National Research Project Director at iCARE Nigeria

The Intensive Combination Approach to Rollback the HIV Epidemic in Nigeria (iCARE, Nigeria), is funded by the United States National Institutes of Health (NIH) to develop and evaluate interventions to improve HIV testing and linkage, and HIV care outcomes, among youth (age 15-24 years) in Nigeria, using theoretically-grounded peer navigation and mHealth components. Currently being piloted in Ibadan, this multicenter research is anticipated to extend to six clinical research sites in Lagos and Jos, in the last quarter of 2020.

ICARE Nigeria is seeking to recruit an experienced professional, to join the leadership team and support the successful implementation of the study in the capacity below:

Job Title: National Research Project Director

Location: Lagos

Job Description

The successful candidate will provide technical leadership for implementation and monitoring of research activities, encompassing innovative interventions for HIV testing and treatment in youth and priority key populations.

Responsibilities

Assist the Principal Investigators to provide technical leadership for the implementation and monitoring of the research protocol at all participating sites.
Support program efforts by providing guidance and hands-on support for training research program staff.
Develop program monitoring and evaluation instruments and associated operations manual
Contribute to and oversee monitoring and evaluation efforts.
Facilitate NIH-mandated site monitoring activities.
Represent iCARE, Nigeria in collaborations with relevant Nigeria institutions and entitles through relationship building, information sharing, and representation.
Facilitate, draft, and participate in the development of technical reports, such as: monthly, quarterly, and/or annual reports and newsletters; strategic plans and work plans; and other ad hoc reports, as required.
Stay abreast of state-of-the-art developments in quality and innovations related to clinical research implementation and social service system strengthening and share relevant information as appropriate.
Travel as needed to project sites for technical assistance, training, and supervision.

Qualifications

Minimum Master’s degree in Social Sciences or Public Health with a clear focus on HIV and gender or adolescents’ health issues. A doctoral degree (PhD) in a relevant field is an advantage. Medical doctors are also encouraged to apply.
Minimum of five years’ experience in implementing research programs / projects related to HIV and/or gender-related barriers to services and equality in Sub- Saharan Africa, preferably in Nigeria.
Proven track record of thriving as part of a team and fostering collaboration to achieve goals, meet milestones, and produce quality results.
Skills and experience in program monitoring and evaluation, including quantitative and qualitative methodologies.
A good understanding of the intersections between health, gender, and human rights.
Comprehensive knowledge of the social welfare context and health system in Nigeria
Understanding of PEPFAR OVC programming priorities, strategies, and monitoring and evaluation tools and systems.
Excellent oral and written communication skills (including presentations) in English (professional level) required.
Willingness to travel regularly and in difficult circumstances.
Leadership qualities and the ability to create synergies where applicable.
Excellent interpersonal skills and ability to work as part of a team.
Expert computer skills in Microsoft Office applications, including Word, Excel, PowerPoint and Outlook.