Early Post-Doctoral Researcher (Epidemiology/Implementation Science Researcher) at KEMRI Wellcome Trust Research Programme (KWTRP)

JOB PURPOSE: 

The post-doctoral researcher will be responsible for 1) co-leading a body of work in the field of Implementation Science, with a particular focus on Routine Data Systems in Africa, specifically Civil and Vital Registration Services (CRVS) in Kenya 2) supporting and contributing to the capacity-building initiatives of the Population and health impact surveillance group (PHISG), 3) Supervision and mentorship of Ph.D. students and research assistants, 4) Contribute and support policy engagement initiatives of PHISG, and 5) develop own body of work and mobilize research funding to support their transition to research independence.

Description: 

REPORTS TO:  PI / Study Supervisor  

DIRECTLY SUPERVISES: Research officer and assistant research officers

INDIRECTLY SUPERVISES: Ph.D. students and research assistants

BUDGET AND RESOURCE RESPONSIBILITY:  None

JOB DIMENSIONS:

The primary responsibility will be to coordinate and support a body of work focused on evaluating health financing reforms aimed at achieving universal health coverage in Kenya.

 KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

• Coordinate the conduct of household surveys to collect data and inform the evaluation of gaps in Routine Data Systems. Use survey findings to design evidence-based interventions aimed at strengthening CRVS in Kenya.
• Design and execute studies using mixed methods approaches to investigate the effectiveness and impact of possible interventions aimed at improving CRVS  in Kenya.
• Use existing data to identify solutions to the problems and apply an appropriate framework to design an implementable Theory of Change (TOC) informed intervention package to improve the CRVS system.
• Collaborate with multidisciplinary teams to design studies, analyze data, interpret findings, and contribute to the development of evidence-based recommendations for improving Routine Data Systems.
• Publish research findings in high-quality scientific journals and present at conferences and workshops to disseminate knowledge and contribute to the fields of Implementation Science, Epidemiology, and Routine Data Systems.
• Provide technical expertise and guidance to project teams and partners on best practices for integrating CRVS data into health systems in Africa.
• Contribute to grant writing and proposal development to secure funding for research projects related to Routine Data Systems.
• Mentor and supervise junior researchers and students involved in research projects, providing guidance and support in their professional development.

QUALIFICATIONS:

• PhD in a relevant field (e.g., Public Health, Epidemiology, Health Services Research, Implementation Science) with a focus on Routine Data Systems in Africa.
• Strong background and demonstrated expertise in Implementation Science, Epidemiology, and Routine Data Systems in Africa, including Civil and Vital Registration Services.
• Experience working with mixed methods approaches, combining qualitative and quantitative research methods to investigate complex health systems issues.
• Proven track record of publishing research articles in reputable scientific journals, preferably in the fields of Implementation Science, Epidemiology, or related areas.
• Solid qualitative and strong analytical skills, including experience using statistical software (e.g., STATA, R) for data analysis and interpretation.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to effectively communicate complex research findings to diverse audiences.
• Experience in grant writing and proposal development, with a successful track record of securing research funding.
• Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and collaborate with researchers, policymakers, and healthcare practitioners in Africa.
• Strong organizational skills, attention to detail, and ability to manage multiple tasks and deadlines.
• Willingness to travel as needed.

Desirable Criteria:

• Experience with conducting Discrete Choice Experiments, including study design, sampling strategies, data collection, and analysis.

COMPETENCIES:

• Good writing skills
• Good presentation skills
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills a meticulous approach to documentation (including word processing and spreadsheet skills)
• Team working and ability to work in a multi-cultural environment
• Ability to work with limited supervision and meet deadlines

PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENT/CONDITIONS:

• Office based
• Field work in selected counties in Kenya
• Willingness to travel throughout the country.

Working hours:

Requires flexibility in the hours worked, with the priority being meeting the team’s research goals