Consultant, Desk Research and Technical Writing, Lead Poisoning Prevention Modules

About This Role

Resolve to Save Lives (RTSL) is seeking experienced consultants to support the development of a comprehensive technical package for lead poisoning prevention in partnership with the World Health Organization (WHO). This is a unique opportunity to contribute to global public health efforts aimed at preventing lead poisoning, which affects millions of people worldwide and causes severe health consequences including cognitive impairment, behavioral problems, and developmental delays in children.

Lead poisoning remains a critical global health threat, with recent studies estimating as many as 3.5 million deaths annually from cardiovascular disease caused by lead exposures. RTSL's Cardiovascular Health unit has expanded its work to address this urgent public health challenge, and we are developing an evidence-based technical package for launch around the World Health Assembly in 2027.

Position Summary

As a Consultant for Desk Research and Technical Writing, you will lead the development of one of four specialized modules within the lead poisoning prevention technical package. Your primary responsibility will be conducting comprehensive desk research, synthesizing evidence, and producing high-quality technical content that will guide global health policy and practice.

RTSL is seeking four consultants, each with deep subject matter expertise in one of the following specialized areas:

• Blood Lead Data, Surveillance and Epidemiologic/Clinical Response to Chemical Events: Expertise in blood lead monitoring systems, surveillance methodology, epidemiological investigation, and clinical response protocols for lead exposure incidents
• Environmental Source Investigation and Remediation: Knowledge of environmental sampling, source identification, and remediation strategies for lead in various settings including homes, workplaces, and communities
• Industrial and Occupational Lead Use, Hazards, and Safety: Deep understanding of occupational exposures, industrial lead applications, workplace safety protocols, and occupational health standards
• Lead Adulteration of Consumer Products and Supply Chains: Expertise in product safety, supply chain analysis, testing methodologies, and prevention of lead contamination in consumer goods

You are not expected to have expertise across all domains—rather, we seek specialists with exceptional knowledge in at least one of these critical areas. Your role will be to become the technical lead for your assigned module, driving research quality and content development.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead desk research and literature review for your assigned technical module
• Develop evidence-based content for the technical package module, including systematic reviews of best practices and evidence
• Synthesize complex technical information into clear, actionable guidance for policymakers and health practitioners
• Collaborate with WHO partners, RTSL team members, and other technical experts to ensure accuracy and relevance
• Produce high-quality technical writing suitable for a global health audience
• Contribute to the development of implementation guidance and resources within your module area
• Participate in stakeholder consultations and feedback integration processes

About Resolve to Save Lives

Resolve to Save Lives is a global health organization that partners locally and globally to create and scale solutions to the world's deadliest health threats. Since 2017, RTSL has worked with governments and other partners in more than 60 countries to save millions of lives. The organization focuses on closing the gap between proven, life-saving solutions and the people who need them, with a vision of a future where people live longer, healthier lives, communities flourish, and economies thrive.

The Cardiovascular Health unit specifically works closely with Ministries of Health and other partners to prevent and reduce the burden of cardiovascular disease, with an expanding focus on lead poisoning prevention as a critical component of cardiovascular health protection.

Engagement Details

• Employment Type: Independent Contractor
• Initial Duration: Three months, with possibility of extension up to four additional months
• Level of Effort: Estimated 75-100% FTE (Full-Time Equivalent)
• Location: Remote—work from anywhere with internet connectivity

Ideal Candidate Profile

The ideal candidate brings deep technical expertise in at least one of the four specialty areas listed above, with demonstrated experience in public health, environmental health, occupational safety, or product safety. You should have strong research and writing skills, with the ability to synthesize complex technical information into clear, evidence-based guidance. Experience working with international health organizations, WHO, or similar global health bodies is valuable. You should be comfortable collaborating with diverse stakeholders and adapting your communication for different audiences.

💰 Compensation not publicly listed. Market estimate for similar roles: from $80K, varying by experience and location.