Career Opportunities at ​The Aga Khan University

Department: Hospital Administration

Introduction

Reporting to the respective unit Nurse Manager, the Clinical Nurse is responsible to promote and maintain high standards of professional nursing care to meet the needs of patients and their families. S/he will participate actively in decision making related to patient care, and will ensure patients’ safety, dignity and respect are maintained at all times.

Requirements

• Diploma in Nursing (KRN / KRCHN) from an accredited School of Nursing; 
• Diploma in Critical care or Emergency Nursing;
• BLS / ACLS Certificate and other unit specific certification requirements; 
• Valid Nursing license;
• Member of relevant chapter / association;
• A Bachelor of Science in Nursing is an added advantage.

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Brain & Mind Institute
The Brain & Mind Institute seeks to build capacity in the domains of mental health and neuroscience.  In collaboration with partners, the Institute will advance leadership capacity and support service delivery across East Africa and other regions served by AKU. The Institute supports: (i) a hub for scholarship, exchange, and action on mental health issues, and (ii) educational, clinical, and community-based programs. Research focuses on the context of today’s youth in Africa and South Asia and programmatic offerings address mental health related issues, such as stigma and resiliency.  The Institute develops new curricula integrating behavioral sciences and mental health for AKU’s medical colleges and nursing education. A significant area of interest is the implementation of science-based programing in hospital and community clinics that translate new discoveries into prevention and treatment programs.

Area of Research for this Fixed Term Contract
Household Air Pollution (HAP) – a leading risk factor for premature death in low-income countries – is produced mainly by the incomplete combustion of polluting fuels for cooking, heating and lighting. In 2016, WHO estimated that about three billion people – 41% of the world’s population, primarily in LMICs – used polluting cooking sources. The damage to health caused by such widespread dependence on polluting energy sources is severe and extensive: in 2016, HAP from solid fuel use resulted in an estimated 3.8 million premature deaths. This toll is equivalent to 6.7% of global mortality, greater than that from malaria, tuberculosis and HIV/AIDS combined. Of these deaths, 403 000 were among children under 5 years of age.

In many parts of the world, children are especially vulnerable to HAP because they spend a great deal of time in the home and with their mothers as the latter tend the hearth. Smoke emitted from burning biomass, coal, charcoal and kerosene to meet the basic needs of cooking, heating and lighting is the primary contributor to HAP. Burning these fuels in inefficient devices produces complex mixtures of contaminants. In dwellings with poor ventilation, emissions of fine particulate matter and other pollutants from stoves can reach 100 times the maximum exposure level recommended by WHO.

Long-term exposure to air pollution—particularly PM2.5 and CO levels—impedes cognitive performance, becoming more pronounced as people age (Lavy et al. 2012; Zhanga et al. 2018). PM2.5 has a larger negative impact on groups with higher rates of asthma while CO affects neurological functioning (Lavy et al. 2012). Decline in cognitive function can therefore affect memory and attention, which can result in forgetfulness, inability to recall, and difficulty in decision making. Cognitive decline is also closely linked to poorer mental health (Kuhn et al.2019). Reductions in household air pollution will not only result in improved human morbidity and mortality outcomes but also upon cognitive performance (Shehab and Poe, 2019). A growing body of research similarly suggests that both prenatal and postnatal exposure to air pollution can negatively influence neurodevelopment, lead to lower cognitive test outcomes and influence the development of behavioral disorders such as autism spectrum disorders and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder, as well as negatively affect children’s overall mental and motor development (WHO, 2018).

There are high chances that communities of more polluted households (mainly rural and urban poor) will have, on average, worse cognitive ability than those living in homes with cleaner air. Further work is now required to better map out the effect of PM and CO concentration upon cognitive performance. Results from the mapping studies will provide the basis upon which intervention strategies may be designed. Achieving universal access to clean, safe household energy is a top priority on the global sustainable development agenda, reflected in SDG 7: “ensure access to affordable, reliable, sustainable and modern energy for all”. Similarly, substantially reducing the number of deaths and illnesses from inter alia hazardous chemicals and air is a key target of SDG 3: “Ensure healthy lives and promote wellbeing for all at all ages”. Both goals can be achieved simultaneously through common strategies and interventions at policy level, within households and other stakeholder engagement and actions. Little has been published on cognitive performance and mental health and factors that could influence it among children in sub-Saharan Africa. Similarly, limited number of PM and CO studies and data exist upon which meaningful health mapping studies may be planned and executed in the region, and thirdly, although its responsible for many more deaths each year than the dreaded malaria, air pollution-related health impacts have not received the high-profile they deserve on national and even regional (RECs and African Union) political agendas. Resolving these knowledge gaps is a necessary first step towards transforming the region’s societies towards equity and resilience.

The East Africa Institute and the Brain & Mind Institute of the Aga Khan University seek to recruit a Research Fellow to  study the relationship between Household Air Pollution (HAP) and cognitive development / mental health  of children and develop and disseminate appropriate interventions.

This positon reports to the Director, East Africa Institute, Aga Khan University, with the expectation of joint accountabilities to both the research interests of the East Africa Institute and the Brain & Mind Institute.

Responsibilities

•  Review literature on impact of HAP (particularly PM and CO) on child health in general and neurodevelopment/mental health in particular. He/she will also identify documented social, technical or policy interventions in the LMICs paying special attention to barriers and enablers. He/she will also assess implications of these preliminary findings for Africa’s development and recommend knowledge gaps for further research.
• Conduct interviews with relevant experts and individuals who can share insights on the nature, scope and implications of HAP as well as the current situation pertaining to mitigation strategies in an African context.
• Develop a methodology for mapping household PM and CO emissions upon cognitive performance and mental health in Kenyan children and propose a pilot study.
• Organize a workshop to discuss the findings of literature review and interviews and the conceptual framework of a mapping study with key stakeholders for input/validation. The objective of the workshop should include the enrichment of understanding about these issues across relevant student groups in the region. 
• Prepare a submission to the African Committee of Experts on the Rights and Welfare of the Child—an institution executing the African Children’s Charter.
• Review and submit recommendations to the Committee reviewing the Kenya National Biofuel Strategy.
• Using a health rights lens, and building on the pre-identified research gaps determined from the literature review and interviews, develop a research proposal for submission to the Open Society Initiative for Eastern Africa.
• Identify key activities, institutions and policy processes, that EAI and BMI should be interacting with to enhance influence towards realizing ideals enshrined in SDG3 and SDG7.
• Set up a google database of HAP/mental health literature gathered during the study.
• Track and support opportunities for future research specialization in this area.
• Explore opportunities to attract new grants and new students in this area.

Requirements

• Master’s Degree in Public Health or Environmental Health or similar qualifications
• Ability to work effectively within a collegial system of governance, recognizing the roles and responsibilities of colleagues, faculty members;
• Ability to demonstrate strategic thinking, creativity, diplomacy and Emotional Intelligence.
• Excellent writing and research skills

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Applications are invited from appropriately qualified candidates for the position of Research Assistant – Laboratory Technologist in our Department of Pathology, Medical College.

The Laboratory Technologist will conduct all laboratory bench work, biorepository activities and documentation related to patient recruitment for research projects at AKU and other study sites.

Responsibilities

• Maintain relevant databases and records;
• Perform blood and pathology sample processing, storage and documentation; 
• Timely submission of reports;
• Monitor and manage routine and planned preventive maintenance of equipment;
• Provide Principal Investigator and Statistician with complete records of pathology and biorepository data.

Requirements

Applicants for the position must have a Higher Diploma / Bachelor of Science in Medical Laboratory Sciences from a recognized institution. S/he must have three (3) years relevant working experience and must be registered by the Kenya Medical Laboratory Technologists and Technician Board. 

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Applications are invited from appropriately qualified candidates for the position of Phlebotomist (Research) in our Department of Pathology, Medical College.

The Phlebotomist (Research), will recruit participants to ongoing studies, coordinate and collect blood samples and maintain study records as required at AKU and other study sites.

Responsibilities

• Recruit study participants including obtaining informed consent;
• Maintain a log for sample collection based on the study protocols;
• Coordinate sample collection;
• Attend to study participants’ queries;
• Distribute samples to the biorepository for storage.

Requirements

• Applicants for the position must have a Kenya Certificate of Secondary education C or equivalent, Certificate in Phlebotomy/Certificate in Medical Laboratory Sciences
• A minimum of two (2) years' relevant working experience is mandatory.

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Applications are invited from appropriately qualified candidates for the position of Research Assistant – Laboratory Technologist in the study. Staff will be based at the research sites in Kilifi County.

Position Summary:

The research assistant will provide administrative support in data collection, data entry and other aspects of research to the study principal investigator and project team. This role is based primarily at the health facilities but may include roles in the community. The role includes shift work including nights, weekends and public holidays.

Responsibilities

• Sampling, collection, transport, processing, analysis of biological samples for research participants for PRECISE study and related studies
• Under guidance from the laboratory specialist, contribute to quality control and quality improvement in the study laboratory and other clinical areas relevant to sample handling
• Sample logging, data collection, data entry for all activities related to sample handling into relevant study database and health facility registers.
• Create daily and monthly summary reports for activities as guided by the study coordinator
• Communicate to families and community members about the study, as appropriate and as guided by the lab specialist and study coordinator
• Regularly report any relevant events that affect the study to the laboratory specialist
• Conduct all study activities in adherence to provided guidelines and protocols and with utmost confidentiality and ethical practice
• Alongside health facility staff and as guided by the study laboratory specialist, contribute to routine sample handling processes at the health facility
• Ensuring timely submission of all the required progress reports

Requirements

• Diploma in Medical Laboratory Sciences or equivalent qualification from an institution recognized by Kenya Medical Laboratory Technicians and Technologist Board (KMLTTB)
• Registration certificate and valid practicing license from KMLTTB
• Basic Computer literacy and training in Microsoft Office.
• Strong organizational and communication skills

Essential experience –    

• Good written and verbal skills in English and Kiswahili
• Relevant experience working at a laboratory associated with a clinical or research facility

Additional Experience -

• One (1) year experience in a busy laboratory
• Experience in public health facility settings
• Experience in data entry and reporting using HMIS systems or study specific research databases or other electronic data collection systems within laboratory settings

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Applications are invited from appropriately qualified candidates for the position of Instructional Design E-Learning Specialist – Department of Medicine Aga Khan University. 

Reporting to the Principal Investigator, this position will assist in the adaptation of an Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) training curriculum to an e-learning format for use in training of clinicians and pharmacists at Aga Khan University outpatient clinics. The Specialist will be tasked with creating/improving instructional design elements of course materials, and will work with identified experts to adapt existing training materials into interactive e-learning formats to be delivered in an e-Learning platform. The Specialist will work in collaboration with an E-Learning Lead to ensure that content is consistent with established competencies, appropriate to student learning needs, uses appropriate training methodologies, and conforms to best practices in online learning.

Responsibilities

• Developing storyboards and content worksheets for e-learning courses.
• Analyzing existing training materials to adapt trainings using best practices in adult learning and online learning.
• Creating appropriate learning activities, including assesments and examiniations, based existing course material and learning objectives.
• Creating interactive features from existing content
• Supporting the capture of content audio narration from experts and using software tools to edit and synchronize recorded audio.
• Identifiying existing learning resources to include in courses.
• Assembling e-learning content into a learning management system (LMS).
• Providing technical support to students in online courses.
• Assisting faculty and subject matter experts in adapting learning content for e-learning formats.
• Assessing and providing feedback to development team on obstacles and opportunities for e-learning in the Kenyan context

Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in education, instructional design, or related field; or equivalent professional experience.
• 2-3 years experience in adapting curriculum to e-learning formats.
• Experience with a variety of e-learning formats and methodologies.
• Familiarity with basic audio and video editing.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a project team.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
• Flexibility in schedule to accommodate collaboration with partners in international time zones
• Experience with e-learning authoring tools such as Adobe Captivate and Articulate Storyline.
• Experience using and configuring Learning Management Systems such as Moodle.
• Experience with web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript 
• Experience with developing training material for health care professionals, specifically relating to HIV and other infectious diseases.

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The Aga Khan University-East Africa (AKU-EA) through its Research Office in Mombasa is conducting a study: “Pregnancy Care Integrating Translational Science Everywhere (PRECISE)” in Kaloleni and Rabai Sub-counties in Kilifi County, Kenya. The study will involve following up pregnant women from early pregnancy through delivery to the post-delivery and it will include local travel within the study area- between health facilities and to communities. Applications are invited from appropriately qualified candidates for the position of Research Assistant - Nurse in the study. The staff will be based at the research sites in Kilifi County.

Position Summary:

The research assistant - nurse will be required to support the study’s activities at the health facility. This will include screening and recruitment of study participants, clinical and non-clinical data collection, sample collection and handling and additional study procedures.

Responsibilities

• Liaise with health facility staff to identify potentially eligible study participants for recruitment into specific studies and sub-studies
• Screening and recruitment of study participants and administering informed consent. 
• Clinical and non-clinical data collection for study participants
• Perform anthropometric measurements and vital signs measurements and other clinical tests and study procedures for participants
• Contribute to collection, transport, logging and initial processing of biological samples 
• Support health facility staff in obtaining and recording other data relevant for the study.
• Contribute to follow up of participants in their homes and communities. 
• Create and plan for data collection activities summary reports for activities as guided by the study coordinator on a daily, weekly and monthly basis
• Communicate to families and community members about the study, as appropriate and as guided by the study coordinator
• Regularly report any relevant events that affect the study to the study coordinator

Requirements

• Diploma in Kenya Registered Nurse Midwife or Kenya Registered Community Health Nurse or equivalent.
• Valid Practicing license from the Nursing Council of Kenya. 
• Basic Computer literacy and training in Microsoft Office.

Essential experience - 

• Experience working at the maternity unit, antenatal care unit or child health units at hospital or health center level

Additional Experience - 

• Experience in research activities at community or health facility level
• Experience in mobile data collection tools
• Experience in collecting and handling biological samples

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Applications are invited from qualified candidates for the position of Financial Analyst in the Budget & Planning Department of the Finance Division.

Reporting to the Assistant Manager Budget & Planning, the Financial Analyst will ensure monthly MIS reports are developed and discussed with departmental heads; and coordinate the budget process for AKUH, N.

Responsibilities

• On a monthly basis, prepare Financial, Statistical, Budget Variance Reports and the Newsletter.
• Present Budget Variance Reports to departmental heads.
• Prepare budgets for all departments in consultation with the Budget & Planning leadership, various departmental heads and Program Administrators.
• Prepare feasibility studies for all projects and equipment.
• Link with departmental managers to enable them understand financial and budget processes in line with the organization’s goals.
• Work with departmental managers to map out overall pricing strategy.
• Prepare weighted costs schedule for all departments.
• Participate in all team efforts as departmental needs arise.

Requirements

• Applicants must have a degree in Finance, Accounting, Business Administration, Statistics or any other related field. 
• CPA (K) and CFA professional qualifications will be an added advantage. 
• S/he should have at least 6 years’ experience in business analysis with specialization in management accounting and budgeting for financially complex organizations. 
• The successful candidate should be computer literate with excellent knowledge in MS Excel. 
• S/He should be a team player with highly developed corporate goal focus and interpersonal skills.

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Applications are invited from candidates who meet the requirements for the position of CCTV Operator in the Safety and Security Department.

Reporting to the Security Coordinator, the CCTV Operator will operate and monitor all systems, including CCTV, within the Control Centre in a professional and efficient manner. S/he will ensure integrity, accuracy and confidentiality of all information gained by compliance with quality standards and legislation. The CCTV Operator will also ensure the safety and security of people and property within public areas and other facilities via surveillance of the CCTV network.

Responsibilities

• Ensure smooth/ uninterrupted operations of CCTV and other electronic surveillance/alarm systems; 
• Operate and monitor the CCTV System and allied surveillance alarm devices; 
• Inform / alert on any potential problem detected through the CCTV or Electronic Surveillance Systems
• Train new staff on the operation and manning of electronic surveillance/alarm equipment; 
• Ensure safe custody and serviceability of the CCTV and allied electronic equipment installed in the Communication Centre;
• Operate the Radio Communication Base Station, attend to telephone calls and log-in all-important events;
• Maintain video cassette record of the monitoring station;
• Prepare and subsequently monitor the electronic security sections duty roster.

Requirements

• Applicant should have a CCTV certificate and/or Diploma from a recognized institution.
• A minimum of two (2) years’ experience in a similar role is preferred. 
• S/he should have an understanding of legal and human rights legislation relating to CCTV and its impact on the scheme. 
• A proven ability to deal tactfully and effectively with people at all levels within the organization, external agencies, contractors and members of the general public is desirable.
• The candidate should have experience in the use of computer based technology to provide reports.  
• S/he should have effective written and oral communication skills and a valid certificate of good conduct.

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Introduction

This position will be based in the Department of Population Health reporting to the study Principal Investigator, Optima Nutrition Modelling Study, Kenya. The appointee will be involved in managing and coordinating the study’s day-to-day activities.

Responsibilities

• Managing and coordinating day-to-day study activities in the preparation of training and implementation of research activities, in compliance to the Study protocol and study Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs)
• Coordinating visits with County Departments of Health to review and collect data 
• Learn and lead in the use of Optima Suite of modelling tools 
• Engage with study stakeholders
• Monitoring the research activities to optimize the quality of the project outputs, and adherence to the time schedule, budget and resource management 
• Developing and production of communication tools and materials and dissemination
• Generating ongoing project reports and documentation of study progress, including summarization of findings and development of visuals.
• Ensuring compliance to all policies and guidelines in respect to the University and funding agency
• Enforcing agreed on quality assurance measures to ensure quality of data is maintained throughout the study
• Contribute to the study’s scientific outputs, including manuscripts, presentations, reports etc.

Requirements

• Applicant must have a Bachelor’s Degree, in quantitative and/or computing studies (Statistics/Medical Statistics/Biostatistics/Biometry/Epidemiology/Medical Informatics/IT/Computer Science or related fields). Ongoing MSc will be an added advantage
• A minimum of two (2) years’ experience coordinating complex health research studies
• At least one (1) year experience in data analysis using advanced approaches
• The successful candidate must be experienced in working with multiple stakeholders 
• Demonstrated capacity to generate good quality project reports
• Strong attention to detail and good organizational skills
• Good communication, interpersonal and analytical skills
• Ability to work independently and adherence to time-lines are desirable.