Research Assistant – Qualitative Studies

Research Assistant – Qualitative Studies (2 Positions)

Zambart is an autonomous research institution based in Zambia, headquartered at the University of Zambia’s Ridgeway Campus in Lusaka. Globally recognized for its cross-disciplinary research on HIV and Tuberculosis, the organization has significantly influenced policy and practice at both national and international levels. Its research initiatives have since expanded to address a wider range of critical public health challenges. The team at Zambart comprises specialists from diverse fields, including epidemiology, clinical science, social science, laboratory research, operations research, health systems and services, health policy analysis, health economics, health communication, and counseling.

Our Vision

The primary objective is to perform rigorous interdisciplinary health research focused on significant public health challenges in Zambia, thereby enhancing health policies and practices and achieving universal health improvements.

Our Mission

The position involves performing top-tier health research and educating outstanding health researchers. In partnership with the Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) in Antwerp, Belgium, Zambart is executing a PrEPforTwo study. As part of a research initiative supported by the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO) in Belgium, the position is fully funded.

About PrEPforTwo

PrEPforTwo is a comprehensive mixed-methods research study designed to explore the incorporation of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and syphilis testing within antenatal and postnatal care services in Zambia. The study will specifically investigate PrEP utilization patterns among pregnant and postpartum adolescent girls and women while also evaluating syphilis testing rates, treatment protocols, and associated health outcomes. The qualitative aspect of this research will investigate the individual, social, and health system determinants that shape PrEP decision-making among pregnant and postpartum adolescent girls and women, their partners, healthcare providers, and community stakeholders. Additionally, it will assess preferences regarding postpartum PrEP delivery methods. The resulting insights will guide the development of woman-centered, contextually relevant strategies aimed at enhancing integrated HIV and syphilis prevention services and reducing maternal and perinatal HIV and syphilis transmission.

Position

Qualitative Research Assistants (2 Positions) – Full-Time Role

Reporting to: Study Supervisor

Job Location: Zambart House, Garden Site 3 Health Centre, and Chicana Level One Referral Hospital—all located in Lusaka—serve as key healthcare facilities within Zambia’s public health system. These institutions play integral roles in delivering primary, secondary, and tertiary care, supporting both routine medical services and specialized treatment programs.

Duration: Short-term

Position Summary: The Qualitative Research Assistant will collaborate closely with the Study Supervisor and Principal Investigator to assist in executing the qualitative segment of the PrEPforTwo study. This role involves conducting qualitative data collection, including performing in-depth interviews and facilitating focus group discussions with pregnant and postpartum adolescent girls and women, as well as male partners, healthcare providers, and community members. This role is well-suited for an emerging scholar in the field of qualitative social science research, with a keen focus on HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and their integration into antenatal and postnatal care services.

Key Responsibilities and Duties

Key responsibilities and duties will encompass, but may not be restricted to:

We are seeking a skilled professional to oversee the planning and execution of qualitative research initiatives as part of the PrEPforTwo study.

Presenting study protocols and findings to key stakeholders and participants within the study communities.

Delivering comprehensive study details to prospective participants and securing their informed consent, all while upholding strict standards of privacy, confidentiality, and respect.

Qualitative research tasks entail recruiting participants and gathering data through various qualitative techniques, such as focus group discussions and interviews.

Comprehensive field notes and interview summaries must be meticulously documented.

Accurately and promptly transcribing audio recordings of collected data is required.

Overseeing and systematically structuring qualitative research data while ensuring strict adherence to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines and established study documentation protocols.

Facilitating qualitative data analysis processes, such as expedited qualitative evaluations, is a key responsibility of this role.

Facilitates the development and dissemination of key study deliverables, such as policy briefs, formal reports, slide presentations, and peer-reviewed academic publications.

Contributes to the development of technical and progress reports, which are submitted to the study funder.

Assigned tasks by the study supervisor or principal investigator will be carried out as required.

Qualifications and Experience

A recognized higher education institution must award a bachelor’s degree in Sociology, Anthropology, Demography, Public Health, Development Studies, Psychology, Social Work, Gender Studies, or a closely related field within the social sciences or health-related disciplines.

Proficiency in qualitative research methodologies, such as conducting in-depth interviews and facilitating focus group discussions, is required.

With a proven track record in projects focused on HIV, sexual and reproductive health, maternal health, or implementation research, relevant prior experience is essential.

Proven ability to communicate effectively in both written and verbal formats.

Organizational proficiency and meticulous attention to detail are essential.

Demonstrates exceptional analytical skills, exercises sound judgment, and upholds high ethical standards.

Proficient in working autonomously while maintaining strong collaboration within a cross-functional team environment.

Proficient in Microsoft Office applications and other essential computer skills.

You should demonstrate a keen enthusiasm for advancing a career in academic or public health research.

Professional Version:

Ability to adapt to and operate effectively in diverse environments, including community-based and healthcare facility settings.

Possessing strong English language skills along with proficiency in at least one local language—ideally Nyanja or Bemba—is essential.

Desirable Requirements:

Active involvement in community initiatives or research endeavors is a prerequisite for this role. Candidates should demonstrate a track record of engagement in such activities to qualify for consideration.

Capable of thriving in a fast-paced and demanding setting while maintaining flexibility with work hours.

High level of confidentiality and maturity.

Proficiency in the research community is essential for this role.

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