Job Description
JOB TITLE: Research Associate, Gender and Health
ORGANIZATION: Ethiopian Public Health Institute (EPHI)
LOCATION: Addis Ababa, Ethiopia
REPORTS TO: Head, Gender and Health Research Unit/Senior Researcher
JOB TYPE: Full-time, Contract (with possibility of renewal based on performance and funding)
JOB SUMMARY:
The Research Associate, Gender and Health, will be an integral part of the Ethiopian Public Health Institute’s research team, specifically contributing to projects focused on understanding and addressing the intersections of gender and health. This role involves active participation across the entire research lifecycle, from conceptualization and design to data collection, rigorous analysis, and effective dissemination of research findings. The Research Associate will play a crucial role in generating evidence to inform gender-responsive health policies and programs in Ethiopia.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
- Research Project Support and Implementation:
- Contribute to the conceptualization and design of new research projects related to gender and health, including developing research questions, methodologies, and tools.
- Participate in the preparation of research protocols, ethical review applications, and grant proposals.
- Assist in the development and refinement of data collection instruments (e.g., questionnaires, interview guides, focus group discussion guides) ensuring gender sensitivity.
- Contribute to the development of detailed work plans and timelines for research activities.
- Data Collection and Management:
- Oversee and participate in primary data collection activities, including conducting interviews, facilitating focus group discussions, and administering surveys, ensuring adherence to ethical guidelines and quality standards.
- Provide training and supervision to field data collectors as needed, emphasizing gender-sensitive data collection approaches.
- Ensure the quality, accuracy, and completeness of collected data through rigorous data cleaning and validation processes.
- Manage and organize research datasets, ensuring data security and confidentiality.
- Data Analysis and Interpretation:
- Conduct qualitative and/or quantitative data analysis using appropriate statistical software (e.g., SPSS, Stata, R, NVivo, Atlas.ti) to explore gender dimensions in health outcomes, access, and service utilization.
- Interpret research findings within the broader context of gender theories, health inequalities, and the Ethiopian health system.
- Contribute to the synthesis of findings, drawing out key insights and policy implications.
- Dissemination and Knowledge Translation:
- Contribute significantly to the drafting and editing of research reports, policy briefs, scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed journals, and presentations.
- Prepare and deliver presentations on research findings to various audiences, including policymakers, academics, and community stakeholders.
- Assist in organizing workshops, seminars, and other knowledge-sharing events to disseminate research outcomes and promote evidence utilization.
- Support the development of communication materials (e.g., infographics, factsheets) to translate complex research findings into accessible formats.
- Literature Review and Grant Writing:
- Conduct comprehensive literature reviews on gender and health topics to inform research design and contextualize findings.
- Assist in identifying funding opportunities and contribute to the preparation of competitive grant proposals.
- Capacity Building and Collaboration:
- Participate in relevant training programs and workshops to enhance personal research skills and knowledge in gender and health.
- Collaborate effectively with EPHI colleagues, other research institutions, government ministries, NGOs, and international partners.
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
- Education:
- Master’s degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Social Sciences, Gender Studies, Demography, or a related field with a strong focus on research methods and gender.
- A first degree in Public Health, Nursing, Sociology, or a related field is required.
- Experience:
- Minimum of [e.g., 2-4] years of practical experience in health research, with demonstrated involvement in all stages of the research process (design, data collection, analysis, reporting).
- Proven experience specifically in gender and health research or research incorporating a gender lens is highly preferred.
- Experience with both qualitative and quantitative research methodologies is an advantage.
- Prior experience working with a research institution, public health organization, or academic setting in Ethiopia.
- Familiarity with ethical guidelines for human subjects research.
- Skills and Competencies:
- Strong understanding of gender concepts, gender analysis frameworks, and their application in health contexts.
- Proficiency in qualitative and/or quantitative data analysis software (e.g., NVivo, Atlas.ti, SPSS, Stata, R).
- Excellent report writing, scientific writing, and presentation skills in English.
- Fluency in Amharic (both written and spoken) is essential. Knowledge of other local Ethiopian languages is an asset.
- Strong organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Ability to work independently, manage multiple tasks, and meet deadlines.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills for effective team collaboration and stakeholder engagement.
- A proactive attitude, curiosity, and a commitment to evidence-based public health.
- Ability to travel periodically for data collection or dissemination activities within Ethiopia.
APPLICATION PROCESS:
Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit a cover letter detailing their motivation and suitability for the role, a comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV) including three professional references, and copies of their academic credentials. Applications should be sent to [Insert Application Submission Method – e.g., “the Human Resources Department, Ethiopian Public Health Institute, via email at [email protected]” or “through the EPHI online application portal [link]”]. Please clearly indicate “Application for Research Associate, Gender and Health” in the subject line of your email.
APPLICATION DEADLINE: [Insert Date – e.g., July 15, 2025]
NOTE: EPHI is an equal opportunity employer and encourages applications from qualified individuals regardless of gender, religion, ethnicity, or disability. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.