Intern Research Assistant at KEMRI

About the Company

The Kenya Medical Research Institute (KEMRI) is a premier national research organization established by the Science and Technology (Amendment) Act of 1979, now operating under the Science, Technology and Innovation Act of 2013. As a state corporation, KEMRI is dedicated to conducting high-quality health research to improve the health outcomes of Kenyans. With a commitment to excellence, KEMRI has become a leader in health research in Kenya, contributing significantly to the global health research landscape.

About the Job

We are seeking a motivated Intern Research Assistant to support our research team in various community health projects. This internship provides an excellent opportunity for hands-on experience in community engagement, participant recruitment, and data collection. You will play a crucial role in ensuring the success of our studies and the integrity of our data.

Job Descriptions

  1. Community Engagement: Facilitate entry and engagement with community members.
  2. Participant Mobilization: Recruit and mobilize study participants.
  3. Informed Consent: Ensure participants provide informed consent for participation.
  4. Data Collection: Conduct cross-sectional surveys and maintain accurate records.
  5. Follow-Up: Track study participants for follow-up activities.
  6. Data Integrity: Ensure completeness and accuracy of all data collected, including recordings, field notes, and surveys.

Qualifications and Experience

  • Education: Diploma in Nursing, Community Health & Development, Social Work, or any other relevant health/social sciences.
  • Experience: Previous experience in community health research or similar field is an advantage.
  • Knowledge: Understanding of research methodologies and ethical considerations in health research.

Skills

  • Communication: Strong verbal and written communication skills for effective community engagement.
  • Organizational Skills: Ability to maintain accurate records and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
  • Interpersonal Skills: Ability to build rapport with community members and participants.
  • Attention to Detail: Ensure the accuracy and completeness of collected data.

Languages

  • Proficiency in English: Both written and spoken.
  • Knowledge of Local Languages: Proficiency in local languages is a plus for effective community engagement.

Eligibility and Selection

  • Mandatory Requirement: Diploma in Nursing, Community Health & Development, Social Work, or other relevant health/social sciences.
  • Desirable Traits: Strong communication skills, attention to detail, and ability to work effectively in a team.

Core Functions / Responsibilities

  1. Community Engagement: Engage with community members to facilitate research activities.
  2. Participant Recruitment: Mobilize and recruit study participants.
  3. Informed Consent: Obtain informed consent from participants.
  4. Survey Administration: Conduct cross-sectional surveys and ensure data integrity.
  5. Participant Tracking: Keep track of study participants for follow-up activities.
  6. Data Management: Ensure the accuracy and completeness of all data collected.

How to Prepare for a Research Assistant Job at KEMRI

  1. Understand the Research Process: Familiarize yourself with research methodologies and ethical guidelines.
  2. Develop Communication Skills: Practice clear and effective communication for community engagement.
  3. Stay Organized: Enhance your organizational skills to manage data and tasks efficiently.

Questions You Might Be Asked During a Research Assistant Job Interview at KEMRI

  1. How do you ensure the accuracy and completeness of data collected?
  2. Can you describe your experience with community engagement?
  3. How do you handle challenges in participant recruitment?

Tips to Nail Your Research Assistant Job Interview at KEMRI

  1. Show Enthusiasm: Demonstrate your passion for community health and research.
  2. Be Specific: Provide detailed examples of your experience and skills.
  3. Highlight Attention to Detail: Emphasize your ability to maintain data integrity and accuracy.