Research Associate, BrainSTART, Brain and Mind Institute

JOB SUMMARY

Educational QualificationsMaster’s degree (or in final year) in Psychology, Psychometrics, Biomedical Sciences, Data Science, Social work, or related discipline.Relevant ExperienceMinimum 3 years’ experience in human subjects research and data management.Experience supervising research assistants.Demonstrated proficiency in quantitative methods, psychological measurement, and neuropsychological testing.Experience with statistical software, Microsoft Office, and data platforms.Familiarity with community engagement, NGO collaboration, and ethical oversight processes.Proficiency in English and Swahili, both spoken and written.

RESPONSIBILITIES

Contribution to Research Design and Ethical Compliance    Participate in the design and adaptation of research protocols and instruments.Provide input on methodology, sampling techniques, and data collection tools.Support preparation and submission of research protocols, informed consent forms, and source worksheets to  institutional and national ethics committeesParticipant Recruitment and Engagement    Develop recruitment strategies and screen potential participants for eligibility.Obtain informed consent and administer structured interviews, questionnaires, and neuropsychological tests.Build and maintain rapport with participants to ensure comfort, understanding, and adherence to study procedures.Accompany participants to research appointments (e.g., neuroimaging and biospecimen collection) and ensure their safety and wellbeing.Data Collection and AnalysisCollect, curate, clean, and manage study data using approved tools and platforms.Score, verify, and double-check data for accuracy.Identify, troubleshoot, and report data errors or discrepancies to the Project Manager/PI, with proposed corrective actions.Conduct basic preliminary statistical analysis and support report generation.Supervision, Technical, and Instrumentation SupportSupervise and mentor Research Assistants involved in data collection and management.Train staff on study procedures and proper use of research tools and equipment.Ensure study materials and equipment are available, functional, and well-maintained.Troubleshoot technical or logistical challenges and maintain related records.Coordination with Research Partners and Stakeholders   Collaborate with internal and external research partners, community stakeholders, and service providers to ensure smooth project implementation.Communicate project requirements, timelines, and deliverables effectively.Actively participate in project meetings, journal clubs, and management committee sessions.Research Dissemination and Reporting    Prepare progress summaries, reports, and presentations for the Project Manager and Principal Investigators.Contribute to drafting manuscripts, literature reviews, and conference materials based on project findings.Support dissemination of research outputs through academic and community channels.

REQUIRED SKILLS

Data analysis, Quantitative methods, Reporting

REQUIRED EDUCATION

Post-graduate education