Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is a State Corporation established through the Science and Technology (Amendment) Act of 1979, which has since been amended to Science, Technology and Innovation Act 2013. The 1979 Act established KEMRI as a National body responsible for carrying out health research in Kenya.

Ref. KEMRI-THGP 02

Reporting to: Principal Investigators

Summary

The Field Assistant will provide assistance to the overall project and will work with the existing THGP team. The candidate will be in charge of explaining the study to potential participants, obtaining informed consent, and then conducting a survey/interview with children and their guardians about lifestyle, environment, and experiences. When not in the field, the candidate will assist with data entry, data management, and any other tasks to support the overall project.

Essential Requirements:

•  Minimum of a Certificate in Community Health Work, Social Sciences or any Biomedical Sciences
•  Basic understanding of biology and genetics
•  Fieldwork experience working in a busy research project
•  Must be computer literate
•  Must be a team player
•  Must be comfortable in remote field work conditions

Specific Tasks and Responsibilities.

• The position responsibilities shall specifically include but not be limited to the following:
•  Participate in field work and support field data collection;
•  Explain research study to participants and obtain informed consent;
•  Perform detailed questionnaire about lifestyle and experiences;
•  Perform basic anthropometric measurements, for example waist and height measurements;
•  Properly store and track data sheets and consent forms, including scanning and organizing digital copies;
•  Be ready to help with other tasks as requested such as charging batteries or maintaining generators and other equipment;
•  Perform any other duties assigned or delegated by the project leadership.

Terms of Employment

Employment is on contract basis for a period of 1 year renewable subject to availability of funds. There will be a probation period for the first 3 months. Salary is commensurate with KEMRI’s appropriate grade depending on education, experience and demonstrated competency