Qualitative Research Support Specialist

Zambart, an independent research organization based at the University of Zambia’s Ridgeway Campus in Lusaka, has earned international recognition for its interdisciplinary research on HIV and tuberculosis. Its work has significantly influenced HIV and TB policy and practice at both national and global levels. The organization’s research scope now extends to critical public health challenges beyond these diseases. Zambart’s team 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 counselling.

Zambart’s vision is to spearhead high-caliber, cross-disciplinary health research initiatives addressing critical public health challenges in Zambia, with the ultimate goal of informing and enhancing health policies and practices for the benefit of all citizens. Its mission is to lead innovative and rigorous health research initiatives while cultivating the next generation of distinguished health researchers.

In partnership with the Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM) in Antwerp, Belgium, Zambart is executing a project called PrEPforTwo, funded by the Research Foundation – Flanders (FWO) in Belgium. PrEPforTwo is a comprehensive mixed-methods research initiative designed to evaluate the seamless incorporation of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and syphilis testing within antenatal and postnatal care systems in Zambia. The study focuses on analyzing PrEP utilization patterns among pregnant and postpartum adolescent girls and women, while also evaluating the processes, efficacy, and outcomes of syphilis testing and treatment. The qualitative research component will investigate the individual, social, and healthcare system factors 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 for postpartum PrEP delivery methods. The resulting insights will guide the development of woman-centered, contextually tailored strategies to enhance integrated HIV and syphilis prevention services, ultimately reducing maternal and perinatal HIV and syphilis transmission.

Zambart is currently seeking applications for the role of Qualitative Research Assistant to contribute to the PrEPforTwo study. Qualified candidates are sought for two full-time positions as Qualitative Research Assistants. The position reports to the Study Supervisor. The job location is at Zambart House, the Garden Site 3 Health Centre, and Lusaka’s Chicana Level One Referral Hospital, which collectively serve as key healthcare facilities within Zambia. The duration is short-term.

Position Summary: The Qualitative Research Assistant will collaborate closely with the Study Supervisor and Principal Investigator to facilitate the qualitative phase of the PrEPforTwo study. The incumbent will undertake qualitative data collection, which involves performing in-depth interviews and organizing focus group discussions with pregnant and postpartum adolescent girls and women, male partners, healthcare providers, and community members. This role presents an excellent opportunity for a researcher in the early stages of their career, particularly those with a background in qualitative social science research and a keen focus on HIV and sexually transmitted infections (STIs). Additionally, the position seeks candidates who are passionate about incorporating HIV/STI prevention strategies into antenatal and postnatal care services.

Key accountabilities will encompass, but are not limited to, the following responsibilities:

The planning and execution of qualitative research activities for the PrEPforTwo study are required. As a liaison, you will communicate the study’s objectives and activities to stakeholders and participants within the study communities. Gathering study details and securing informed consent from participants, while ensuring the preservation of privacy, confidentiality, and respect, is essential. Qualitative research activities, encompassing participant recruitment and data collection through qualitative methodologies such as focus group discussions and interviews, will be conducted. Composing thorough documentation of field observations and synthesizing key insights from interview discussions is required. This role entails meticulously recording detailed notes during fieldwork and developing comprehensive summaries of interview content to ensure accuracy and clarity. Accurately and promptly transcribing audio recordings of collected data constitutes a fundamental responsibility of this role. Overseeing the collection, compilation, and organization of qualitative research data in strict adherence to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines and established study documentation protocols is required. Facilitating expedited qualitative evaluations to bolster data analysis efforts is also part of the role. You will contribute to the creation and dissemination of study outputs, such as policy briefs, reports, presentations, and academic publications. Assisting in the compilation and drafting of technical and progress reports for submission to the study funder is expected. Assigned duties may include additional tasks as determined by the study supervisor or principal investigator.

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 another closely related social science or health-related field. Proficiency in qualitative research methodologies, with hands-on experience in facilitating interviews and conducting focus group discussions, is required. With a proven track record in projects focused on HIV, sexual and reproductive health, maternal health, or implementation research, candidates are expected to bring relevant experience to the role. Strong proficiency in written and verbal communication is required. Organizational proficiency and meticulous attention to detail are essential attributes for this role. Demonstrates strong analytical skills, exercises sound judgment, and upholds the highest ethical standards. Demonstrated capability to operate autonomously while collaborating productively with cross-functional teams is necessary. Proficiency in utilizing Microsoft Office applications, encompassing strong computer skills, is required. Individuals seeking to establish themselves in the fields of academic or public health research are encouraged to apply. Highly adaptable and open to assignments in diverse environments, including community-based organizations and healthcare facilities. Fluency in English is essential, along with proficiency in at least one local language—ideally Nyanja or Bemba.

Desirable requirements:

Experienced professionals with a strong background in community engagement or research initiatives are encouraged to apply. Capable of thriving in fast-paced, high-pressure settings while maintaining adaptability to varying schedules. High level of confidentiality and maturity is required. Proficiency in understanding the dynamics of the academic research environment is essential.

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