Job Summary
- Employer: Botswana Harvard Health Partnership
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Health Care
- Closing Date: 2026-09-23
Key Responsibilities
- facilitating FGDs and IDIs, qualitative data translation, transcription and coding, caregiver surveys, monthly Quality Improvement (QI) activities, and not limited to supporting neurodevelopmental assessments conducted by government clinic.
- provide research and operational support to other RISE consortium studies (BONDS, IMAGE, and Dissemination and Engagement) as assigned, in accordance with study protocols and SOPs.
Requirements
- Diploma in Health Sciences, Social Science, Public Health or Psychology.
- Experience using any electronic data capturing systems.
- Experience in community-based research, participant tracing, or home visits is an advantage.
- Experience in quantitative and qualitative data collection methods: Conducting surveys and questionnaires. Interviewing participants and recording their responses. Collecting and recording numerical information. Collecting information about participants’ experiences, opinions, and views.
- Previous experience working as a Research Assistant or in a similar research role is preferred.
- Good command of English and Setswana Language.
How to Apply
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications do I need to become a Research Assistant at the Botswana Harvard Health Partnership?
You typically need a Bachelor's degree in public health, epidemiology, nursing, or a related health science field. Some positions may accept a diploma with substantial research experience. Proficiency in data collection tools and basic statistical software like SPSS or R is often required.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Research Assistant in this role?
Daily tasks include recruiting and consenting study participants, administering surveys, collecting biological samples, and maintaining accurate data records. You will also coordinate with clinic staff, attend team meetings, and ensure compliance with ethical protocols. Fieldwork and community engagement are common components of the job.
How does workplace culture in Botswana's health research sector typically operate?
Workplaces emphasize respect for hierarchy and collaborative teamwork across diverse professional backgrounds. Punctuality and reliability are highly valued, as research timelines depend on consistent data collection. Building trust with local communities is essential, so cultural sensitivity and Setswana language skills are advantageous.
What career progression opportunities exist for Research Assistants in Botswana's health sector?
With experience, you can advance to Research Coordinator, Data Manager, or pursue further studies for roles in epidemiology or program management. Many professionals transition into government health departments, international NGOs, or academic institutions. The Botswana Harvard Health Partnership specifically offers exposure to global health networks that can accelerate career development.
What benefits are typically offered for Research Assistant positions in Botswana?
Benefits usually include medical aid coverage, pension contributions through the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund or private schemes, and annual leave entitlements. Some research positions offer additional allowances for fieldwork or transportation. Contract duration and benefit packages vary by funding source and employer policy.
How should I apply for a Research Assistant position, and what do employers in Botswana prioritize?
Submit a detailed CV, certified academic transcripts, and cover letter highlighting any research or community health experience through the specified application portal or email. Employers prioritize candidates with demonstrated data collection experience, strong references, and genuine commitment to health research in Botswana. Tailor your application to show understanding of local health challenges and the specific study objectives.
