Study Assistant (Qualitative) at Desmond Tutu Health Foundation

• The primary purpose of this role is to assist the socio-behavioural scientists in conducting qualitative interviews as part of the qualitative sub-study for the MISSED OUTCOMES TB Study, which implements a mixed-methods approach based on the TB Care Cascade, in accordance with the study protocol. This will include qualitative data collection coordination, data quality control, data capturing, research process monitoring, and supporting analysis.

Job Requirements

• Tertiary degree in health-related field
• 2 years of working experience in a research environment
• 2 years of strong data entry experience
• At least 1 year of experience in qualitative research (interviews, focus groups, observations) data collection, quality control, organization of data and preliminary analysis
• Experience in using data bases i.e. Redcap etc.
• Fluency in English and isiXhosa
• Certificate in Good Clinical Practice (GCP)
• Computer literacy with sound knowledge of email, Microsoft office suit
• Strong verbal, written and interpersonal communication skills
• Ability to work well under pressure and to maintain effectiveness during changing conditions
• Client focused
• Strong organizational, oral and writing skills
• Must be able to work in a team and independently
• Excellent interpersonal and (attentive) listening skills, including a neutral/non-judgmental attitude.
• Attention to detail
• Ability to think analytically and creatively during qualitative analysis
• Ability to maintain a high level of confidentiality at all times
• Willingness to travel and work irregular hours, including weekends from time to time  

Advantageous:

• Previous work experience with infectious diseases such as TB, HIV and relevant care/treatment
• Knowledge of qualitative data analysis (QDA) software, e.g., Atlas.Ti, Nvivo, Dedoose

Responsibilities: 

Study implementation: recruitment, data collection

• Schedule interviews with recruited participants
• Conduct in-depth interviews and focus group discussions
• Conduct study Informed Consent
• Ensure GCP guidelines followed for all procedures with participants

Data Management and Analysis

• Capture and upload qualitative recordings, and field notes
• Data quality and accuracy check for all qualitative data.
• Transcribing and translating qualitative transcripts
• Assist with Qualitative coding and analysis as needed from socio-behavioral lead
• Conduct literature reviews and participate in study related presentations if required
• Assisting with SOP’s (Standard Operation Procedure) documents for all qualitative research

Study Administration

• Assist Study Coordinator with administrative tasks including QC of files
• Call participants and schedule qualitative interviews including follow-up reminders/attempts
• Travel to relevant sites for qualitative data collection
• Participate in conference calls, meetings and training when required (including qualitative refreshers