Cohort Study Officer, Attractive Targeted Sugar Bait Program for Appropriate Technology in Health (PATH)

Tracking Code11789

Job Description

PATH is a global nonprofit dedicated to achieving health equity. With more than 40 years of experience forging multisector partnerships, and with expertise in science, economics, technology, advocacy, and dozens of other specialties, PATH develops and scales up innovative solutions to the world’s most pressing health challenges

PATH is a partner to the National Malaria Elimination Centre (NMEC) in the effort to control and eliminate malaria in Zambia. PATH is partnering with the NMEC to implement a Phase III large-scale trial of a promising new tool for malaria vector control, the attractive targeted sugar bait (ATSB). The trial is operating in Western Province in the districts of Kaoma, Nkeyema, and Luampa from 2021-2023. The trial is operating in 70 study clusters with activities including: household installation and monitoring of ATSBs, cohort study of children aged 1-14 years, household survey, mosquito collections for entomological monitoring, community engagement activities, and qualitative research.

PATH seeks to recruit two (02) Cohort Officers for the ATSB study. Reporting to the Research Team Lead, the Cohort Officers will support the implementation of the cohort and cross-sectional household surveys. They will work with the Research Team Lead to ensure that the research teams complete visits on time and according to the protocol and standard operating procedures. This will include support to research team trainings and meetings, monthly supervision and site visits, and routine reviews of the study data.

Responsibilities:

• Assist in providing direct support to 10 field-based research teams implementing the ATSB Cohort study (and additional teams during the implementation of the cross-sectional household survey). This will include frequent communication with the research team members to provide guidance and performance feedback, share key messaging updates, and answer arising questions that may impact the ATSB project.
• Support pre-service and on-the-job training for cohort study teams and the cross-sectional household survey teams.
• Develop, maintain, and review the study plans on a weekly basis with support from the Research Team Lead to ensure that the research teams remain on track to complete their work on time.
• Contribute to the planning and implementation of routine meetings with the research teams. This will include supporting technical and logistics (payments, supplies) operations and address any challenges or issues arising to date.
• Review the cohort study visit data dashboards on a daily basis and work with the Research Team Lead to develop and implement action plans to address areas of concern.
• Support cohort research team in proper use of data collection tools (Commcare). This includes being familiar with data questionnaires, Commcare navigation and basic Commcare troubleshooting.
• Conduct monthly supervision of research teams in assigned research zones to the research teams complete visits according to the protocol and standard operating procedures. Provide actionable feedback to the research teams based on the outcomes of the observations.
• Conduct monthly spot checks of cohort visits in assigned research zones and report any concerns of data discrepancy.
• Immediately inform the Research Team Lead of any challenges, problems, or incidents that occur with study participants and/or within study communities.
• Actively participate in weekly cohort study and household survey check-in calls. Contribute towards workplans and workstream presentations.
• Conduct other activities as assigned by the immediate supervisor.
• Ensure that study teams follow the consenting process as per study guidelines and organize consent forms correctly before submitting to the study office in Kaoma.
• Ensure standards are met for handling and storage of study samples including RDTs, DBS and Microscopy glass slides.

Required Experience

• Diploma or its equivalent in a related field or equivalent experience in epidemiological studies, survey research, and public health.
• At least 3 year(s) of relevant experience required.
• Advanced computer skills including use of Microsoft Word, Excel, and Outlook.
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English.
• Excellent interpersonal and teamwork skills.
• Ability to conduct daily fieldwork within the designated districts (approximately 80% of time).
• Experience developing and maintaining daily and weekly plans and schedules for one or more research teams.
• Familiarity with reviewing and interpreting data in spreadsheets, tables, and charts/graphs.
• Familiarity with electronic data collection tools.
• Knowledge and behaviors that support equality, diversity, and inclusive practice.

Desired Experience:

• Experience with antimalarial testing using rapid diagnostic tests and treatment with antimalarial treatment, for example through working on a malaria research study or for a health project or health center.
• Experience working on quantitative community-based research studies that used electronic forms on tablets or phones for data collection.
• Experience in planning and facilitating trainings.
• Fluency in other languages spoken in Western Province is desirable

Must have legal authorization to work in Zambia.

PATH is dedicated to building an inclusive workforce where diversity is valued.

PATH is an equal opportunity employer. Every qualified applicant will be considered for employment. PATH does not discriminate based on race, color, religion, gender, gender identity or orientation, genetic information, age, national origin, marital status, disability status, political ideology, military or protected veteran status, or any other characteristic protected by applicable federal, state, or local law.

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Job Location

Kaoma, Western, Zambia

Company Location

Kaoma, Zambia

Position TypeFull-Time/Regular