Data Systems and Health Informatics Officer job at Makerere University School of Public Health

Job Title: Data Systems and  Health Informatics Officer

Reports To: Lead Statistician

Location: Kampala, Uganda

Job Summary:   The Data Systems and Health Informatics officer will play a pivotal role in the successful implementation of the Uganda Population-based HIV Impact Assessment (UPHIA 2024-2025). The incumbent will oversee all aspects of data management, systems development, and IT infrastructure support. The ideal candidate will possess hands-on experience and skills in the areas they manage, with an extensive understanding of specific technologies and systems such as SQL scripting, continuous integration/continuous delivery (CI/CD) pipelines, and the UPHIA study data system, which includes applications for real-time data monitoring, household monitoring, field team management, laboratory sample tracking, quality and proficiency testing, real-time dashboarding, and linkage-to-care tracking.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

Data Systems

• Manage the data systems team responsible for developing and maintaining the Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) software using CSPro and other components of the study data system.
• Ensure the proper design, implementation, and maintenance of databases and data management systems, including systems for real-time data monitoring, household monitoring, field team management, and more.
• Monitor the data systems to ensure they meet the needs of the UPHIA study, implementing updates and improvements as necessary.

IT Infrastructure Support

• Lead the configuration of servers and always ensure their functionality.
• Oversee IT support functions, ensuring the optimal operation and security of servers, both on-premises and cloud, mobile devices, and other IT tools.
• Establish and maintain processes for effective IT crisis management, including development and implementation of Disaster Recovery and Business Continuity Plans.
• Develop and implement strategies for managing the hundreds of mobile devices used by the field teams, utilizing Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions.
• Conduct regular Information Security training sessions for the IT and Infrastructure Support team to ensure adherence to best security practices and protocols.

Data Management

• Implement and oversee rigorous data quality assurance and quality control processes.
• Develop and manage data protocols to ensure the privacy and security of research participants.
• Oversee mapping and listing processes, ensuring effective geographic data management and the production of key control data files, such as Enumeration Area (EA) and household selections and locations.

Additional Responsibilities:

• Provide consistent updates to stakeholders regarding all aspects of data and IT operations.
• Manage cross-functional teams and foster a collaborative and innovative work environment.
• Conduct training sessions for data management and data systems personnel, providing support and knowledge enhancement opportunities.

Qualifications, Skills and Experience:

Qualifications:

• Bachelor, Master’s degree or PhD in Computer Science,  Information Systems, Data Science or a related field.
• Minimum of 5 years of experience in data engineering, data management, or a related field, preferably in public health or social science research.
• Proven experience in managing large and complex databases, with expertise in using data management software such as SAS, Stata, R, Python, SQL, and CSPro.

Requirements:

• Understand key survey metrics, such as response rates, and utilize this information to drive study procedures and goals.
• Extensive experience with mapping and listing procedures, including geographic data management and the production of key control data files.
• Experience with a suite of tools and applications for managing and monitoring field data collection activities, including systems for real-time data monitoring, household monitoring, field team management, laboratory sample tracking, quality and proficiency testing, real-time dashboarding, and linkage-to-care tracking.
• Experience in managing IT support services and a deep understanding of IT infrastructure, including on-premises and cloud computing, servers, network systems, and Mobile Device Management (MDM) solutions.
• Demonstrated experience in crisis management and communication.
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation, with the ability to transform data into actionable insights.
• Strong leadership and team management skills, with the ability to supervise and guide team members effectively.
• Excellent communication skills, with the ability to convey complex technical information to a non-technical audience.
• Proficiency in English, both written and spoken. Knowledge of local languages would be an asset.
• Willingness and ability to travel domestically and internationally as needed.
• Ability to work in a fast-paced and challenging environment.
• Commitment to the highest ethical standards.
• Knowledge of and experience with HIV/AIDS-related studies.

How to Apply:

Interested persons should submit their signed application letter, updated curriculum vitae and academic documents stating at least two referees as ONE PDF DOCUMENT to recruitment@musph.ac.ug The application should be addressed to the Dean, School of Public Health, Makerere University and the position applied for should be the email reference. Please provide a reliable 24-hour phone contact.

Deadline: 23d August 2024 by 5:00pm

NB: Only short-listed candidates will be contacted for interviews.