Entry-Level Research Assistant (Nairobi and Isiolo)

About the role

KEMRI is recruiting entry-level research assistants in Nairobi and Isiolo. The posts involve supporting clinical studies by screening participants, collecting data and maintaining study records, in line with the study protocol and standard operating procedures.

Key responsibilities

• Explain the study to potential participants, screen them against eligibility criteria and describe the purpose, procedures, risks, benefits and requirements.
• Assess capacity to consent, obtain informed consent and assent where appropriate, and document consent properly.
• Administer questionnaires and psychological assessments, collect participant data and enter and verify it securely using encrypted electronic data collection devices.
• Conduct qualitative interviews, including focus-group discussions and in-depth interviews, as per the protocol.
• Maintain accurate participant records and study documentation, keeping information confidential.
• Record study activities, field challenges and lessons learned, and prepare monthly and semi-annual field reports.
• Support monitoring, quality assurance and compliance with the protocol, ethical requirements and SOPs.

Required profile

• Diploma in Nursing, Psychology, Clinical Medicine, Public Health, Community Health or a related field from a recognised institution.
• Demonstrated experience in both qualitative and quantitative data collection.
• Experience in mental health or with vulnerable populations is an added advantage.
• Certification in Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and/or Human Subjects Protection (HSP) is highly desirable.
• For the Turkana position, preference goes to candidates willing to work there and familiar with the local culture.

Required skills

• Proficiency in Word and Excel, and experience with digital devices and tools such as REDCap.
• Familiarity with informed consent, confidentiality, data protection and basic data quality assurance.
• Attention to detail, ability to work independently and meet deadlines, and good communication and teamwork skills.