This role involves executing key study activities related to participant management, data collection, and qualitative research coordination within the Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) based in Kisumu. KEMRI is a State Corporation established through the Science and Technology (Amendment) Act of 1979 for carrying out health research in Kenya.
Duties and Responsibilities
The Research Assistant will be responsible for:
- Identify, mobilize, screen, consent, and enroll eligible participants while providing clear study information and appointment reminders.
- Trace and re-engage participants who miss visits or are lost to follow-up through home visits, phone calls, community outreach, and motorbike tracing where necessary.
- Maintain accurate and secure records of participant contact, follow-up outcomes, and retention activities in line with study protocols.
- Build strong, trust-based relationships with participants and community stakeholders to support engagement and retention.
- Collaborate with the study team to identify and address barriers to retention using culturally sensitive and ethical approaches.
- Coordinate qualitative research activities including planning, recruitment, logistics, consenting, and facilitation of interviews/FGDs.
- Transcribe, manage, and analyze qualitative data using tools such as NVivo, Atlas.ti, or Dedoose while ensuring confidentiality and proper storage.
- Prepare reports, summaries, and dissemination outputs such as abstracts, presentations, and manuscript contributions.
- Accurately enter clinical and research data into systems (e.g., REDCap), complete CRFs, and support database reporting.
- Assist with field logistics, supply management, and provide regular updates on recruitment, retention, and data activities during team meetings.
Required Qualifications
Candidates must possess the following qualifications:
- Diploma in Community Health, Social Work, Community Development or any other related field.
- Diploma in Social Sciences.
- Bachelor’s Degree in the above fields will be an an added advantage.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
- High level computer and internet skills with daily access to internet.
