Research Advisor

Organization Background

JSI is a US-based public health nonprofit organization dedicated to providing high-quality technical and managerial assistance programs throughout the world. In Ethiopia, JSI has been working to improve health outcomes for more than 25 years, implementing more than 60 projects and working in every region. JSI has historically managed a large portfolio of projects focusing on the quality, and equity in access of, RMNCAH services, primary health care (PHC) including community health program, digital health, health information systems (HIS), supply chain management, public health emergency responses, and social and behavior change.

Activity Overview

USAID Quality Healthcare Activity (QHA) aims at improving health outcomes through improved readiness of health facilities to deliver quality reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCAH) services, increased management and accountability for quality service delivery, and restoration of services in health facilities in conflict-affected areas. QHA's strategies and implementation approaches will help Ethiopia's government build responsive, resilient, and sustainable public and private healthcare systems. QHA will cover urban and peri-urban primary health care units (PHCU) and referral health facilities in select regions and woredas. The Activity, through funding support from USAID, will be implemented by JSI in collaboration with the Institute for Healthcare Improvement (IHI), MSI Reproductive Choices (MSI), Project HOPE, and Network of Ethiopian Women's Associations (NEWA) for five years (May 01, 2023 - April 30, 2028)

Role Summary        

The Research Advisor plays a vital role in guiding and overseeing QHA’s learning and research activity. S/he will provide expert advice, direction, and support to ensure the successful implementation and execution of various research activities, including assisting in the formulation of research questions, preparing study protocols, seeking ethical clearance, conducting quality assurance, analyzing data, interpreting results, and supporting the writing and dissemination of study findings. The advisor collaborates with a multidisciplinary team to develop research strategies, prioritize, and operationalize the Activity’s research agendas, and generate valuable insights to contribute to the advancement of healthcare practices and policies.

Key Responsibilities

·       Advise on appropriate research methodologies, data collection techniques, and sampling strategies.

·       Assist technical and LME staff in selecting and implementing suitable statistical analysis methods to interpret research findings.

·       Ensure generated evidence is used for management decision making and continuous performance improvement.

·       Develop concept notes and proposals.

·       Conduct literature reviews and produce synthesized evidence (systematic reviews and meta-analysis).

·       Collaborate with cross-functional teams to identify research needs and opportunities. Provide guidance and support to researchers throughout the Activity lifecycle. Foster a collaborative and inclusive research environment.

·       Seek ethical clearance from JSI and local Institutional Review Board (IRB).

·       Ensure research projects adhere to ethical guidelines and standards, addressing any potential ethical concerns.

·       Ensure study recruitment and informed consent procedures are implemented according to the protocol.

·       Advise on effective ways to present research findings, both in written reports and oral presentations.

·       Build the capacity of staff on evidence generation and use.

·       Ensure the quality of data collection, prepare analysis plan, and conduct analysis.

·       Participate and organize result dissemination workshops.

·       Manage documentation of data, storage, transfer/sharing according to study protocols.

·       Protect the privacy of study subjects and ensure the confidentiality of study-related documents throughout studies.

·       Perform other duties as assigned.

·       Advanced degree in public health, statistics, or epidemiology with at least 10 years of experience is required.

·       Research Experience: Demonstrated experience in conducting research projects, including knowledge of research design, data collection methods, and statistical analysis techniques.

·       Quantitative and analytical skills, including experience with mining, analysis, interpretation, and presentation of data.

·       Knowledge of Research Ethics: Familiarity with ethical guidelines, principles, and protocols associated with research.

·       Analytical Skills: Strong analytical and critical thinking abilities to assist researchers in designing effective study designs and data analysis plans.

·       Experience in using statistical software such as SPSS, STATA, and R is highly desirable.

·       Experience in providing training for data collectors including health professionals.

·       Must be able to work independently while being a strong team player.

·       Demonstrated ability to communicate, assume leadership, and make rational decisions.

·       Data visualization skills using tools such as Tableau, Power BI, Advanced Excel is highly desirable.

·       Excellent oral and written communication, presentation, and organizational skills.

·       Ability to coordinate various tasks, work independently and manage work plan.

·       Ability to work as part of a diverse and dynamic team.

·       Ability to work comfortably in the MS Office package, Google suite, and other software and technology tools.

·       Experience in working with mobile health (mHealth) tools such as ODK, Survey CTO is an added advantage.

·       Speaking of more than one local language is a plus.