About US:
The Johns Hopkins University/Center for Communication Programs (CCP) is a pioneer in the field of strategic, research based communication for behavior change and health promotion that has helped transform the theory and practice of public health.
About Research:
Center for Communication Programs (CCP) is working with the Ugandan Ministry of Health (MOH), Uganda Cancer Society, American Cancer Society, and other organizations working in cancer prevention, detection, treatment and support to develop communication materials for cancer patients and their caregivers. American Cancer Society has developed materials for North American audiences, but they need to be adapted to the Ugandan context and the communication needs of Ugandan cancer patients. As a first step, we would like to learn more about the cancer communication needs of patients, caregivers, community volunteers and health workers and the types of communication materials that they prefer. To do this, CCP will conduct 16 in-depth interviews and 3 focus group discussions with cancer patients, their family members, counselors/outreach workers, and health workers providing cancer treatment and palliative care services.
Job Summary: The Qualitative Research Assistant will support the Johns Hopkins Center for Communication Programs (CCP) in conducting qualitative research in Luganda and English. The Research Assistant will be on a short term basis and will conduct and transcribe focus group discussions and in-depth interviews with health workers, patient care volunteers, patients and their family members concerning cancer. The qualitative research assistant will conduct Luganda-language interviews and facilitate Luganda language focus group discussions. All interviews and discussions will be audio recorded. Following the discussions and interviews, the research assistant will prepare verbatim word-for-word transcripts.
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
· Regularly review the research methodology and tools and participate in a one-day training session to prepare for the activity.
· Screen focus group discussion and in-depth interview respondents using a screening check list and informed consent form prior to interviews and ensure that only qualified and consenting respondents participate.
· The incumbent will also facilitate 3 focus group discussions and approximately 8 in-depth interviews, following the methodology and discussion guide, and utilizing interpersonal communication techniques that encourage equitable participation of all participants.
· Ensure that tape recording devises are functioning properly, and have working batteries.
· Record all interviews and discussions on audio tape.
· Prepare verbatim word-for-word transcripts in English of all of the approximately 8 in-depth interviews and 3 focus group discussions.
· Actively participate in debriefing meetings following interviews and focus group discussions to share any challenges and interesting findings.
· Report for work punctually, according to the schedule worked out together with his/her supervisor.
· Assist with other activities necessary for the smooth operation of the formative assessment.
Qualifications, Skills and Experience:
· The ideal candidate for the Qualitative Research Assistant vacancy should hold a Bachelor’s degree in social sciences, communication or related field and experience conducting qualitative research in Uganda.
· Fluent in Luganda and English. Fluency in other Ugandan languages is an added advantage.
· Possess good people skills and writing skills;
· Computer literacy with proficiency in MS Word required.
Remuneration and Duration: CCP will pay a daily rate commensurate with the research assistant’s past salary or income history and the current market rate for research assistants. CCP will provide transportation between its office and the venues for interviews and focus group discussions. All other expenses will be the responsibility of the research assistant. This assignment will take place during January and February, 2016, for a total of 20 8-hour days, over a 4 – 5 week period.
How to Apply:
All suitably qualified and interested candidates should send a cover letter, updated CV, and three professional references addressed to: HR Administrator at hr@jhuccpug.org. In the subject line of your email, please indicate “Cancer Research Assistant”.
Deadline: 15th January, 2016 by midnight