Research Scientist – Health Focus

Overview

The Research Scientist will join the Applied Research & Methods (ARM) team at Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA), spearheading technical research including randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental impact evaluations, and survey methodologies primarily in health interventions across Sub-Saharan Africa. This role demands leadership in designing and executing coverage surveys, program audits, and health data evaluations dedicated mainly to infectious disease prevention, especially malaria control programs. The Scientist will also be responsible for grant development, guiding field teams, and engaging with partners to deliver actionable insights that aid poverty alleviation efforts.

Key Responsibilities

• Develop and lead survey protocols and audit procedures, defining sampling frameworks, surveys, and quality assurance processes.
• Act as principal investigator for multiple evaluations, including surveys and audits of health facilities and data validation efforts.
• Offer expert advice on health system operations and data limitations in countries such as Nigeria and others in West Africa.
• Coordinate with data collection units to ensure field operations adhere to protocols and maintain data integrity.
• Build and maintain collaborations with governmental health agencies and program stakeholders to facilitate data collection.
• Oversee analysis and reporting activities to communicate findings to partners and funding entities.
• Mentor research field personnel including enumerators, coordinators, and associates.
• Prepare and submit research proposals with comprehensive study designs, budgets, and narratives aimed at funding acquisition.
• Critically assess technical components of new research proposals.

Required Qualifications

• PhD or equivalent in epidemiology, biostatistics, public health, health economics, or related social sciences.
• Deep knowledge of health systems, particularly regarding the functioning of health facilities, quality and challenges of facility-level data, and methods for engaging facility staff in data validation.
• Proven experience conducting research or fieldwork within Sub-Saharan Africa.
• Competency in drafting detailed research proposals, including budget and methodological design.

Preferred Qualifications

• Specialization in malaria or infectious disease program research and data management.
• Expertise on data measurement issues related to nutrition, WASH sectors, vaccination coverage, reproductive health, and family planning.
• Familiarity with health systems in Nigeria or other West African nations.
• Experience working in Nigeria or Democratic Republic of Congo.
• Practical training in survey methodologies including sampling design and fieldwork execution.
• Leadership experience managing culturally diverse research teams.
• Ability to design and implement randomized controlled trials.
• Publications relevant to public health, malaria, or survey research methods.
• Experience conducting workshops or teaching in measurement and monitoring and evaluation methodologies.
• Capacity to expand IPA’s health portfolio by strengthening ties with partners and funders.
• Proficiency in French language.

Location and Travel

While IPA prefers candidates based in Nigeria or select West African countries (Ghana, Sierra Leone, Côte d'Ivoire) and then East African countries (Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania), candidates from any IPA-registered country are welcome to apply. Extensive travel within Sub-Saharan Africa to oversee field data collection quality is integral to this role.

Reporting

This position reports directly to the Chief Research and Methods Officer (CRMO).

About Innovations for Poverty Action

IPA is an influential nonprofit dedicated to discovering and promoting effective poverty alleviation strategies through rigorous research and evaluation worldwide, partnering with academics and decision-makers. Since 2002, IPA has collaborated with over 600 researchers to complete more than 1,000 evaluations spanning 52 countries, impacting millions globally.

Safeguarding Commitment

IPA prioritizes a secure and respectful environment for all, especially children and vulnerable adults. Candidates must adhere to IPA’s safeguarding standards, fostering ethical conduct and social responsibility throughout their work to help create a dignified and inclusive world.