Research Analyst

Job Posting Organization:
The Clinton Health Access Initiative, Inc. (CHAI) is a global health organization founded in 2002, dedicated to saving lives and reducing the burden of disease in low- and middle-income countries. CHAI operates in over 40 countries and works closely with governments and the private sector to create and sustain high-quality health systems. Initially established to address the HIV/AIDS epidemic, CHAI has since expanded its focus to include a range of infectious diseases and non-communicable diseases, as well as initiatives aimed at improving maternal and child health and increasing access to vaccines and assistive technology. The organization emphasizes sustainable impact and the importance of local leadership in health solutions, with a diverse team that brings a variety of skills and experiences to its mission.

Job Overview:
The Research Analyst position at CHAI is a critical role within the organization, particularly in the context of the SHIFT project, which aims to evaluate the impact of funding transitions on HIV service delivery in multiple countries, including Zambia. The Research Analyst will be responsible for leading the project, coordinating with various stakeholders, and ensuring compliance with ethical standards. This role requires a results-oriented individual with strong analytical skills and project management experience. The Research Analyst will work closely with the Senior Research Manager and the research data analyst to interpret and analyze data sets, contributing to effective program implementation. The position demands a high level of independence and flexibility, as well as a commitment to excellence in all aspects of the work.

Duties and Responsibilities:
The Research Analyst will have a comprehensive set of responsibilities, including coordinating local ethics and government approval processes, leading the preparation and submission of all necessary ethical and regulatory documents, and ensuring compliance with national and institutional ethical standards. They will serve as the primary point of contact with local Institutional Review Boards (IRBs), the Ministry of Health, and other relevant oversight bodies. The Analyst will monitor and manage timelines for approvals to ensure that study milestones are met. Additionally, they will facilitate access to existing HIV service delivery data sets, oversee data cleaning and management processes, and ensure the safe storage of sensitive health data. The Analyst will analyze existing data to generate insights relevant to HIV service delivery and health systems improvement, engage with national and sub-national HIV stakeholders, and represent the study in technical working groups and stakeholder meetings. They will also lead primary data collection efforts, design data collection protocols, recruit and train data collection personnel, and ensure high-quality data collection. Furthermore, the Analyst will maintain strong coordination with regional SHIFT teams and act as the focal point for communication with project teams based in South Africa and the U.S.A.

Required Qualifications:
The position requires a bachelor's degree in a social or health science field, with an emphasis on epidemiology, health systems, data analysis, statistical modeling, and database management. Candidates should have a minimum of 3 to 5 years of relevant experience in either the private or public sector, demonstrating increasing levels of responsibility. Proven experience in research implementation and project coordination is essential, particularly in preparing and submitting ethical and regulatory applications within public health or clinical research settings. Strong proficiency in managing and interpreting data from electronic health information systems is required, along with hands-on experience with Zambia's national EMR system (SmartCare). Candidates should also have expertise in qualitative research methodologies and advanced data management capabilities, including proficiency in SQL and experience with Microsoft Access. Robust analytical skills and experience with statistical analysis software are also necessary, as is the ability to communicate technical findings effectively to diverse stakeholders.

Educational Background:
Candidates must possess a bachelor's degree in a relevant field, such as social or health sciences, with a focus on epidemiology, health systems, data analysis, or related areas. A master's degree is considered an added advantage, as it may enhance the candidate's qualifications for the role.

Experience:
The ideal candidate should have a minimum of 3 to 5 years of relevant experience in research implementation and project coordination, with a proven track record of increasing responsibility in either a private or public sector environment. Experience in public health or clinical research settings is particularly valuable, as is familiarity with ethical and regulatory processes.

Languages:
While the job description does not specify mandatory languages, proficiency in English is likely essential given the international nature of the organization and the need for effective communication with diverse stakeholders. Additional language skills relevant to the local context may be considered advantageous.

Additional Notes:
The position is likely to be full-time, and while specific details regarding contract duration and compensation are not provided, candidates should be aware that CHAI is an Equal Opportunity Employer committed to diversity and inclusion. The organization values the contributions of individuals from diverse backgrounds and experiences, which aligns with its mission to improve health outcomes globally.