Research Assistant
Department
Brian and Mind Institute, East Africa
Introduction
Chartered in 1983, Aga Khan University (AKU) is a private, autonomous, and self-governing international university, with 13 teaching sites in 6 countries over three continents. An integral part of the Aga Khan Development Network, AKU provides higher education in multiple health science and social science disciplines, carries out research pertinent primarily to low- and middle-income countries and operates 7 hospitals (soon 8) and over 325 outreach clinics, all at international standards. It has almost 2,500 students and 14,000 staff. The University is both a model of academic excellence and an agent of social change. As a leading international institution dedicated to excellence and change, AKU operates on the core principles of quality, relevance, impact, and access.
The Brain and Mind Institute (BMI) is a trans-AKU entity that seeks to build capacity in the domains of mental health and neuroscience. In collaboration with partners, the Institute is advancing research leadership capacity and support service delivery across East Africa and South Asia, and other regions served by the AKU. The Institute supports a hub for scholarship exchange and action on mental health issues, as well as educational, clinical, and community-based programs. BMI’s research focuses on the context of today’s youth in Africa and South Asia, while our programmatic offerings address mental health related and brain health issues, including stigma and resiliency. A significant area of interest is the implementation of science-based programing in hospital and community settings that translate new discoveries into prevention and treatment programs.
Job Purpose/Summary
The Research Assistant at the Brain and Mind Institute at Aga Khan University plays a vital role in supporting research endeavors under the guidance of Research Associates and Research Managers. Their responsibility primarily revolves around assisting with participant recruitment, administering interviews and tests, and managing data collected during research activities. Additionally, they collaborate closely with the Research Associate/Manager to ensure the smooth execution of research projects, including coordinating with research partners and stakeholders, maintaining research instrumentation, and providing technical support as needed. The role may also involve assisting in the dissemination of project results through various channels, such as policy briefs, white papers, reports, conferences, and peer-reviewed publications.
Key Roles and Responsibilities
Participant Recruitment, Data Collection, and Language Support
Engage in participant recruitment using diverse strategies and maintain accurate records.
Assist in research site setup, including logistical arrangements and infrastructure preparation.
Administer interviews, surveys, and neuropsychological tests in line with protocols.
Translate and transcribe study instruments, interviews, and test sessions, ensuring cultural and linguistic accuracy.
Organize and securely maintain collected data.
Technical and Research Support
Provide technical support to researchers and team members as requested.
Collaborate with Research Associates and Managers on project implementation.
Support with maintaining research instrumentation and equipment
Research Outputs and Dissemination
Assist in preparing research reports, policy briefs, and dissemination materials.
Contribute to presentations for conferences and scientific meetings.
Support publication of research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
Compliance, Ethics, and Other Responsibilities
Ensure compliance with ethical guidelines, institutional policies, and regulatory requirements.
Maintain confidentiality and privacy of research participants.
Serve as backup/cover for other project staff as needed and take on additional responsibilities as projects evolve.
Educational Qualifications
Bachelor's degree in a relevant field such as psychology, public health, sociology, or related discipline.
Additional certifications or coursework in research methods, data analysis, or relevant areas are preferred but not mandatory.
Relevant Experience
Minimum of 1 year experience in research data collection and report writing.
Experience working in academic or research settings preferred.
Familiarity with participant recruitment procedures, data collection techniques, and research ethics.
Proficiency in using relevant software for data entry and analysis, such as SPSS, Excel, or REDCap.
Proficiency in English and Swahili language skills, writing, spoken.
Personal Characteristics & Behaviour
Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.
Ability to work effectively in a team environment and collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
Adaptability and willingness to learn new skills and methodologies.
