
Essential Job Details
- Position Title: Research Assistant, IHD
- Job ID: 2500028T
- Location: Nairobi, Kenya
- Employment Type: Contractual
- Number of Vacancies: 1
- Salary: Not disclosed
- Category/Department: Institute for Human Development (IHD)
- Reporting To: Supervisor (not specified, likely IHD Research Coordinator)
- Entity: Aga Khan University
- Job Posting Date: August 4, 2025, 4:56:20 PM EAT
- Application Deadline: August 10, 2025, 9:59:00 PM EAT
- Experience: Minimum 2 years in research
- Education Level: Diploma in Psychology, Sociology, Nursing, Clinical Medicine, Community Development, or a related field
- Professional Qualifications: Research background is desirable
Introduction
The Research Assistant, IHD role at Aga Khan University in Nairobi is a transformative opportunity for a dedicated professional to contribute to groundbreaking research on attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) through the AKILI study. This contractual position, based at the Institute for Human Development (IHD), involves collecting quality data, ensuring ethical compliance, and collaborating with diverse stakeholders to advance scientific findings that improve lives. Ideal for Kenyan individuals with a Diploma in a related field and at least 2 years of research experience, the Research Assistant, IHD position offers a chance to engage in impactful work while advancing your career in Nairobi’s prestigious academic and healthcare sector.
The Research Assistant, IHD will play a critical role in the AKILI study, focusing on genetic characterization of ADHD in Kenyan and South African populations, adhering to standard operating procedures and ethical regulations. This role is perfect for those who thrive in a multidisciplinary research environment, enjoy working with vulnerable populations, and are passionate about contributing to knowledge that shapes policies and interventions for children’s development.
About Aga Khan University
Aga Khan University (AKU), chartered in 1983, is a private, autonomous, and self-governing international university with 13 teaching sites across 6 countries on three continents. As an integral part of the Aga Khan Development Network, AKU provides higher education in health sciences and social sciences, conducts research pertinent to low- and middle-income countries, and operates 7 hospitals (soon 8) and over 325 outreach clinics at international standards. With nearly 2,500 students and 14,000 staff, AKU is a model of academic excellence and an agent of social change, operating on core principles of quality, relevance, impact, and access.
The Institute for Human Development (IHD) at AKU is dedicated to advancing knowledge with direct relevance to policies, programs, and practices that enhance human development, with a particular focus on early childhood. The Research Assistant, IHD role supports IHD’s mission by contributing to the AKILI study, which aims to understand ADHD genetics and inform interventions, aligning with Nairobi’s role as a hub for research and healthcare innovation in East Africa.
Key Responsibilities
The Research Assistant, IHD will be responsible for collecting quality data for the AKILI study, ensuring ethical compliance, and collaborating with stakeholders to support research objectives. Reporting to a supervisor (likely the IHD Research Coordinator), the role involves engaging with families, conducting assessments, and maintaining accurate documentation. Below is a detailed breakdown of the key responsibilities:
1. Participant Engagement and Consent
- Share Study Information: Provide education and support related to the AKILI study to families or guardians of potential participants for the Research Assistant, IHD role.
- Conduct Consent Process: Participate in the informed consenting process, ensuring participants understand study details and rights.
- Screen Participants: Assist in screening and identifying eligible children and adolescents at hospitals, schools, or in the community.
2. Data Collection and Assessment
- Collect Data: Gather sociodemographic and phenotypic data using research electronic data capture software for the Research Assistant, IHD.
- Perform Assessments: Conduct neurocognitive and/or psychiatric assessments, such as KSADS and SNAP-IV, on study participants.
- Ensure Quality: Apply independent judgment to ensure data accuracy and completeness, adhering to AKILI’s standard operating procedures.
3. Documentation and Reporting
- Prepare Documentation: Maintain proper, accurate, and timely records of study-related activities, including assessments and data collection for the Research Assistant, IHD.
- Generate Reports: Contribute to monthly supervisory reports showing the number of clients and staff reached, reflecting study progress.
- Ensure Data Safety: Crosscheck data against the AKILI enrolment checklist and upload to the server before leaving field sites.
4. Stakeholder Sensitization and Training
- Develop Materials: Assist in preparing training materials on ADHD and neurocognitive/psychiatric assessments for the Research Assistant, IHD.
- Conduct Sensitization: Participate in training teachers, community health promoters, and other stakeholders engaged by AKILI.
- Foster Relationships: Build good working relationships with participants, parents, and personnel in hospitals, schools, and communities.
5. Resource and Equipment Management
- Distribute Incentives: Ensure all participants receive gifts, reimbursements, and snacks as outlined in the protocol, submitting proof of payment for accounting.
- Manage Expenditure: Account for field expenditure as guided, maintaining financial transparency for the Research Assistant, IHD.
- Handle Equipment: Use, store, and hand over field items safely to minimize damage and ensure security.
6. Additional Responsibilities
- Support Supervisor: Perform any other tasks assigned by the supervisor to support IHD research goals for the Research Assistant, IHD.
- Collaborate with Team: Work with other team members to ensure data completeness and adherence to ethical standards.
Qualifications and Skills
To excel as a Research Assistant, IHD at Aga Khan University, candidates must meet the following qualifications and skills, as outlined in the job description and aligned with industry standards:
- Education:
- Diploma in Psychology, Sociology, Nursing, Clinical Medicine, Community Development, or a related field from a recognized institution.
- Experience:
- Minimum 2 years of work experience in research, preferably in health or social sciences, for the Research Assistant, IHD.
- Experience working with vulnerable populations, such as those with neurological or mental health disorders, is highly desirable.
- Technical Skills:
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications (Word, Excel) for documentation and data management.
- Familiarity with research electronic data capture software to collect and analyze data for the Research Assistant, IHD.
- Basic knowledge of neurocognitive/psychiatric assessments (e.g., KSADS, SNAP-IV) is an advantage.
- Research background in data collection, consenting processes, or study coordination is preferable.
- Soft Skills:
- Ability to work under minimal supervision to manage field tasks independently for the Research Assistant, IHD.
- Excellent interpersonal skills and a good team player mentality to collaborate with diverse stakeholders.
- Good communication skills (written and oral) to engage with participants and document findings.
- Attention to detail to ensure data accuracy and compliance with protocols.
- Keen desire to learn and share knowledge to contribute to research goals.
- Flexibility to work extra hours when needed to meet study deadlines.
- Preferred Skills:
- Experience in community-based research to align with IHD’s focus on child development.
- Knowledge of ADHD or related disorders to enhance study relevance.
- Multilingual abilities (e.g., English, Kiswahili) to engage diverse participants in Nairobi.
Company Culture and Values
Aga Khan University (AKU) fosters a professional, inclusive, and innovative culture, guided by its core principles of quality, relevance, impact, and access. Based in Nairobi, a hub for education and research, AKU values academic excellence, social change, and interdisciplinary collaboration, creating a supportive environment for staff and students. The Institute for Human Development (IHD) within AKU is dedicated to advancing knowledge on human development, particularly for children, aligning with the university’s mission to address challenges in low- and middle-income countries. The Research Assistant, IHD role contributes to a culture that prioritizes evidence-based research, ethical practice, and community impact, reflecting AKU’s global leadership in healthcare and social sciences.
How to Apply
Apply now for the Research Assistant, IHD position at Aga Khan University in Nairobi. To submit your application:
- Complete the online application form via: Apply for Research Assistant, IHD.
- Prepare a detailed CV highlighting your research experience, academic qualifications, and relevant skills.
- Include a cover letter explaining your suitability for the Research Assistant, IHD role and alignment with AKU’s mission.
- Attach copies of your Diploma in a related field and any evidence of research background or certifications.
- Provide consent to the Recruitment Consent Form for personal data use and verification.
- Applications must be submitted by August 10, 2025, 9:59:00 PM EAT.
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews.
- Note: Aga Khan University is an equal opportunity employer and does not charge any fees for job applications. Candidates requiring accommodations due to disabilities should contact the employer directly through the application portal. The current date and time are 09:19 PM EAT on Tuesday, August 5, 2025.
Additional Engagement
- View More Job Opportunities: Explore additional vacancies at JobKenya.org.
- Free WhatsApp Channel for Job Seekers: Get real-time alerts from our WhatsApp Channel for Job Updates.
- Follow on Social Media: Stay updated with job opportunities on Twitter and LinkedIn.
Tags
Research Assistant, Nairobi jobs, healthcare research careers, IHD jobs, academic jobs
Role Overview
The Research Assistant, IHD role at Aga Khan University in Nairobi is a contractual position focused on supporting the AKILI study, which investigates the genetic characterization of ADHD in Kenyan and South African populations. This role involves collecting quality data, conducting assessments, and ensuring ethical compliance, making it ideal for individuals with a Diploma in a related field and 2 years of research experience. The Research Assistant, IHD offers a chance to contribute to transformative research while advancing your career in Nairobi’s prestigious academic and healthcare sector.
Why This Role Matters
As a Research Assistant, IHD, you will play a critical role in advancing scientific knowledge that informs policies and interventions for children’s development, particularly those with ADHD. Your work in collecting data, engaging with families, and ensuring ethical standards will directly impact the AKILI study’s success, supporting IHD’s mission to enhance life experiences. The Research Assistant, IHD role is impactful and rewarding, offering a chance to make a meaningful difference in Nairobi’s research landscape while contributing to global health solutions.
Program Context: AKILI Study at IHD
The Institute for Human Development (IHD) at Aga Khan University is dedicated to researching human development, with a focus on early childhood and conditions like ADHD. The Research Assistant, IHD role supports the AKILI study, a collaborative project examining ADHD genetics in Kenyan and South African populations. This research aligns with IHD’s goal of shaping policies and interventions, leveraging Nairobi’s role as a hub for health and social science research within AKU’s global network.
Day-to-Day Responsibilities
The Research Assistant, IHD will engage in a variety of tasks to support the AKILI study and research operations. Daily responsibilities include:
- Participant Engagement: Sharing study information and conducting consent processes for the Research Assistant, IHD.
- Data Collection: Gathering sociodemographic and phenotypic data using electronic tools.
- Assessments: Performing neurocognitive and psychiatric evaluations, such as KSADS and SNAP-IV.
- Documentation: Preparing accurate records and reports on study activities.
- Training Support: Assisting in sensitizing stakeholders and developing training materials.
- Resource Management: Distributing incentives and accounting for field expenditure.
- Collaboration: Building relationships with participants, families, and institutional personnel.
Skills Development Opportunities
The Research Assistant, IHD role offers significant opportunities for professional growth, enhancing skills in research, data management, and community engagement. Key development opportunities include:
- Research Expertise: Mastering data collection and assessment techniques for the Research Assistant, IHD.
- Data Management Skills: Gaining proficiency in electronic data capture and database maintenance.
- Ethical Practice: Developing knowledge of informed consent and research ethics.
- Community Engagement: Enhancing interpersonal skills to work with vulnerable populations.
- Reporting Proficiency: Improving documentation and report-writing abilities.
- Team Collaboration: Building teamwork skills through coordination with research teams.
These opportunities position you for career advancement in research coordination, public health, or academic roles within AKU or the broader sector.
Working in Nairobi
Nairobi, Kenya’s capital and a hub for education and research, provides a dynamic work environment for the Research Assistant, IHD at Aga Khan University. Based at AKU’s Nairobi campus, you will work in a prestigious academic setting with access to advanced research facilities and a diverse team. Nairobi’s role as a center for health sciences and social research, supported by institutions like AKU and the University of Nairobi, makes it an ideal location for advancing your research career. With modern amenities and a supportive professional community, Nairobi offers a perfect backdrop for impactful work as a Research Assistant, IHD.
Career Growth Potential
The Research Assistant, IHD role is a gateway to advanced roles in research, public health, or academic administration. Key growth prospects include:
- Senior Research Roles: Advancing to positions like Research Coordinator or Data Analyst.
- Public Health Careers: Transitioning to roles in health policy or community health research.
- Academic Opportunities: Moving into research assistant or lecturer positions within AKU.
- Professional Development: Accessing training in research methods, ADHD studies, or data analysis.
- Industry Influence: Contributing to IHD’s global impact on child development research.
The contractual nature of the role provides a strong foundation for long-term opportunities in Nairobi’s academic and healthcare sectors.
Commitment to Diversity and Inclusion
Aga Khan University is an equal opportunity employer committed to fostering an inclusive workplace. The university encourages applications from diverse backgrounds, including women, persons with disabilities, and marginalized groups, aligning with its mission of social change. As a Research Assistant, IHD, you will contribute to a culture of excellence, collaboration, and accessibility, supporting AKU’s vision to address challenges in low- and middle-income countries.
Who Should Apply
The Research Assistant, IHD role is ideal for individuals with a Diploma in Psychology, Sociology, Nursing, Clinical Medicine, Community Development, or a related field, and at least 2 years of research experience. If you have strong communication, analytical skills, and a passion for research on human development, this position offers a chance to excel in Nairobi’s academic sector. Candidates with experience working with vulnerable populations are particularly well-suited for the Research Assistant, IHD role.
How to Stand Out as an Applicant
To increase your chances of being shortlisted for the Research Assistant, IHD role:
- Highlight Research Experience: Emphasize your 2+ years of research experience in your CV.
- Showcase Qualifications: Include your Diploma and any research-related certifications.
- Demonstrate Skills: Provide examples of data collection, assessments, or community engagement in your cover letter.
- Align with AKU Values: Reflect your commitment to quality, impact, and inclusivity.
- Include Documentation: Attach evidence of your academic and professional background.
Application Tips
When applying for the Research Assistant, IHD position:
- Complete the Online Form: Fill out the application form accurately at Apply for Research Assistant, IHD.
- Tailor Your CV: Highlight research experience, qualifications, and technical skills for the Research Assistant, IHD role.
- Write a Concise Cover Letter: Explain your suitability and alignment with AKU’s mission.
- Provide Consent: Agree to the Recruitment Consent Form for personal data use.
- Submit Early: Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, so apply before August 10, 2025, 9:59:00 PM EAT.
- Ensure Accuracy: Verify that your application is complete and correctly formatted.
Why Work at Aga Khan University
Working as a Research Assistant, IHD at Aga Khan University offers a unique opportunity to contribute to cutting-edge research while advancing your career. Key benefits include:
- Impactful Work: Support transformative research on ADHD and child development.
- Prestigious Environment: Work in a globally recognized university with a focus on social change.
- Professional Growth: Gain experience in a research institute with access to training and networks.
- Dynamic Setting: Thrive in Nairobi’s vibrant academic and healthcare hub.
- Supportive Culture: Join an inclusive, mission-driven team that values quality and impact.
By joining AKU, you will play a critical role in advancing knowledge, shaping policies, and contributing to human development in East Africa.
Additional Information
Aga Khan University is an equal opportunity employer committed to fair and transparent recruitment processes. No fees are charged for job applications, and candidates should be cautious of fraudulent requests. Candidates requiring accommodations due to disabilities should contact the employer directly through the application portal. The current date and time are 09:19 PM EAT on Tuesday, August 5, 2025. For more details, refer to the official application portal: Apply for Research Assistant, IHD.
Conclusion
The Research Assistant, IHD role at Aga Khan University in Nairobi is a transformative opportunity for professionals passionate about research and human development. By joining AKU, you will contribute to the AKILI study, advance scientific knowledge, and support child development interventions in a leading academic institution. With a focus on inclusivity, excellence, and professional growth, this Research Assistant, IHD position offers a chance to make a lasting impact in Nairobi’s academic and healthcare sectors. Apply today to become part of a team shaping the future of research and policy in East Africa.