Zambart is an independent Zambian research organization that was registered with PACRA in 2004. Zambart developed from a longstanding research partnership between the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) and the University of Zambia which began in 1988, and it has become one of Zambia’s leading research groups specialising in Tuberculosis (TB) and Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV).

We facilitate quality interdisciplinary health research on issues of public health importance in Zambia. Over the years, Zambart has expanded its scope to include both qualitative and quantitative studies around TB and HIV as well as other infections and public health issues such as poverty, mental health and more. Results from numerous studies have contributed to policy and practice at both national and global levels.

Zambart staff form an interdisciplinary team with a range of expertise including epidemiology, clinical science, social science, laboratory, operations research, health systems and services research, health policy analysis, health economics, health communication research compliance and counselling.

Study Summary:

The purpose of the study is to evaluate the role and effectiveness of new TB skin tests and IGRAs in initiating preventive treatment for Tuberculosis infections in Zambia. The study will be a pragmatic parallel arm, randomised controlled trial. The project will run for 6 months (January 2024 – June 2024) in the Chipulukuso-Mapalo community, at two sites (Mapalo clinic and community hub established under the main TB REACH project).

This TB REACH will increase community awareness about TB preventive therapy (TPT), identify those at risk of TB infection, and put them on TPT. Use of shorter TPT regimens that have recently been recommended by the World Health Organisation (WHO).

To support our wide range of research activities, we are looking for full time candidates to fill the following positions:

Research Assistant (01)- Chipulukusu-Mapalo, Ndola, 6 months contract

Position Summary: The Research Assistant is responsible for identifying eligible participants; administering informed consent for study participants and ensuring that all study related activities are done in accordance with the study protocol. The Research assistant is tasked with the following.

Responsibilities:

• Identify eligible participants for recruitment into the study at both Mapalo clinic and the community hub.
• Obtain informed consent from the participants
• Ensure that informed consent is duly administered consistent with the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP).
• Conduct follow up study related activities on recruited participants.
• Reports any protocol deviations immediately to the study nurse and study manager.
• Coordinate all TB infection research activities at the hub and Mapalo clinic effectively with all study team members.
• Communicate results to participants in a professional manner while maintaining confidentiality.
• Perform any other duties as may be assigned by the supervisor.

Requirements

• Must be a grade twelve (12) and at least 21 years and above.
• Good social communication skills.
• Knowledge of TB/HIV research.
• Computer literacy and ability to use an electronic data capture device (tablet).
• Be registered with Counselling Council of Zambia.
• A minimum of 2 years work experience.
• Fluency in English and one or more local languages spoken in the target communities. Bemba speaking will be an added benefit.
• Must be willing to work long hours or work in different study site locations.
• Previous experience as a home-based care worker, TB treatment support worker Lay Counsellor or community health worker is beneficial.
• Excellent communication skills.