🏥 NGO Jobs · Nairobi, Kenya
CIHEB Kenya Is Hiring: Research Assistants & Data Assistant (NIH-Funded Study)
Three positions open at one of Kenya's most respected health research organisations. Here is everything you need to know before you apply.
If you are in public health, data management, or applied sciences and looking for a role that actually means something — this one is worth your full attention. CIHEB Kenya is not a small local startup. It is a well-funded, globally connected health research organisation, and these three positions sit at the centre of a major clinical trial.
Let us break everything down for you — who CIHEB is, what each role involves, what they are looking for, and exactly how to apply.
About CIHEB Kenya
The Center for International Health, Education and Biosecurity (CIHEB) Kenya is a local NGO founded through the Institute of Human Virology at the University of Maryland, Baltimore. It brings together international health experts and local stakeholders to fight infectious and non-communicable diseases. Their work spans HIV/TB programs, health systems strengthening, biosecurity, and research — operating across multiple Kenyan counties with funding from major bodies including the NIH and PEPFAR.
Position 1 & 2: Research Assistant (2 Posts)
Research Assistant
2 Vacancies
What You Will Do
- Recruit, screen, and enroll study participants following the study protocol strictly
- Conduct structured interviews with participants using standardised data collection tools per SOPs
- Follow up enrolled participants throughout the study period and support retention
- Administer study questionnaires and assist with behavioral counselling sessions
- Maintain accurate participant records and flag any protocol deviations to the coordinator
- Support field operations at participating health facilities including clinic visits
Who They Are Looking For
EducationBachelor's degree in Biomedical Sciences, Applied Sciences, Public Health, Demography, Epidemiology, or a relevant Social Science from a recognised institution
Computer SkillsProficient in computer applications and data entry. Experience with REDCap data collection tools is a definite added advantage
Work StyleAble to work independently with minimal supervision in a fast-paced clinical research environment
People SkillsComfortable engaging with study participants sensitively, especially those living with HIV — confidentiality and empathy are non-negotiable
💡 Tip for Research Assistant Applicants
If you have ever worked in community health, data collection for an NGO, or done field research during your degree — highlight that prominently. Experience with any clinical trial, even as a volunteer or intern, will set you apart. Tailor your cover letter to the HIV research context specifically.
Position 3: Data Assistant (1 Post)
Data Assistant
1 Vacancy
What You Will Do
- Collect, enter, clean, and analyse program data accurately and on time
- Maintain program databases and dashboards — keeping data complete and consistent
- Build data visualisations and prepare analytical reports to guide program decisions
- Develop and test digital data collection tools, including REDCap forms
- Conduct field data collection using mobile devices and paper-based qualitative forms
- Ensure all field devices are charged and functioning before any assessment
- Support community visits, focus group discussions, and qualitative research exercises
- Prepare ad hoc reports as needed and maintain a clean, organised filing system
- Liaise with County Health Management Teams (CHMT) to consolidate relevant data reports
- Participate in Strategic Information meetings at program and county levels
Who They Are Looking For
EducationBachelor's degree in Public Health, Statistics, Information Systems, or a closely related field
ExperienceMinimum 2 years in data management or M&E — ideally in a public health or humanitarian context
Technical ToolsProficiency in REDCap, Excel, and basic statistical software is required. Mobile data collection experience (e.g., ODK) is a bonus
Soft SkillsStrong organisational ability, analytical thinking, and communication — you will work with both field and office-based teams
💡 Tip for Data Assistant Applicants
Two years of experience is stated, but if you are fresh out of university with solid REDCap or ODK project work from your degree — include it. Attach any relevant samples of dashboards, reports, or data tools you have built. A targeted subject line matters too: use "Application – Data Assistant" exactly as instructed.
How to Apply — Step by Step
- 1Confirm you qualifyCheck the education and experience requirements carefully for the specific role you want. Do not apply for both unless you genuinely fit both — pick your strongest match.
- 2Update your CVTailor it to the role. Highlight relevant research, data tools, or field work experience. A generic CV will hurt your chances — this is a technical position with specific requirements.
- 3Write a focused cover letterOne page max. Why CIHEB? Why this study? What do you bring specifically? Reference your REDCap, data, or community research experience directly.
- 4Email your applicationSend both documents to CIHEBKENYA_Recruitment@cihebkenya.org. Use the correct subject line for your role. No phone calls — only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- 5Submit before the deadlineApplications close on 27 May 2025. Late applications will not be considered — CIHEB is firm on this. Send it today.
⏰ Deadline: 27 May 2025 — No late applications accepted
⚠️ Important Warning
CIHEB Kenya does not charge any fee at any stage of their recruitment process. If anyone contacts you claiming to be from CIHEB and asks for money — report it immediately and do not pay. The only legitimate application email is CIHEBKENYA_Recruitment@cihebkenya.org.
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