ABOUT ZAMBART

Zambart is an independent Zambian research organisation headquartered at the University of Zambia's Ridgeway Campus in Lusaka.

Zambart is internationally recognised for interdisciplinary research on HIV and Tuberculosis and has contributed to HIV and TB policy and practice at both national and global levels.

Its research portfolio also covers broader public health priorities, with expertise spanning epidemiology, clinical science, social science, laboratory research, operations research, health systems and services research, health policy analysis, health economics, health communication and counselling.

ABOUT THE PrEPforTwo STUDY

In collaboration with the Institute of Tropical Medicine (ITM), Antwerp, Belgium, Zambart is implementing the PrEPforTwo study, funded by the Research Foundation Flanders (FWO), Belgium.

PrEPforTwo is a mixed-methods study examining the integration of HIV pre-exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) and syphilis testing into antenatal and postnatal care services in Zambia.

The qualitative component explores individual, social and health-system factors influencing PrEP decision-making among pregnant and postpartum adolescent girls and women, male partners, healthcare providers and community members.

The findings will inform woman-centred and contextually appropriate approaches to strengthen integrated HIV and syphilis prevention services and reduce maternal and perinatal HIV and syphilis infections.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Qualitative Research Assistant will work closely with the Study Supervisor and Principal Investigator to support implementation of the qualitative component of the PrEPforTwo study.

The successful candidates will support qualitative data collection activities, including conducting in-depth interviews and focus group discussions with pregnant and postpartum adolescent girls and women, male partners, healthcare providers and community members.

The position is suited to an early-career researcher with qualitative social science research experience and a strong interest in HIV, sexually transmitted infections (STIs), and integrated HIV/STI prevention within antenatal and postnatal care.

ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES

• Plan and implement qualitative research activities for the PrEPforTwo study.
• Introduce the study and its activities to stakeholders and study participants in study communities.
• Provide study information and obtain informed consent while maintaining privacy, confidentiality and respect.
• Conduct qualitative research activities, including participant recruitment, focus group discussions and interviews.
• Write detailed field notes and interview summaries.
• Transcribe audio recordings accurately and in a timely manner.
• Manage and organise qualitative research data in accordance with Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and study documentation procedures.
• Support qualitative data analysis, including rapid qualitative assessments.
• Support study outputs such as policy briefs, reports, presentations and academic publications.
• Assist with preparation of technical and progress reports for the study funder.
• Undertake other duties assigned by the Study Supervisor or Principal Investigator.

QUALIFICATIONS & EXPERIENCE

• Bachelor's degree in Sociology, Anthropology, Demography, Public Health, Development Studies, Psychology, Social Work, Gender Studies or another relevant social science or health-related discipline from a recognised higher education institution.
• Experience conducting qualitative research, including interviews and focus group discussions.
• Previous experience working on HIV, sexual and reproductive health, maternal health or implementation research projects.
• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
• Strong organisational skills and attention to detail.
• Demonstrated analytical ability, sound judgement and high ethical standards.
• Ability to work independently while contributing effectively within a multidisciplinary team.
• Good computer skills, including proficiency in Microsoft Office.
• Strong interest in pursuing a career in academic or public health research.
• Flexibility and willingness to work in community and health facility settings.
• Fluency in English and at least one local language, preferably Nyanja or Bemba.

DESIRABLE REQUIREMENTS

• Proven experience being active in community activities or research work.
• Prepared to work in a busy and challenging environment and flexible working hours.
• High level of confidentiality.
• Mature.
• Knowledge of the study community.

HOW TO APPLY

Applicants meeting the stated criteria should submit:

• Application letter clearly explaining how you meet the requirements.
• Curriculum Vitae (CV) with traceable references.
• Relevant certificates.

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.