Behavioral Scientist at African Field Epidemiology Network (AFENET)

Background

• AFENET is implementing a project to improve use and quality of PHC data in Nigeria. The project aims to improve data quality, specifically accuracy, completeness and use, using a human centered behavioral science (HCD-BS).
• Planned activities are geared towards improving data quality and use under the hypothesis that completeness and accuracy of routine PHC data is affected by behavioral, technical and organizational factors. AFENET seeks the services of qualified culturally competent personnel to implement the project in six states in northern Nigeria.

Scope of work

• This is a full-time position to be to be stationed at the national office in Abuja with travel to implementing states. One (1) Behavioral Scientist will coordinate activities in three (3) states. They will work closely with the Team Lead and project managers to achieve project objectives and follow up with their respective states to achieve project deliverables.
• S/he should have optimal knowledge of PHC operations in Nigeria and knowledge in behavioral science approaches to health interventions. In addition, S/he should have ability to facilitate trainings and work in diverse settings.

Major duties and responsibilities

• Contribute to the design and the implementation of the behavioural component of a multifaceted formative study aimed at exploring in depth, root causes, enablers and opportunities in data quality in PHC in Nigeria
• Develop a robust learning agenda around various interventions aimed at changing the behaviour of front-line health workers in order to improve PHC data quality and use
• Based on the Fogg’s model, implement interventions utilizing triggers versus peer-led orientation and feedback in changing behaviours of health facility workers and LGA health teams
• Design metrics to monitor and measure behaviour change of health care workers throughout the life of the project
• Coordinate activities at the local government and ward. Interface with all level actors to ascertain the status of activities with respect to the chronogram and timelines.
• Support the development of behaviour change training modules addressing accurate reporting, review and data use. Review training materials and support training at state and lower levels.
• Develop training modules and materials for the training of all categories of personnel involved in this project
• Provide oversight and supervision for behavioural component of project implementation in 3 states
• Work with the project managers, monitoring, evaluation and learning officer to ensure tracking of all project indicators and timely reporting of project activities
• Prepare reports / presentations to be shared with stakeholders, professional groups and for publication in professional journals.
• Perform other duties as assigned by the project lead

Required Qualification/ Experience

• A degree in Behavioral or Social Science; or related disciplines appropriate to the position
• Or a combination of education and experience that provided the applicant with knowledge of one or more of the behavioral or social sciences equivalent to a major in the field
• Or  four years of appropriate experience in behavioral or social sciences field that demonstrates that the applicant has acquired requisite
• A postgraduate degree in a behavioral or social science or public health
• Experience in developing and training in behavior change projects will be an advantage
• Two years’ specialized experience in implementing behavioral change projects with evidence of practical experience
• Two years’ experience in the conduct of research in the various aspects of behavioral, social and cultural influences in public health
• Two years’ experience working with Primary Health Care bodies/Systems
• Two years working experience with frontline healthcare workers and health systems at all levels – community, heath facility, LGA, state and national
• Experience in developing and implementing a learning agenda

Knowledge requirements/Skills:

• Language proficiency in English
• A good understanding the primary health care is a requirement
• Strong knowledge in conduct of qualitative study including qualitative data analysis
• Skills in Microsoft Office, and qualitative data analysis software
• Ability to communicate clearly in English language orally and in writing
• Ability to engage in successful interaction, extensive contact with members of government agencies and partners at national, state and local government levels

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