Research Specialist Job Busara

Research Specialist Job

Responsibilities include:

Field Operations Management

• Manage and oversee data collection efforts, including planning logistics for regular in-person and phone surveys.
• Train enumerators and field teams to ensure consistency and accuracy in data collection.
• Manage field teams at project sites from CBD/Kilimani in Nairobi, collect regular updates on data collection progress and spending, tackle any challenges the team faces, and escalate as appropriate
• Conduct daily High Frequency Checks (HFCs) to identify and resolve data quality issues in real-time

Research Implementation & Coordination

• Ensure the intervention and data collection adhere strictly to the research protocol
• Liaise regularly with academic research teams outside the country via weekly calls, raise implementation concerns, and coordinate on corrective measures.
• Support the design and implementation of the study at all stages of the randomized evaluation, in collaboration with Principal Investigators (PIs)
• Document the data monitoring process, including any deviations from the original study design

Data Management & Quality Assurance

• Code and troubleshoot surveys using tools such as SurveyCTO, Qualtrics, and support lab-based experiments via oTree
• Implement randomization protocols
• Establish and maintain robust data quality safeguards and auditing systems
• Manage and clean data to ensure adherence to ethical standards and facilitate the replication of study results
• Ensure the project complies with all relevant ethical requirements

Data Analysis

• Analyze quantitative data generated by the experiment to produce insights and support reporting needs.

Essential Qualifications and Traits

• Experience in team management in any context
• Hold, or be close to completion of, a Bachelor’s or Master’s (preferred) degree in Economics, Statistics, Political Science, Psychology, Mathematics, or a related discipline requiring substantial quantitative coursework
• Strong skills in econometrics and programming (especially STATA and/or R)
• Keen understanding of randomized controlled trials and experimental methods
• Excellent oral and written communication skills in English
• Strong managerial and organizational skills, and the ability to work under pressure
• A systematic, thorough, and well-organised approach to work, with high levels of accuracy and attention to detail, and the ability to take responsibility for the delivery of research outputs to specific deadlines
• A committed and collaborative team player, with the ability to work constructively and effectively with research partners
• Highly self-motivated and able to take initiative without much supervision
• Willingness to be based in Nairobi, Kenya, for at least two years
• Demonstrated interest in development economics

Preferred Qualifications and Traits

• Previous research experience in designing and conducting field and/or lab experiments
• Previous experience living and/or conducting research in low-income countries is highly valued for non-Kenyan candidates
• Familiarity with survey programming in Survey CTO (strongly desired), Qualtrics, and/or equivalent
• Experience conducting lab experiments using oTree will be an advantage
• Experience in programming languages, especially Python, will be an advantage
• Interest and training in development and behavioral economics
• Leadership potential with the ability to inspire and lead field and lab teams with intelligence, dedication, and kindness
• Swahili fluency is a strong advantage
• Contract Duration: An 18-month commitment is required. The initial appointment is for one year, with renewal pending satisfactory performance. The proposed start date is flexible.
• Hiring Process: Applications for this position require you to include a statement of purpose (cover letter), your CV, and academic transcripts. Shortlisted candidates will be required to provide two letters of recommendation (ideally from previous supervisors or university professors who can speak to your relevant experience) and complete a coding test. This test will cover basic data handling, cleaning, and analysis skills. Candidates will be invited if shortlisted.
• Employment Conditions and Support: As part of the employment package, the organization offers comprehensive support to international applicants, including coverage of reasonable relocation expenses, one annual return flight, and visa and immigration support to ensure a smooth and compliant transition. All employees are provided with a private medical insurance.

How to Apply

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