Research Assistant for Mental Health Research Studies at SolidarMed Lesotho

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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 currently building its mental and behavioural health clinical research portfolio in Butha-Buthe and Mokhotlong districts. Two clinical trials will begin this year testing innovative treatment approaches to reduce common mental health problems, including depression, alcohol, and other substance use. The interventions used will be based on an evidence-based treatment guide for non-specialist providers.

We are looking for two (2) research assistants who will be responsible for study data collection for these two clinical trials. Assessments will be primarily quantitative, but opportunities for qualitative data collection may also be possible. Research assistants will also support the team in administrative tasks as needed, such as translations of study materials and preparation of study protocols. The research assistants will work within a larger research team, with team members based in Lesotho and Switzerland. Research assistants will work closely with the Lesotho-based research coordinator. Research assistants will be based in Butha-Buthe district, but with regular travel to Mokhotlong.

Responsibilities:

  • Recruit research participants, which includes traveling to recruitment sites, conduct screening of potentially eligible participants, make follow-up phone calls, and logistical management of respondents.
  • Conduct informed consent with participants.
  • Conduct study quantitative assessments.
  • Conduct qualitative interviews, as needed.
  • Track and retain participants throughout the study.
  • Assist with additional research administration, as needed.

Requirements:

  • Bachelor’s level degree, ideally in psychology, public health, or a related social science discipline, or Bachelor’s level degree in unrelated field but can demonstrate competence in social science research in another way (e.g., through prior work experience)
  • At least one year of experience collecting quantitative data in a research setting
  • Comfortable interacting with participants
  • Does not hold stigma against individuals living with mental health or substance use problems
  • Excellent interpersonal skills
  • Fluent in both English and Sesotho
  • IT skills including Microsoft Office and Google Drive, and use of the internet
  • Previous experience of data collection software programs, such as RedCap
  • Ability to work well within a team
  • Willing to regularly travel between Butha Buthe and Mokhotlong districts and spend several weeks at a time in Mokhotlong

In addition to the above, the following would be advantageous:

  • Mental or behavioural health research experience
  • Interest in advancing education (e.g., pursuing Masters’ or PhD degree)
  • Experience with qualitative data collection (e.g., individual interviews, focus group discussions)

How to Apply:

Qualified candidates should send applications to [email protected] .  Only electronic applications are accepted. Subject line: Mental Health Research Assistant. Closing date for applications is Wednesday March 29th, 2023.

Applications must include:

  • Motivation letter that clearly outlines: (1) summary of past research experience (quantitative and qualitative) and (2) personal research and career plans over the next 5 years.
  • Detailed curriculum vitae, indicating relevant work experience and contact details of three professional referees.
  • Certified copies of most relevant qualifications
  • Certified copy of Identity Document/Passport

NB: Only short-listed candidates will be contacted

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