Research Coordinator-Consultant

Research Coordinator-Consultant

Period: August 2024-July 2025 (264 days)
Collaboration with:
Internal: Helen Keller alel pNal Staff, APRO, and HQ when required
External: Government, UN agencies, 1/NGOs working in nutrition sector

Job Purpose:

Micronutrient deficiencies in pregnant women pose a significant and pressing public health challenge in Nepal. During pregnancy, there is an increased demand for essential micronutrients to support the growth and development of both the mother and the developing fetus. However, a substantial portion of pregnant women in Nepal continue to suffer from inadequate intake of essential micronutrients, such as iron, folic acid, vitamin A, and others. This deficiency risks the health of pregnant women and has a serious implication for the well-being of their newborns. Within the context of maternal nutrition and micronutrient supplementation, there are evidence suggesting that the multiple micronutrient supplement (MMS) based on the United Nations International Multiple Micronutrient Antenatal Preparation (UNIMMAP) to addressing the complex micronutrient needs of pregnant women and improved birth outcomes compared to IFA supplementation. Considering the evidence base, Helen Keller International in collaboration with various other stakeholders conducted landscape analysis in Nepal which
recommended to conduct the implementation research for exploring the acceptability and adherence of MMS in the pregnant women. The evidence generated from this research will guide policymakers and stakeholders in the decision making for IFA to MMS transition.

Overall Responsibilities:

The Position is responsible for collaborating closely with stakeholders to define clear research objectives in addition to developing comprehensive research plans and timelines to guide project from start to completion. The Research Coordinator Consultant is also tasked with assuring adherence with the proposed research methodologies, including finalization of data collection tools, supporting in development of data entry systems, ensuring data quality assurance and involving in the data analysis aspects of the study. In the realm of data collection and analysis, the Research Coordinator- Consultant will support various data collection activities, such as longitudinal surveys, in-depth interviews, and focus group discussions. The position is responsible for supporting the Research Manager in maintaining the highest standards of data quality and ensuring ethical research practices throughout the process. Utilizing appropriate statistical and qualitative analysis techniques, Research Coordinator- Consultant will support in extracting meaningful insights from the collected data together with the Research Manager. Furthermore, the responsibilities extend to the reporting and dissemination phase as well with preparation of comprehensive draft research reports and presentations tailored to diverse stakeholders. The position will support the Research Manager to translate research results into actionable recommendations and facilitate informed decision-making.

The position is responsible for ensuring Helen Keller’s best practices are upheld, including adherence to the code of conduct, policies and procedures, financial accountability and making sure official matters are kept confidential as well as meeting donors reporting and compliance requirements.

Ensuring quality is a primary objective of Helen Keller’s programming and monitoring and evaluation oversight is a requirement of all managers to achieve the best outcomes possible.

As gender and Diversity Equity and Inclusion (DEI) is a cross-cutting and core component for Helen Keller’s programs, all personnel are required to ensure its sensitivity and integration within their work.

Specific roles and responsibilities:

• Support in data collection activities including ensuring data quality and monitoring the field activities.
• Conduct training of health workers, Research Officers, and Research Associates in demonstration study.
• Create and maintain a structured database, organize data, and ensuring security and compliance.
• Support in conducting both quantitative and qualitative data analysis and summarize findings.
• Maintain detailed research records and documentation.
• Support in preparing draft research reports and engage in knowledge translation.
• Ensure research compliance with ethical guidelines and participants’ privacy.
• Collaborate with Research Officers, Research Associates, and stakeholders in effective implementation of the study.
• Provide regular updates to supervisor/s, ensuring compliance with reporting requirements.

Qualifications and Competencies:

Educational Degree:

• Master’s degree in public health, nutrition, epidemiology, or a related field.

Experiences:

• Minimum five years of experience working in research related projects in INGO/development organizations and/or consultancies with INGOs, bilateral, or multilateral agencies, particularly in the field of maternal and child health nutrition.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in both quantitative and qualitative statistical software (SPSS, Stata, NVivo, etc.).
• Ability to work collaboratively with multidisciplinary teams and diverse stakeholders.
• Having extensive network of contacts within relevant bilateral, multilateral, government agencies and development organizations in Nepal is a plus.

Communication skills:

• Excellent written and spoken Nepali and English language skills.

Flexible and multitask:

• An ability to maintain balance when under stress.
• Experience using Excel, Word, and PowerPoint and other software’s:
• Computer literate and proficient with Microsoft Excel, Word, PowerPoint, and statistical software packages (both qualitative and quantitative such as SPSS, Stata, NVivo, etc.).

Others

• The position is expected to travel in field at least 50% of the time during the job.