Organization: Zen Jem Limited
Project: Maternal Mortality Research (MMR) Project
Study: Pregnancy Cohort Method (PCM) Study
Job Title: Verbal Autopsy Specialist
Location: Kano State, Nigeria
Required Experience: Minimum of 3 years
Minimum Qualification: Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline
Application Deadline: Not specified
Application Fee: Not specified
About Zen Jem Limited
Zen Jem Limited is a Nigerian professional services company specialising in survey data collection, data quality assurance, and field workforce management. The company supports research projects through field operations, data collection, quality assurance, and workforce supervision.
For the Maternal Mortality Research (MMR) Project in Kano State, Zen Jem Limited is seeking a qualified Verbal Autopsy Specialist to support the collection of reliable maternal and neonatal mortality data.
Job Summary
The Verbal Autopsy Specialist will conduct standardised verbal autopsy interviews with families following maternal and neonatal deaths. The role involves collecting high-quality mortality data while engaging bereaved families with empathy, professionalism, and cultural sensitivity.
The successful candidate will ensure compliance with research protocols, maintain participant confidentiality, and contribute to the accuracy and quality of mortality data collected throughout the project.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct standardised verbal autopsy interviews in accordance with approved study protocols.
- Engage bereaved families with empathy, professionalism, and cultural sensitivity.
- Ensure the accuracy, completeness, and quality of verbal autopsy data.
- Maintain confidentiality and adhere to research ethics throughout the interview process.
- Complete all required documentation accurately and within stipulated timelines.
- Coordinate with field teams and project supervisors to support effective implementation.
- Identify and report operational or ethical concerns encountered during field activities.
- Participate in project training, quality assurance exercises, and review meetings.
- Provide appropriate emotional support during interviews while maintaining professional boundaries.
Educational Qualifications and Experience
Interested applicants must meet the following requirements:
- A minimum of a bachelor’s degree in Public Health, Nursing, Medicine, Community Health, Psychology, or another relevant discipline.
- Certification or formal training in World Health Organization (WHO) Verbal Autopsy methodology is required.
- At least three (3) years of experience conducting verbal autopsy interviews, mortality surveillance, or similar public health research activities.
Required Skills and Competencies
Candidates should demonstrate the following competencies:
- Excellent interviewing and active listening skills.
- Fluency in Hausa and a good command of English.
- Demonstrated empathy, professionalism, and cultural sensitivity.
- Strong understanding of research ethics and confidentiality.
- Knowledge of maternal, newborn, and child health programmes.
- Strong attention to detail and commitment to data quality.
- Ability to work effectively in emotionally sensitive situations.
- Willingness to travel across Kano State.
Job Location
Kano State, Nigeria. The role requires field travel to conduct interviews and coordinate with relevant project teams.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates should apply below USING APPLY ONLINE NOW BUTTON
Applicants should provide accurate information about their qualifications, relevant experience, and training in verbal autopsy methodology.
Application Deadline: Not specified in the vacancy information provided. Applicants should check the application form or official recruitment announcement for any deadline.
Important Notice
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
- Certification or formal training in WHO Verbal Autopsy methodology is a stated requirement for this position.
- Applicants should ensure that they meet the educational and experience requirements before applying.