External Job Vacancies – Project Position
Position Title: Research Assistant
Project: Longitudinal Investigation of Dynamics of IUD Use in Africa (LIDIA Study)
Institute: Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases (UNITID)
Reference No.: AD/3/17/25
No. of Positions: One (1)
Project Overview
The Longitudinal Investigation of Dynamics of IUD Use in Africa (LIDIA Study) is housed at the Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases (UNITID), under the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences. The study aims to document long-term continuation rates and identify factors influencing the discontinuation of hormonal IUD use in Nigeria, Kenya, and Malawi. The insights gained will support future efforts to scale up the method across Africa.
Position Summary
The Research Assistant will play a key role in data collection, aligned with the approved LIDIA study protocol. Reporting directly to the Principal Investigator, the selected candidate will conduct structured interviews—both face-to-face and via phone.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
- Recruit and obtain informed consent from study participants in line with the approved protocol.
- Ensure the availability of qualitative data collection tools at the study site.
- Conduct interviews, record responses, store data securely, and transmit to the main server via a tablet.
- Review collected data for completeness and accuracy.
- Uphold confidentiality and security of all participant information.
- Maintain safekeeping and proper functioning of data collection devices.
- Adhere to project timelines for participant appointments and data collection.
- Reimburse participants and maintain accurate records of disbursements.
- Assist in monitoring project timelines and performance indicators.
- Participate in periodic project reviews and data assessments with the study team.
- Carry out additional duties related to the study as assigned by the Principal Investigator.
Job Requirements
Academic Qualifications
- Bachelor’s degree in Social Sciences, Community Health, or a related field.
Experience
- Minimum of two (2) years of relevant experience in qualitative research or health-related surveys.
- Experience as a field research supervisor is an added advantage.
- Familiarity with electronic data collection tools (e.g., ODK) is desirable.
- Previous involvement in research related to women’s health or family planning will be considered an asset.
Skills and Competencies
- Strong communication skills (fluency in English and Kiswahili).
- Exceptional organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Strong interpersonal skills, including adaptability to diverse team dynamics.
- Training and experience in qualitative data collection.
- Familiarity with research ethics and ability to work collaboratively.
- Capability to work independently with minimal supervision.
Terms of Appointment
The position is offered on a one-year contract, renewable based on performance and mutual agreement. Salary and benefits will be negotiable depending on the candidate’s qualifications, experience, and project requirements.
Application Guidelines
Interested candidates should:
- Submit a cover letter, certified copies of academic certificates, and a detailed curriculum vitae (CV), including the names and contacts of three (3) referees.
- Include telephone and email contacts in the application.
- Submit applications through their respective Heads of Department (where applicable), addressed to:
The Director, Human Resource, University of Nairobi - Clearly indicate their current job title, salary, and associated benefits.
- Quote the job reference number in the subject line of the application letter.
- Submit the application as a single PDF file via email to:
[email protected]
Deadline for Application: Thursday, April 10, 2025
Note:
Late applications will not be considered. Only shortlisted candidates will be contact
