Background

Scope of work for Consultancy services to PHI-ICHSSA 4 Project on Research and Data Analysis

• The ICHSSA-4 project is a 5-year USAID-funded award that commenced in December 2019 and will run up until December 2024.
• The project is being implemented by a consortium of partners, with Pro-Health International (PHI) as the lead partner and Catholic Relief Services (CRS) as the sub in Adamawa, Bauchi Taraba, Sokoto, Zamfara, and Kebbi states.
• The ICHSSA 4 project aims to ensure that Orphans and Vulnerable Children (OVC) are cared for and protected by their households, communities, and local and state governments to reduce their vulnerability to HIV.
• As part of our project objectives, we are seeking a highly skilled and experienced researcher to join our team as a consultant.
• The consultant will be responsible for conducting implementation research and program evaluation to generate valuable insights, evidence, information, and recommendations for the project’s development implementation and impact.

Objective

• The primary objective of this engagement is to undertake implementation/translational science research to support evidence-based decision-making and enhance the effectiveness of the PHI-ICHSSA-4 Project.
• The consultant will contribute to the project’s overall goal of improving service delivery among OVC and their caregivers’ services in the implementing states by providing actionable recommendations based on research findings.

Scope of Work

The consultant’s responsibilities will include, but not be limited to:

• Reviewing Project Documentation: Familiarize yourself with the project’s background, goals, and objectives by reviewing relevant project documentation, including the project proposal, work plans, and monitoring reports.
• Research Design and Planning: Develop a comprehensive research plan, including the identification of research questions, methodologies, data collection tools, and analysis techniques. This plan should align with the project’s objectives and contribute to the identification of best practices and strategies for healthcare service improvement.
• Data Collection and Analysis: Collect data through appropriate methods, such as surveys, interviews, focus group discussions (FGD), or literature reviews. Analyze the collected data using robust analytical tools and techniques. Ensure data quality, accuracy, and validity throughout the research process.
• Reporting and Recommendations: Prepare a detailed research report outlining the research findings, analysis, and recommendations for improving the operational aspects of the PHI-ICHSSA-4 Project. Provide clear and actionable recommendations based on the research findings that align with the project’s objectives.
• Presentation and Dissemination: Present the research findings and recommendations to the project team, stakeholders, and relevant partners. Facilitate discussions and engage in knowledge-sharing activities to ensure the effective dissemination of research outcomes. Ensure the presentation of at least 2 manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals every quarter. Develops and submit abstracts for international research conferences such as IAS and CROI

Deliverables

The consultant is expected to deliver the following:

• Research Plan: A detailed research plan, including methodologies, data collection tools, and analysis techniques, within two weeks of consultancy commencement.
• Research Report: A comprehensive research report that includes research findings, analysis, and recommendations. The report should be submitted no later than two weeks after the completion and documentation of the research work.
• Presentation: A professional presentation summarizing the research findings, analysis, and recommendations, to be delivered to the project team and stakeholders.
• Timeline: The consultancy will be for a period of three months, starting on [start date] and ending on [end date]. The consultant will be required to work full-time during this period, dedicating a minimum of [hours/days] per week to research work.

Qualifications and Requirements

The ideal candidate for this research consultant role should possess the following qualifications and experience:

• An Advanced Degree in Medicine, Public Health, Epidemiology, or other relevant fields (Health, or Social Sciences).
• Proven experience in designing and conducting implementation science/translational science research studies in the healthcare and social welfare sectors.
• Experience developing abstracts for international conferences such as CROI, IAS, and ICASA with previously accepted abstracts for these conferences is preferred.
• Strong analytical skills and proficiency in qualitative and quantitative research methods. Experience in the use of Excel and inferential statistical tools such as Stata, R, Power BI, Python, and SPSS is desirable
• Excellent report writing and communication skills, with the ability to present complex information in a clear and concise manner.
• Knowledge of the local context and healthcare and social welfare systems in the target states (see background) is an advantage.
• Previous experience (not less than 5 years) working on similar projects/research or with international development organizations is preferred, with previous experience in program implementation, monitoring, and evaluation.

Contractual Arrangements:

• The consultant will be engaged as a contractor for the duration of the project. The terms and conditions of the contract, including the remuneration, will be negotiated and agreed upon between the consultant and the ICHSSA-4 focal person.