Research Specialist, Community Engagement & Qualitative Research, Provost Office CoE at Aga Khan University Hospital

Job Summary

The Research specialist will play a key role in the planning and implementation of research studies. These roles will include study design, protocol development, ethical and government approval processes, data collection, analysis, and reporting. S/he will contribute to existing qualitative research studies as well as lead sub-studies applying primarily qualitative methods. 

Responsibilities

• Design and implement a community engagement strategy and plans for each research project and adapt these as necessary through the study cycles. This includes approaches for mobilisation, follow-up, and tracing of research participants.
• Engagement with Kilifi county department of health – This includes health administrators and managers and staff at health facilities and public health settings
• Supervise the community engagement team of staff i.e. Community based enumerators.
• Oversee setup and implementation of study awareness campaigns through community meetings, radio talks shows, posters, flyers, and other IEC materials.
• Support prudent allocation of resources to community and county engagement activities.
• Be the link between PROTECT research team and other COEWCH / AKU studies in the Coast sites and other research partners.
• Any other responsibilities as assigned by the PI.

Requirements

• Bachelors’ degree in community health, public health, social sciences, or a related field.
• Computer literacy with competence in Microsoft Office applications.
• At least 3 years’ progressive experience in community liaison or similar role is essential.
• Relevant experience in a health research environment including community and public health facility settings is essential.
• Experience in qualitative research methods, including data collection, analysis, and reporting, is essential.
• Demonstrated excellent analytical, planning, management, and communication skills are essential.
• Relevant experience in large multi-country projects will be an added advantage.
• Previous experience working in AKU will be an added advantage.
• Good verbal skills in Swahili & Mijikenda will be an added advantage.

Personal Characteristics and Behaviour

• Good organizational and management skills.
• Attentive to detail and quality.
• Ability to work independently/ with minimum supervision and within stipulated deadlines and schedules.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
• Excellent mediation skills.
• A team player and able to work in a multicultural environment.