Senior Research Assistant, IGHD

The Aga Khan University’s Institute for Global Health and Development (IGHD), established in 2020, provides a distinctive platform to foster strategic collaborations among AKU, the University of Central Asia, and the Aga Khan Development Network. IGHD focuses on addressing pressing global health and environmental challenges through multidisciplinary research in four key thematic areas: Sustainable Development Goals (including social determinants of health), Gender Equity and Empowerment, Climate Change, Urban Development and Health, and Agriculture, Food Security, and Nutrition. This grant-funded contractual position is primarily based in Badin, Pakistan, with potential work assignments in Karachi. The role offers an opportunity to contribute meaningfully to research that impacts health and development outcomes within diverse community settings.

Key Responsibilities:
- Work closely with the Research Specialist and Research Manager to define and accomplish the research project’s goals and objectives.
- Independently conduct interviews and prepare comprehensive notes from trainings, interviews, and observation visits.
- Facilitate meetings within the research team and with junior research staff to ensure effective communication and project progress.
- Conduct household visits within communities to oversee training completion and data collection, ensuring quality assurance throughout.
- Coordinate logistical arrangements with administrative staff to support project activities.
- Promote community awareness in line with project guidelines to enhance engagement and participation.
- Carry out additional tasks as assigned by the supervisor to support overall project success.
- Participate in thorough employment reference checks as part of the recruitment process.

Required Qualifications:
- Bachelor’s degree or Intermediate education complemented by a Diploma in Lady Health Visitor (LHV) or Midwifery.
- At least one year of relevant work experience is preferred.
- Demonstrated cultural sensitivity and the ability to work effectively within diverse community environments.
- Strong time management skills with the ability to prioritize and manage multiple tasks efficiently.
- Excellent teamwork and interpersonal communication skills to collaborate effectively with colleagues and community members.
- Resilience and the capacity to work under pressure in challenging settings.
- Willingness to engage directly with community environments and stakeholders.
- Proficiency in using handheld devices for data collection purposes.
- Strong community engagement skills to build trust and foster cooperation.

Preferred Qualifications and Benefits:
- Experience working in community health or development projects will be an advantage.
- The position is part of Aga Khan Hospital & Medical College under the Aga Khan University framework, offering a supportive and inclusive academic environment.
- This role provides an opportunity to work on impactful research addressing critical global health and development challenges.
- Comprehensive employment reference checks ensure a high standard of candidate suitability.
- The contract is based primarily in Badin with potential assignments in Karachi, providing exposure to diverse field settings.

This role is ideal for candidates passionate about contributing to meaningful research and development initiatives within a respected institution committed to diversity, inclusion, and respectful workplace relationships.