Research Assistants | 30

Makerere University School of Public Health (MakSPH) in collaboration with the Ministry of Health with funding from the Global Fund for AIDS, TB and Malaria (GFATM) is implementing a study to understand the current state of affairs as far as HIV related stigma and discrimination is concerned here referred to as the (“Stigma and Discrimination Survey”). The aim of the study is to assess the magnitude and correlates of stigma and discrimination among People Living with HIV (PLHIV) and its effect on the country HIV response. The findings from this study are expected to inform the country’s strategies as well as shaping the design of programmatic interventions to minimize the effects of stigma and discrimination on the HIV epidemic.

The study will involve collection of both qualitative and quantitative data from PLHIV in care, health care providers, leaders of PLHIV networks groups, as well as individuals affected by HIV. Quantitative data will be collected through individual interviews with a sample of PLHIV while qualitative data will be collected through focus group discussions and key informant interviews with members of the PLHIV networks and managers of ART clinics and organizations supporting PLHIV groups.

The study will be conducted in 20 districts randomly selected across the country. The respective districts include; South Central (Kyotera, Masaka, Kalangala), North Central (Kayunga, Buikwe), Kampala (Kampala, Wakiso), Busoga (Namutumba), Bukedi (Tororo), Bugisu (Mbale), Teso (Soroti), Karamoja (Moroto), Lango (Lira), Acholi (Kitgum), West Nile (Arua), Bunyoro (Hoima), Tooro (Kabarole), Kigezi (Rukungiri), and Ankole (Bushenyi, Mbarara).

The Study lead team wishes to recruit thirty (30) research assistants to support data collection. The purpose of this advertisement is to request interested persons to apply for the post of research assistant.

 Key job responsibilities:

1. Mobilizing prospective research participants and sensitizing them about the Stigma and Discrimination survey especially regarding the study objectives and procedures
2. Enlisting informed consent from research participants before interviews
3. Administering quantitative survey questionnaire on selected respondents
4. Conduct qualitative interviews including focus group discussions and key informant interviews
5. Reimbursing research participants for time compensation and transport refund where necessary and as accounting for any funds advanced for the conduct of field/study related activities
6. Participating in data quality control activities such as; editing questionnaires, review of qualitative interview scripts and attending debriefing meetings from time to time as need might arise
7. Any other field/study related activities as may be assigned by the Study PI and or Study coordinator

Required Knowledge, skills, and abilities:

• A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in humanities and health related disciplines; preferably Social Sciences, Education, Adult and Community Education, Public Health, Health Services research, Development Studies, Community Psychology, and Nursing.
• At least 2 years of experience in health-related research and especially research related to HIV/AIDS, and TB.
• Proven experience and skills in conducting high quality qualitative interviews through focus group discussions, key informant interview, and In-depth interviews. A practical demonstration of this experience will be required.
• Training in Human research subjects Education and research ethics (GCP) is required.
• Training and experience in HIV/AIDS counselling and psychosocial support is an added advantage.
• Proficiency in English and local language of the respective study region and or district/s of the applicant’s interest.
• Ability to demonstrate working on short deadlines, adapting to field dynamics and dealing with challenges.
• Good rapport skills and networking with local district support structures including PLHIV network groups/leaders, health facilities and district health teams among others.
• Pleasant, social, hardworking, flexible, with a spirit of team work/building.
• With good interpersonal skills, and high integrity.
• Self-motivated and able to work under minimum supervision.
• Willingness to work and reside in a rural setting.
• Willing and ready to work for long hours.

How to apply:

Interested candidates should submit their application letters, resume and a support letter from one of the referees to the Dean Makerere University School of Public Health on email; recruitment@musph.ac.ug

NOTE: Applicants MUST indicate the region and district of interest in the email subject.

Application deadline: 15th February, 2023 at 5:00pm.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.