SolidarMed is a leading non-profit organization working to improve the health care of 2.5 million people in Kenya, Lesotho, Mozambique, South Africa, Tanzania, Zambia and Zimbabwe. Working together with national partners to strengthen health systems and community capacities, we are committed to scientific evidence and policy dialogue both as foundations and objectives of our work.
In close collaboration with the Ministry of Health of Lesotho, SolidarMed is involved in supporting routine viral load testing and care in Butha-Buthe and Mokhotlong districts. In addition to clinical care, there are several ongoing and upcoming studies including a clinical trial (VITAL trial) in which the viral load database (VLDB) plays a critical role.
We are looking for a dynamic, motivated, and experienced Research Data Assistant, who can oversee and support smooth flow and retrieval of data from the current VLDB. Routine and regular data entry and cleaning is critical in this role. The research data clerk will play a key role in entering data or overseeing data entry into the VLDB, confirming VL results and liaising with the relevant field teams/staff as well as liaising with both the larger research team in Lesotho and Switzerland. Advanced data management skills would be a clear advantage.
Responsibilities:
- Complete data entry into the viral load database.
- Confirm data imported into the database against the viral load forms to make sure it is complete and accurate.
- Ensure only patients with complete information are confirmed and that missing information is followed up with the facility before confirmation.
- Ensure completeness of data by following up with health facilities and the laboratory.
- Ideally, use statistical software tools to create and regularly implement data quality checks.
- Work closely with the Data manager to ensure clean Database.
- Provide regular updates to the Line manager on progress.
- Rapidly respond to queries raised by study teams relying on the VLDB.
- Participate in weekly/monthly staff meetings.
- Work closely with an international team of researchers.
Requirements:
- A Bachelor’s degree in Statistics or any related M&E related qualification with 2 years’ experience, OR Certificate with 4 years’ experience.
- Experienced in database usage.
- Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English and Sesotho.
- Proactive communication.
- IT skills including Microsoft Office suite, Access.
- Ability to work well within a team and learn new software programs.
- Willingness to be flexible and assist with various tasks in the unit as the need arises.
In addition to the above, the following would be advantageous:
- Experience using (STATA, R, SQL)
- HIV research experience
- Demonstrable experience in data collection, capturing, verification, ideally in a research context
- Experience or interest in writing or contributing to scientific abstracts or manuscripts
How to Apply:
Qualified candidates should send applications to [email protected]. Only electronic applications are accepted. Subject line: Research Data Assistant. Closing date for applications is Friday December 30th, 2022.
Applications must include:
- A cover letter or Motivation letter one page strictly, which must include/describe the following: (1) Data collection and verification experience (2) any prior experiences conducting research; if not, explain why you are still a good fit for the position and (3) Data base experience and programmes used.
- Detailed Curriculum Vitae indicating relevant work experience and contact details of 3 professional referees (one preferably be previous or current HR)
- Certified copies of your latest and /or most relevant qualification
- Certified copy of Identity Document/Passport
NB: Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.