Research Associate, Brian and Mind Institute, EA at Aga Khan University Hospital

Job Purpose/Summary 

The pivotal role of a Research Associate at the BMI involves a multifaceted approach to advancing knowledge and promoting mental well-being. In addition to participant recruitment, administration of interviews and tests, and data management, the Research Associate collects, analyzes, and reports data. They also coordinate with research stakeholders, assist in disseminating project results through various channels, and maintain instrumentation related to field or laboratory research. Moreover, the Research Associate provides technical support to researchers, contribute to designing research projects, and independently conduct work complementary to overall research objectives. Furthermore, they train and mentor others in research-related protocols, models, and instrumentation, while also having the opportunity to pursue independent research projects under the mentorship of Principal Investigators, thereby furthering BMI's research objectives and goals.

Key Roles and Responsibilities 

• Research Design Contribution: Provide input on methodology, sampling, and data collection tools to enhance research design and improve study processes and outcomes.
• Participant Recruitment: Develop strategies to attract eligible participants, engage with them to explain study objectives, screen for eligibility, and obtain informed consent.
• Data Collection, Analysis, and Management: Collect quantitative and qualitative data through surveys, interviews, and focus groups; organize and clean data; conduct analysis using tools like SPSS and NVivo; ensure ethical data management and produce comprehensive analysis reports.
• Research Partner and Stakeholder Coordination: Collaborate with research partners to ensure smooth project implementation, communicate timelines, and address challenges that arise.
• Instrumentation Maintenance: Ensure proper maintenance and calibration of research instruments, troubleshoot technical issues, and maintain records of maintenance activities.
• Technical Support for Researchers: Assist researchers in following protocols, provide guidance on data collection methods, and troubleshoot data-related issues.
• Manuscript Development: Draft initial manuscript versions based on research findings and support submission to journals.

Relevant Experience and Qualifications 

• Education: Bachelor’s degree in Anthropology, Sociology, Psychology, Public Health, or a related field (Master’s degree preferred).
• Additional Qualifications: Certifications or coursework in research methods, data analysis, or related areas are advantageous but not required.
• Experience: 2-3 years of experience in research coordination, data collection, analysis, and report writing, preferably in academic or research settings.
• Skills: Familiarity with both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and data analysis.
• Publications: Experience drafting manuscripts, with at least two peer-reviewed publications.
• Ethics Training: Certified in human research ethics.