Research Assistant at University of Nairobi

The Project:

Longitudinal Investigation of Dynamics of IUD use in Africa (LIDIA Study) is based at the Institute of Tropical and Infectious Diseases (UNITID), within the Faculty of Health and Social Sciences. The study aims to document long-term continuation rates and identify factors influencing the discontinuation of the hormonal IUD in Nigeria, Kenya, and Malawi. The findings will help inform future efforts to scale up the method.

The Position:

• The Research Assistant will be responsible for collecting data in accordance with the approved
• LIDIA research study protocol. Reporting to the Principal Investigator, the role will involve conducting structured face-to-face and phone interviews.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Consent and recruit participants into the study following guidelines in approved protocol.
• Ensure availability of qualitative data collection tools at the study site.
• Interview, record, store and send data to main server using a tablet.
• Review data obtained from interview for completeness and accuracy.
• Maintain participant’s confidentiality and security of data gathered.
• Maintain and ensure safekeeping of tablets (s) used for qualitative data collection.
• Ensure field qualitative data collection processes (participants’ appointment visits) have set timelines per study protocol and meet established deadlines.
• Provides reimbursement to study participants and maintain accurate records of disbursements.
• Assists in monitoring study progress including updating timelines as necessary.
• Participants in project data and performance reviews as required with the study team.
• Perform other related duties regarding the survey as may be assigned by the PI.

Job Specification:

• A degree in social sciences, community health or its equivalent.
• At least two (2) years relevant experience in qualitative research/ health related surveys
• Working experience at the level of a field research supervisor will be an added advantage.
• Experience in electronic data collection using ODK will be an added advantage.
• Previous working experience in a research study involving women and/ or family planning services will be an added advantage.

Required skills, Knowledge and Abilities:

• Good communication (Fluent in both Kiswahili and English).
• Excellent organizational skills and ability to follow study-specific procedures guidelines meticulously.
• Excellent interpersonal communication skills, including ability to adapt to changing situations and group dynamics.
• Previous training and experience in qualitative research data collection methods.
• Research ethics and collaboration skills.
• Ability to work under minimum supervision.