Research Interns; Public Health/Social Sciences - Nairobi at Kenya Medical Research - KEMRI in Nairobi, Kenya

    Kenya Medical Research - KEMRI logo

    Research Interns; Public Health/Social Sciences - Nairobi

    Kenya Medical Research - KEMRINairobi, Kenya

    Posted

    6 days ago

    Apply by

    3 Sept

    Contractor
    On Site
    Internship
    Healthcare, Medical & Pharmaceutical
    Research, Teaching & Training

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    Job Description

    This internship involves supporting public health and social science research projects. The role includes conducting literature reviews, developing study protocols and data collection tools, coordinating field activities, and performing qualitative data collection and analysis. The intern will also prepare technical reports and presentations, support community mobilization, and provide administrative and logistical support.

    Key Responsibilities

    • Literature reviews and evidence synthesis.
    • Development of study protocols, data collection tools, and training materials.
    • Coordination of field activities and stakeholder engagement meetings.
    • Qualitative data collection.
    • Data management, transcription, coding, and analysis.
    • Preparation of technical reports, presentations, policy briefs, and manuscripts.
    • Community mobilization and advocacy activities.
    • Monitoring project activities and documenting lessons learned.
    • Administrative and logistical support for project implementation.
    • Any other duties assigned by the project investigators.

    Required Qualifications

    • A Bachelor's degree in Public Health, Sociology, Anthropology, Community Development, Health Promotion, Social Sciences, or a related discipline Mandatory
    • Basic knowledge of public health research methods. Mandatory
    • Experience in qualitative data collection, transcription, coding and analysis Mandatory
    • Knowledge of qualitative software NVivo, Atlas.ti, Dedoose Mandatory
    • Experience working with Ministry of Health programmes, community health workers, or research institutions Mandatory
    • Knowledge of community engagement, health promotion or health education will be an advantage. Added Advantage
    • Good communication and interpersonal skills Mandatory
    • Ability to work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and community settings. Mandatory

    Job Details

    Job Function

    Research, Teaching & Training

    Education Level

    Bachelor’s Degree

    Area of Study

    Social Sciences

    Field of Study

    Public Health

    Languages

    English

    Additional Information

    How to Apply: Interested and qualified candidates should apply online via the KEMRI recruitment portal at erecruitment.kemri.go.ke.

    Show Your Qualitative Research Muscle

    This internship is a doorway into Kenya's public health research scene. Hiring managers will be looking for evidence that you can handle qualitative data from the field to the final report, not just talk about it.

    1. Prove your qualitative toolkit: On your CV, list specific qualitative methods you've used (in-depth interviews, focus groups, etc.) and any software like NVivo or Atlas.ti. Mention a project where you coded and analyzed qualitative data, even if it was for a class or volunteer work.

    2. Know the Kenyan health system: Familiarize yourself with the Ministry of Health's structure and community health worker programs. Be ready to discuss how you've engaged with communities or health workers in past roles.

    3. Prepare a mini research proposal: Think of a public health issue in Kenya and outline a small qualitative study. This shows you can think like a researcher and will impress in an interview.

    4. Brush up on research ethics: Expect questions on informed consent, confidentiality, and working with vulnerable populations. Review the basics of research ethics before the interview.

    5. Highlight your writing skills: Since you'll prepare reports and manuscripts, bring samples of your writing—like a policy brief or a research paper. Make sure they are clear and well-structured.

    6. Show teamwork and adaptability: Research often happens in teams and in unpredictable field settings. Give examples of times you worked in a team or adapted to changing circumstances.

    7. Understand the internship context: This is an internship, so emphasize your eagerness to learn and your ability to take initiative. Ask thoughtful questions about the projects you might support.

    8. Follow up professionally: After applying, consider a polite follow-up email to the HR or hiring team. It shows persistence and interest, but keep it brief and respectful.

    CareerSasa Safety Alert: Never pay employers or agencies for interviews, training, or job placement. Does a job request payment? Report it immediately using the "Flag" button. While CareerSasa vets job postings thoroughly, always verify opportunities independently.
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    Tags

    public health
    social sciences
    qualitative research
    NVivo
    Atlas.ti