Research Officer (Social Science) - Mombasa at Kenya Medical Research - KEMRI

Key Responsibilities:

• To contribute to the development of research proposal as needed, including through reviewing literature and synthesising learning from reviews and supporting the development of data collection tools.
• To support, and in designated instances take primary responsibility for; community sensitization, stakeholder engagement, data collection including, supporting planning for fieldwork, and managing all interactions with study participants in ways that positively support ethical conduct and the collection of high-quality data. Given the nature of the study, fieldwork might sometimes necessitate weekend work.
• To contribute to the management and analysis of data from the study and take primary responsibility for analysis in designated areas.
• To support the dissemination of study findings as necessary, including through the preparation of drafts of reports and manuscripts for publication; making presentations at scientific meetings, and supporting feedback to study participants.
• To actively contribute to developing their capacity in social science and related research methods, particularly for qualitative research. This includes engaging with a wide literature on relevant topics and social science methods, active participation in pieces of training provided, and focused efforts to continuously seek and act on feedback on performance.
• To attend departmental and programme scientific meetings, including Programme seminars and regular meetings of the Social Science Group.
• And any other duties that may be assigned from time to time.

Vacancy Requirements:

•  Minimum A Master’s degree in a relevant subject such as Social Science & Humanities Anthropology or sociology-, from a recognized institution.    Mandatory
• At least 3 years of research experience, ideally including experience in collecting and analysing qualitative research data through interviews, focus group discussions and non-participant observations, health systems research, stakeholder engagement.    Mandatory
• Evidence of ability to produce and publish research.    Mandatory
• Computer literacy with proficiency in Microsoft applications.    Mandatory
• Knowledge of NVivo (qualitative analysis) software will be an added advantage.    Added Advantage
• Willingness to travel within Kenya and spend time conducting field work.    Desirable
• Excellent understanding of the Kenyan health system.    Desirable
• Experience of participatory research and co-design.    Desirable
• Excellent organisational and communication skills.    Desirable
• Experience of engaging with stakeholders at community, hospital, county and national level.    Desirable
• Demonstrated high levels of integrity and confidentiality    Mandatory
• Excellent interpersonal, verbal and written communication skills    Mandatory
• Ability to work with diverse, multidisciplinary teams and build strong relationships with internal and external collaborators    Mandatory
• Excellent analytical skills and ability to deliver quality outputs within strict timelines.    Mandatory
• Flexibility, adaptability, multi-tasking and attention to detail    Mandatory