Research Volunteers

Research Volunteers Role Description

We are seeking dependable Research Volunteers to work on research. Africa Health Organisation (AHO) understands social determinants of health and needs to understand their roles in communities in Africa, the UK, the US and the Diaspora. The research would include analysing communities and dividing them into sub-ethnic groups to understand which groups are affected, under-represented or over-represented in health and socio-economic in these countries. The Researcher's duties include aligning methodologies with research goals, using a range of tools to acquire information and interpret data, writing up reports and presenting findings and schedules to the board, management and other stakeholders, identifying trends and patterns in Africa, the UK, the US, conducting fieldwork and tests when required, as well as protecting databases and confidential information. You should be able to deliver presentations and communicate effectively at all levels.

To be successful as a Research Volunteer, you should be resourceful and demonstrate excellent time management and patience. Outstanding Researchers are passionate about their subject matter and can meet strict deadlines. You can research the economy, country, region, county, district, city, unitary authority, borough, parish, constituency, or ward.

Research topic ideas

Volunteers will be welcome to come up with the research topics that matter to them.

Duties and Responsibilities:

• Research the composition and involvement of communities in the country's activities and services by ethnicity, gender, age, party, constituency, socioeconomic status, and other characteristics.
• Interpreting research specifications and developing a work plan that satisfies requirements.
• Conducting desktop research and using books, journal articles, newspaper sources, questionnaires, surveys, polls, and interviews to gather data.
• Analysing and interpreting patterns and trends in people in Africa, the UK, the US and the Diaspora.
• Recording findings by taking written notes and using appropriate software.
• Maintaining and protecting electronic databases.
• Anticipating research issues and promptly resolving them.
• Following a strict code of ethics and protecting confidential information at all times.
• Writing proposals and delivering presentations when required.

Education, Skills and Experience Requirements:

• A bachelor's degree or preferably a master's or doctorate qualification in research on the chosen research topic or something similar.
• Understanding of Africa, the UK, the US and the Diaspora political and socioeconomic systems.
• Proven 3 years of experience in the research field.
• Sound knowledge of research methodologies.
• Proficiency in MS Office and research software.
• Strong statistical and mathematical aptitude.
• Strong problem-solving skills.
• Practical experience in database management.
• Attention to detail and exceptional written, verbal, and telephonic communication skills.

Funding and Finance

The role will involve seeking and securing funding and finance for the specific goals, objectives, targets, and outcomes. You will work with AHO President, the Board and senior management to research and identify public, private, philanthropic, individual giving and legacy funding and finance. Each volunteer will have the opportunity to choose their goal and set a fundraising target to achieve. If the volunteer successfully meets their goal, they will be offered a fully paid job to head the delivery of their chosen goal supported by a qualified senior manager.

This role is open to anyone studying for a Master's, PhD or equivalent worldwide at an approved research institute, think tank, charity, NGO, or university.

Languages requirements

The ability to speak one of Africa's widely spoken languages would be an added advantage e.g. Afrikaans, Amharic, Arabic, Bemba, Berber, Chewa, Chinese, Dinka, English, French, Fula, Fulani, German, Greek, Hausa, Hindi, Igbo, Italian, Japanese, Kinyarwanda, Kirundi, Kongo, Korean, Lingala, Malagasy, Mandinka, Nambia, Ndebele, Nyanja, Oromo, Portuguese, Russian, Sango, Sesotho, Shona, Somali, Spanish, Swahili, Swati, Thai, Tigrinya, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Vietnamese, Xhosa, Yoruba, Zulu, etc. You are still welcome to apply if you don't speak any of the above languages.

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We do not promise a job offer to volunteers, trainees, interns, or apprentices; however, those who perform above par, winning grants and tenders during their time with us, may be offered a job if their grant or tender creates one. We also sponsor successful trainees to come and live and work in the UK.

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How to Apply

Please submit your CV and a Cover letter via Idealist explaining your motivation.