Job Purpose:
Micronutrient deficiencies in pregnant women pose a significant public health challenge in Nepal. Pregnant women require essential micronutrients for their health and the development of their babies. Unfortunately, many pregnant women in Nepal do not get enough of these vital micronutrients like iron, folic acid, and vitamin A. This deficiency can harm the health of both the mother and the baby.
Research suggests that using a multiple micronutrient supplement (MMS) based on the United Nations International Multiple Micronutrient Antenatal Preparation (UNIMMAP) is more effective than iron and folic acid (IFA) supplements in improving the health of pregnant women and their babies.
Helen Keller International, along with other partners, conducted a landscape analysis in Nepal that recommended further research to understand how well pregnant women accept and adhere to MMS. The results of this research will help policymakers decide whether to transition from IFA to MMS.
Overall Responsibilities:
The Research Coordinator will work closely with stakeholders to set research goals, create research plans, and set timelines. They will also design research methods, including data collection tools and sampling strategies.
In terms of data collection and analysis, the Research Coordinator will support various activities such as surveys, interviews, and group discussions. They will ensure high data quality and ethical research practices. Using statistical and qualitative analysis techniques, they will help extract meaningful insights from the data.
The Research Coordinator will also be involved in reporting and sharing findings. They will prepare research reports and presentations for different audiences. They will work with Research Managers to turn research results into actionable recommendations.
The position also includes upholding Helen Keller’s best practices, following the code of conduct, and ensuring financial accountability and confidentiality. Meeting donor reporting and compliance requirements is essential.
Ensuring quality is a top priority in Helen Keller’s programs, and all managers must oversee monitoring and evaluation to achieve the best outcomes.
As gender and Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) are core components of Helen Keller’s programs, all personnel must ensure sensitivity and integration within their work.
Specific roles and responsibilities:
- Support in data collection activities including monitoring data collectors and ensure data quality.
- Support Research Manager in training of health workers, Research Officers, and Research Associates.
- Support Research Manager in creating and maintaining a structured database, organizing data, and ensuring security and compliance.
- Support in conducting both quantitative and qualitative data analysis and summarize findings.
- Maintain detailed research records and documentation.
- Support in preparing draft research reports and engage in knowledge translation.
- Ensure research compliance with ethical guidelines and participant privacy.
- Collaborate with Research Officers, Research Associates, and stakeholders.
- Provide regular updates to supervisor/s, ensuring compliance with reporting requirements.
Educational qualifications and experiences: Master’s degree in public health, nutrition, epidemiology, or a related field. With minimum six years of experience working in research related projects in INGO/development organizations and/or consultancies with INGOs, bilateral, or multilateral agencies, particularly in the field of maternal and child health nutrition with strong analytical skills and proficiency in statistical software (SPSS, Stata, NVivo, etc.). Should also have the ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and diverse stakeholders.
