emerging and future health challenges (12 - 26 February) What are the essential elements of national strategies to address the growing magnitude of noncommunicable diseases (cardiovascular diseases, cancers, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes) and their modifiable risk factors (tobacco use, unhealthy diets, physical inactivity and harmful use of alcohol) and social determinants? What sectors besides the health sector must be involved in designing and implementing the strategies? In the wake of the financial crisis, how can we maintain and enhance the favourable policy and resource trends for global health of the recent past?

The outcome of the forum will contribute towards the 2009 Annual Ministerial Review (www.un.org/ecosoc/newfunct/amr.shtml) on the same theme, to be held in Geneva in July 2009 during the Substantive Session of the Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC).

The 2009 Annual Ministerial Review (AMR), held during the high-level segment of the annual session of the Economic and Social Council (6-9 July 2009) at the Palais des Nations in Geneva, Switzerland, will focus on "Implementing the internationally agreed goals and commitments in regard to global public health". It provides an opportunity to:

* Assess the state of implementation of the United Nations Development Agenda;
* Explore key challenges in achieving the international goals and commitments in the area of global public health;
* Consider recommendations and proposals for action, including new initiatives.

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Monday, January 19, 2009

Conference on sustainable diet

Thursday May 14th and Friday May 15th 2009, Akershus University College in Norway will celebrate the 100th anniversary of their home economic teacher education with a conference on sustainable diet - challenges for the consumer.

Here you can find more detailes.