Research Scientist - Health Focus

Job Overview

The Research Scientist will join Innovations for Poverty Action's Applied Research & Methods (ARM) team, leading technical research efforts across global programs with emphasis on randomized controlled trials, quasi-experimental evaluations, and survey methodologies. This role concentrates on health-related studies, specifically designing and managing coverage surveys and program audits for large infectious disease prevention initiatives across Sub-Saharan Africa, primarily addressing malaria prevention. The position requires combining expertise in survey design, health system operations, and data quality management to produce reliable, actionable evidence for partners and funders.

Core Responsibilities

• Develop survey protocols and audit methodologies covering sampling design, questionnaires, and data quality assurance.
• Lead evaluations and audits as principal investigator, including data validation at health facilities.
• Provide expertise on health system contexts within Nigeria and West Africa, focusing on facility operations and data constraints.
• Work collaboratively with the Survey Delivery Unit to optimize data collection platforms and field procedures.
• Maintain strong partnerships with governmental health bodies and stakeholders to facilitate data access and support.
• Analyze and report findings to program partners and funders.
• Supervise and mentor field research personnel including enumerators and coordinators.
• Craft research proposals with detailed designs and budgeting while conducting technical evaluations of new study proposals.

Qualifications

• Doctorate or equivalent in epidemiology, biostatistics, public health, health economics, or related social science disciplines.
• Solid understanding of health system functionality, especially facility-level data extraction and validation.
• Proven field research experience in Sub-Saharan African settings.
• Proficiency in writing research proposals including study methodologies and financial plans.
• Preferred expertise in infectious disease programs (particularly malaria), nutrition, water and sanitation, vaccination, reproductive health, and family planning.
• Experience with health systems in Nigeria or West Africa and working in Nigeria or the Democratic Republic of Congo.
• Hands-on training in survey methodology, sampling design, and conducting randomized controlled trials.
• Experienced in supervising culturally diverse teams and delivering workshops on monitoring and evaluation.
• Research publication record related to public health and survey methods.
• French language capability is advantageous.

Additional Information

The role is primarily based in Nigeria but candidates from Ghana, Sierra Leone, Cote d'Ivoire, Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, Tanzania, or other IPA-registered countries will be considered. Travel within Sub-Saharan Africa to ensure data integrity at collection sites will be necessary. This position reports directly to the Chief Research and Methods Officer (CRMO).

About Innovations for Poverty Action (IPA)

IPA is a nonprofit research organization dedicated to discovering effective interventions to reduce global poverty through rigorous evaluation and partnership with policymakers and practitioners. Since 2002, IPA has collaborated with over 600 researchers on more than 1,000 studies in 52 countries, influencing millions worldwide.

Safeguarding Commitment

IPA is committed to safeguarding children and vulnerable adults by maintaining a safe, respectful environment and upholding ethical standards. Selected candidates must adhere to these safeguarding principles.