TNM / eTNM Coding Expert

Project description

The Turkish Ministry of Health wishes  to strengthen the national cancer screening and cancer registry systems, with the overall goal of improving early detection and reducing cancer-related morbidity and mortality.The project focuses on upgrading and accrediting cancer registry centers, enhancing data quality and use, expanding mobile screening services, and increasing public and professional awareness of cancer screening—particularly among rural and disadvantaged populations. Key activities include institutional capacity building, large-scale training programs, data quality and cost-efficiency analyses, nationwide communication campaigns, and deployment of mobile screening units, alongside coordination with existing health structures. The project is expected to start late September and run for 3 years. The implementation will  require multidisciplinary expertise spanning public health, oncology, epidemiology, health systems strengthening, data management, training, and communication to support implementation and ensure sustainable improvements in screening coverage and cancer surveillance across Turkey.

Job description

The TNM / eTNM Coding Specialist will provide specialized technical support to improve the accuracy, consistency, and completeness of cancer staging data in Turkey, strengthening the application of TNM/eTNM classification systems within cancer registries and related health information systems.

Key Responsibilities: 

• Support the standardization of cancer staging and coding procedures across Cancer Registry Centres.

• Develop and deliver training activities for registry staff and relevant healthcare professionals on TNM/eTNM classification, including Training of Trainers (ToT) approaches.

• Contribute to the development of training materials, manuals, and standard operating procedures related to cancer staging and coding.

• Assist in improving the quality and completeness of staging data through validation checks, audits, and consistency reviews.

• Support the integration of TNM/eTNM variables into cancer registry databases and ensure alignment with international standards.

Facilitate coordination between clinical staff and registry personnel to ensure accurate capture and reporting of staging information.

Provide technical expertise on the application of TNM classification systems (UICC/AJCC) and eTNM in cancer registration practices.

• Contribute to technical reports and project deliverables related to cancer registry strengthening.

Qualifications

• University degree in medicine, oncology, pathology, epidemiology, or a related field.

• Minimum of 5 years of professional experience in cancer registry work, including cancer staging and coding.

• Demonstrated expertise in TNM classification systems (UICC and/or AJCC); experience with eTNM is a strong asset.

• Familiarity with international cancer registry standards (e.g. IARC, ENCR)

• Experience with cancer registry software (e.g. CanReg4/CanReg5) is a strong asset

• Certified Training of Trainers (ToT) qualification from IARC or another recognized cancer registry institution.

• Proven experience in delivering training on cancer staging or registry-related topics.

• Familiarity with cancer registry systems and data quality assurance processes.

• Experience in EU-funded or international projects is an advantage.

• Strong attention to detail and communication skills.

• Fluency in English; knowledge of Turkish is an asset.

Contact person

Alvean Fentener alvean.fentener@gfa-group.de