Research Assistant – Smoking Cessation Study at CIHEB-Kenya – Nairobi | Apply by 27th May 2025

Research Assistant – Smoking Cessation Study at CIHEB-Kenya – Nairobi | Apply by 27th May 2025

ESSENTIAL JOB DETAILS

• Position: Research Assistant – Smoking Cessation Study

• Location: Nairobi, Kenya

• Type of Job: Full-Time, Fixed-Term Research Support

• Job Category: Clinical Trials / Public Health / Research

• Reporting To: Study Coordinator, Ethics and Regulatory

• Application Deadline: 27th May 2025

INTRODUCTION

Are you passionate about clinical research, public health, and community impact? Do you have a keen eye for detail, exceptional data collection skills, and the drive to contribute to a high-impact, NIH-funded clinical trial? This is your opportunity to join a pivotal research initiative focused on improving health outcomes for people living with HIV through integrated behavioral and pharmacological interventions.

The Research Assistant – Smoking Cessation Study role is a dynamic and rewarding position within a groundbreaking five-year clinical trial. This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of combined treatment approaches for smoking and alcohol cessation among HIV-positive individuals in Nairobi. Your primary role will be to screen, recruit, enroll, and follow up with study participants—ensuring high-quality data collection and ethical compliance throughout.

Based in Nairobi, this role is well-suited for a research professional who is organized, self-motivated, and committed to advancing evidence-based interventions for vulnerable populations in Kenya.

ABOUT CIHEB-KENYA

The Center for International Health, Education, and Biosecurity–Kenya (CIHEB-Kenya) is a local non-profit organization affiliated with the University of Maryland Baltimore. CIHEB-Kenya specializes in implementing public health research, education, and service delivery programs across Kenya. With a mission rooted in the promotion of health equity and disease prevention, CIHEB-Kenya operates at the forefront of HIV/AIDS research, health systems strengthening, and clinical trials.

In collaboration with international partners and local institutions, CIHEB-Kenya implements impactful, evidence-driven programs that serve diverse populations throughout the country. The organization is known for upholding high ethical standards, investing in human capital development, and ensuring rigorous adherence to clinical research protocols.

CIHEB-Kenya’s Smoking and Alcohol Cessation Trial is supported by funding from the National Institutes of Health (NIH), reflecting the global importance of this research and its potential to inform future treatment strategies across sub-Saharan Africa.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

As a Research Assistant assigned to the Smoking Cessation Study, your responsibilities will include both fieldwork and administrative duties aligned with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and Human Subject Protection standards. Your tasks will be centered on participant engagement, data integrity, and study compliance.

• Participant Screening and Recruitment

  • Identify and approach eligible individuals for potential participation in the study.

  • Administer pre-screening criteria to determine participant eligibility as per the study protocol.

• Informed Consent Procedures

  • Guide participants through the informed consent process, ensuring full understanding of study goals, procedures, and ethical safeguards.

  • Obtain and document informed consent in line with CIHEB-Kenya’s ethical policies and NIH guidelines.

• Conduct Interviews and Collect Data

  • Administer structured questionnaires and interview guides using pre-approved study tools.

  • Collect and record behavioral, demographic, and clinical data with precision and professionalism.

• Counseling and Participant Support

  • Conduct basic behavioral counseling sessions focused on smoking and alcohol cessation techniques as outlined in the protocol.

  • Support participant adherence to treatment regimens and follow-up appointments.

• Tracking and Retention of Study Participants

  • Maintain detailed tracking logs and follow-up schedules for enrolled participants.

  • Conduct community-based follow-ups and telephone tracing for missed visits.

• Data Entry and Quality Assurance

  • Input data into study databases, ensuring accuracy, consistency, and timely updates.

  • Perform double-checks and validation steps to minimize errors and maintain data integrity.

• Administrative Reporting

  • Submit weekly activity reports to the Study Coordinator, including enrollment summaries and follow-up outcomes.

  • Participate in team debriefings and provide feedback to improve study implementation.

• Protocol Compliance and GCP Standards

  • Adhere strictly to the study protocol, standard operating procedures (SOPs), and all applicable regulatory frameworks.

  • Assist in internal audits, site monitoring visits, and protocol amendment implementations.

QUALIFICATIONS AND SKILLS

To succeed in this role, candidates must demonstrate a strong academic background, hands-on research experience, and a commitment to ethical research conduct. The ideal candidate should possess the following:

Academic Requirements

• Bachelor’s degree in Biomedical Sciences, Applied Sciences, Public Health, Demography, Epidemiology, or a related Social Science field from a recognized institution.

Professional Experience

• At least 2 years of relevant work experience as a research assistant in a clinical, behavioral, or public health setting.

• Familiarity with clinical trial protocols, including subject protection, GCP, and data management procedures.

Certifications and Training

• Valid Certificate in Protection of Human Research Subjects.

• Certification in Good Clinical Practice (GCP).

Technical Proficiency

• Demonstrated experience in data entry and database management.

• Proficiency in using data collection platforms such as REDCap is a strong advantage.

• Comfortable using Microsoft Office Suite, email, and internet-based communication tools.

Communication and Interpersonal Skills

• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English and Kiswahili.

• Empathetic and respectful demeanor when working with vulnerable populations.

• Strong interpersonal skills and ability to build rapport with participants and colleagues.

Other Required Attributes

• High level of attention to detail, organization, and record-keeping accuracy.

• Ability to work independently and manage multiple responsibilities simultaneously.

• Willingness to engage in community-based tracing, including phone and in-person follow-ups.

COMPANY CULTURE AND VALUES

CIHEB-Kenya is deeply committed to creating a safe, respectful, and purpose-driven work environment. Employees are empowered to contribute ideas, take initiative, and grow professionally while delivering programs that positively impact Kenyan communities.

The organization emphasizes:

• Research Integrity: All study activities are conducted under strict ethical frameworks.

• Capacity Building: Staff receive training, mentorship, and tools for professional advancement.

• Community-Centered Programming: Projects are designed to benefit underserved populations with a human-centered approach.

• Diversity and Inclusion: CIHEB-Kenya actively supports equitable hiring and values contributions from individuals of all backgrounds.

• Collaboration and Teamwork: Internal teams work across disciplines to achieve high-quality program outcomes.

HOW TO APPLY

Qualified and motivated applicants are encouraged to submit their applications as soon as possible.

To Apply:

Send your CV and a brief cover letter to CIHEBKENYA_Recruitment@cihebkenya.org with the subject line: “Application – Research Assistant – Smoking Cessation Study.”

Deadline for Submissions: 27th May 2025

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Late applications will not be considered.

CIHEB-Kenya is an equal opportunity employer. We value diversity and encourage individuals from all backgrounds, including women, youth, and persons with disabilities, to apply.

ADDITIONAL ENGAGEMENT

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Browse More Public Health Jobs on The Kenyan Job Finder – Discover high-impact roles in research, development, and clinical science across Kenya.

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