Research Assistant

Reports to Study Coordinator. The incumbent is responsible for working in the selected health facilities recruiting and consenting study participants, conducting record reviews, In-depth Interviews (IDIs), Key Informant Interviews (KIIs), Focus Group Discussions (FGDs) and collecting study specific data. There will be extensive travel involved to work in 16 health facilities from 4 provinces – Lusaka, Eastern, Copperbelt and Southern.

Main Duties:

• Supports the implementation of project workplans and assist with organization of field activities
• Works in close collaboration with the study coordinator, CIDRZ study team and supporting MoH staff, to ensure activities are implemented according to workplan
• Actively participates in study trainings and data review meetings and other stakeholder engagement meetings as required
• Recruits participants and obtains informed consent according to Good Clinical Practice
• Completes all required study data collection in collaboration with MoH facility staff and according to the highest ethical standards, study checklists and Standard Operating Procedures
• Ensures data is collected, organized and securely stored according to study protocol and SOP
• Maintains a work plan throughout the study and provide progress feedback to the study coordinator for tracking activities and workplan progress
• Participates in study monitoring and documentation exercises
• Performs self-quality checks (QC) in a timely manner and diligently conduct all study QC/QA procedures as required
• Maintains strict participant confidentiality and privacy at all times
• Accountable and responsible for study resources and supplies, such as data collection forms, participant files, laptops, and tablets
• Ensures project activity funds are retired in a timely manner
• Completes all required study training, including routine Human Subjects Protection and Good Clinical Practice
• Maintains NHRA registration
• Actively participate in problem solving

 Qualifications

• Grade 12 Certificate
• Certificate in social work or a health related field, diploma an advantage
• Minimum 2 years of progressively responsible experience in conducting research study activities.
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Excellent ability to work confidentially with sensitive information and protect participant privacy
• Must be able to work with minimal supervision
• Proficient in basic computer skills and Microsoft programs
• Familiarity with MoH patient records and handling patient files an advantage

Suitably qualified candidates are encouraged to apply. However, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.