Principal Research Officer at United States International University Africa (USIU)

Job Description

Reporting to the Dean, School of Graduate Studies, Research and Extension, the successful candidate will be responsible for undertaking research, writing proposals, implementing projects and provide advice to management on the key issues around research and extension activities that are relevant to the University.

Duties and Responsibilities

• Identify key research priorities for the University and develop a comprehensive research agenda. Research, collate and distribute targeted information with regard to new funding opportunities relevant to faculty at the University.
• Compile comprehensive research reports with clear methodology, findings and recommendations. Implement the University’s research agenda and ensure smooth coordination with both internal and external stakeholders.
• Provide relevant, timely and high quality briefs to inform outcomes of the research undertaken in the University.
• Develop comprehensive research profile or database of all studies conducted by the department and faculty and update such profile or database on a regular basis and ensure that the outcome is posted in the University Repository.
• Manage the dissemination of research undertaken by the University. Undertake strategic analysis of research and external needs and make recommendations that can inform the strategic actions of the University.
• Assist in obtaining research or project funding from external sources
• Supervising data collection and other research activities
• Assist in professional activities including presentations at graduate defenses, colloquium, and conferences.
• Attend meetings associated with research or the work of the unit to which the research is connected.
• Contribute to and uphold a robust and ambitious research culture.
• Facilitate training on research methodology to different stakeholders at the university Undertake limited administrative functions primarily connected with the area of research.
• Protect Intellectual Property Rights of the University and its partners.
• Ensure that all research and other projects meet the appropriate ethical requirements
• Undertake other duties commensurate with the classification and scope of the position as required by the Dean of the School of Graduate Studies, Research and Extension. Minimum

Educational Qualifications and Professional Experience

• Master’s degree in Business, Mathematics, Statistics, Economics or any other relevant Social Science with bias in quantitative and qualitative analysis, from an accredited university;
• At least three (3) years of progressive experience in research and capacity building in a reputable organization;
• Strong knowledge of research evaluation methodology , data quality assurance , analysis and reporting;
• Good computer literacy and knowledge of multiple statistical and/or qualitative software packages such as STATA, SPSS, MS Excel, PowerPoint, Access and Word;
• Experience conducting field research preferably in educational settings, and managing a research team;
• Strong written, verbal, organizational and Interpersonal skills;

Personal Attributes& Competencies

• Shown merit and ability as reflected in work performance and results.
• Confidentiality and integrity;
• Proficiency in computer applications;
• Team player with excellent interpersonal skills;
• Relationship builder & effective negotiator;
• Good communication skills; Self-motivated;
• Attention to detail; Adaptability and reliability.