Research Consultant at Lagos State Ministry of Health (GMU)

The Lagos State Ministry of Health (LSMOH) is a Principal Recipient (PR) of the Global Fund Resilient and Sustainable Systems for Health (RSSH) Grant. As the Principal Recipient, the Ministry of Health is legally responsible for the management of the grant, whilst ensuring the achievement of the programmatic results and accountability of the grant’s resources.

Subsequently, the Ministry of Health established the Grant Management Unit (GMU) to work with other implementing units within the Ministry and implementing partners in executing and implementing various programs in compliance with the grant agreement signed between The Global Fund and LSMOH

We are recruiting to fill the position below:

Job Title: Research Consultant

Location: Ikeja, Lagos
Employment Type: Contract
Duration of Consultancy: The assignment will be undertaken for a period of two (2) Month.

Objectives

• The objective of this consultancy engagement is to enhance the research capabilities of the research Unit of the Directorate of Healthcare Planning, Research & Statistics (DHCPRS) within the Lagos State Ministry of Health (LSMOH).
• This will be achieved by building the capacity of the research officers, improving data management systems, standardizing research processes, and ensuring that research outputs effectively inform health policy and practice.
• The consultant will provide the necessary expertise and support to establish a sustainable and robust research infrastructure that can generate high-quality, actionable health data, thereby contributing to better health outcomes for the population of Lagos State

Enhance Research Capacity:

• Build the capacity of the Research Unit officers by providing advanced training in research methodologies, data collection, data analysis, and manuscript writing.
• Equip the staff with the necessary skills and knowledge to conduct high-quality, impactful research independently.

Improve Data Management Systems:

• Review and optimize the existing database and data management processes to ensure the accuracy, reliability, and accessibility of health data.
• Develop and implement sustainable systems for data collection, management, and analysis.

Standardize Research Processes:

• Develop comprehensive research manuals and standard operating procedures (SOPs) for conducting research, including fieldwork protocols, data collection methods, and analysis techniques.
• Ensure these processes are standardized across the Research Unit to maintain consistency and quality.

Facilitate High-Quality Research Outputs:

• Support the Research Unit in designing and executing research studies, including the development of research protocols and proposals.
• Assist in drafting, editing, and submitting research manuscripts for publication in reputable journals.

Translate Research into Policy:

• Analyze survey data and convert research findings into clear, concise policy briefs that can inform decision-making at all levels of healthcare.
• Ensure that research outcomes directly impact health policies and practices, contributing to improved health outcomes for the population of Lagos State.

Sustainability and Knowledge Transfer:

• Develop a strategy for ongoing capacity building to ensure the sustainability of the enhanced skills and processes within the Research Unit.
• Facilitate knowledge transfer through mentoring and continuous support, ensuring that the improvements are maintained and built upon in the future.

Support Decision-Making:

• Provide the LSMOH with high-quality, actionable data and insights to inform evidence-based health policies and interventions.
• Enhance the ability of the Research Unit to produce reliable data that can support strategic planning and resource allocation.

Key Deliverables

• These key deliverables are designed to address the capacity constraints of the Research Unit, enhance the skills of its staff, and establish robust systems and processes for conducting high-quality research and coordination. By standardizing research methodologies, improving data management, and providing advanced training, the consultant will enable the Research Unit to conduct impactful research that informs health policy and improves health outcomes in Lagos State.
• The deliverables will also ensure sustainability, ensuring that the unit can continue to function effectively and independently in the future.
• Comprehensive Assessment Report: To deliver a detailed assessment report outlining the current research processes, identifying gaps, and recommending improvements. The report should provide a clear understanding of the existing challenges and opportunities, thus forming the foundation for subsequent activities.
• Research Manuals: To develop and deliver comprehensive research manuals that include standard operating procedures for research activities, fieldwork, data collection, and analysis techniques. These manuals will standardize processes within the Research Unit, ensuring consistency and quality in research activities.
• Training Programs and Workshops: Conduct training sessions and workshops to build the capacity of research officers in drafting research protocols and proposals, conducting fieldwork, data analysis, and manuscript writing. This will enhance the skills of the officers, enabling them to conduct high-quality research independently.
• Statistical Software Training: Provide training on the use of statistical software such as Epi-Info, STATA, SPSS, or R package. By mastering these tools, the unit staff will be able to perform sophisticated data analysis, thereby improving the quality of research outputs.
• Capacity Building for Data Entry Officers: Train data entry officers on efficient data collection and submission processes using relevant software tools. This will ensure that data is accurately captured and managed, facilitating reliable research outcomes.
• Research Protocols and Proposals: Develop and deliver research protocols and proposals for new research initiatives. These documents will guide future research projects, ensuring they are well-planned and methodologically sound.
• Fieldwork Support and Guidance: Provide hands-on support and guidance during fieldwork activities to ensure accurate and effective data collection. This will improve the reliability and validity of the data collected, enhancing the overall quality of the research.
• Data Analysis Reports: Conduct detailed data analysis and deliver comprehensive reports on the findings. Such reports will provide actionable insights that can inform health policy and program decisions.
• Manuscripts for Publication: Assist in the drafting, editing, and submission of research manuscripts for publication in reputable journals. Published research will contribute to the global body of knowledge and enhance the visibility and credibility of the Research Unit of Lagos State Ministry of Health.
• Policy Briefs: Convert survey data and research findings into clear, concise policy briefs. These will inform decision-making at all levels of healthcare, ensuring that research outcomes directly impact health policies and practices.
• Sustainability Strategy: Develop a sustainability strategy to ensure ongoing capacity building and knowledge transfer. This will ensure that the enhanced skills and processes are maintained, supporting the long-term effectiveness of the Research Unit.

Qualifications and Expertise
The ideal candidate for this consultancy position should possess the following qualifications and expertise:

• An Advanced Degree (master’s or PhD) in Public Health, Health Systems Management, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, or a related field.
• Minimum of 7-10 years of relevant experience in health systems research, public health research, or epidemiological studies.
• Proven track record of conducting high-quality research and producing peer-reviewed publications.
• Experience in developing research protocols, proposals, and manuals.
• Experience working with health information systems and managing large datasets.
• Demonstrated experience with capacity-building initiatives and training programs for research staff.
• Previous experience working with Global Fund projects or similar international health grants is highly desirable.
• Proficiency in using statistical software for data analysis, such as Epi-Info, STATA, SPSS, or R package.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to interpret complex data and produce actionable insights.
• Excellent report-writing and documentation skills.
• Familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research methodologies.
• Experience in designing and conducting training programs for research and data management staff.
• Ability to develop training materials and manuals tailored to the specific needs of the Research Unit.
• Proven ability to transfer knowledge and skills to diverse teams effectively.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Strong interpersonal skills with the ability to work collaboratively with a variety of stakeholders, including government officials, healthcare professionals, and community representatives.
• Ability to present complex information clearly and concisely to non-specialist audiences.
• Strong project management skills, including planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.
• Ability to manage multiple tasks and meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Highly organized with attention to detail.
• Demonstrated problem-solving skills and the ability to develop innovative solutions.
• Commitment to ethical research practices and data protection protocols.
• Flexibility and adaptability to changing project needs and conditions.

Application Closing Date
17th December, 2024 - 5pm.