Research Scientist, Focus: Economic Evaluation in Rwanda Full Career Guide to the Partners In Health Global Health Research Role

Introduction

For early-career researchers interested in global health systems, economic evaluation, and field-based impact research, opportunities that combine real-world implementation with rigorous scientific analysis are rare. One such opportunity currently attracting attention among public health researchers and international graduates is the Research Scientist – Economic Evaluation position in Rwanda with Partners In Health (PIH).

This role is particularly relevant for professionals with backgrounds in health economics, global health research, statistics, or public health policy who want to contribute to improving healthcare delivery in vulnerable communities. Unlike purely academic research roles, this position offers hands-on field experience within an active randomized controlled trial (RCT) while working alongside a globally respected organization that has shaped international health policy for decades.

Across the world, health systems increasingly rely on economic evidence to guide policy decisions. Governments, NGOs, and international donors want to know not only whether health interventions work, but also whether they are cost-effective and scalable. That is where experts in economic evaluation become indispensable.

The Research Scientist role in Kirehe District, Rwanda, focuses on evaluating the costs and cost-effectiveness of a digital Community Health Worker (CHW) intervention, part of a rigorous research program designed to strengthen community-based healthcare delivery.

For international students, early-career researchers, and professionals seeking careers in global health research, development economics, and health policy, this position represents more than a job posting. It offers exposure to:

· Field-based data collection

· Health economics modeling

· Research implementation in rural health systems

· Multidisciplinary global health collaboration

· Evidence generation for public policy

This detailed guide explains everything prospective applicants should know, including eligibility criteria, responsibilities, application steps, required documents, and expert tips to improve their chances of selection.

Overview of the Research Scientist Opportunity

The Research Scientist – Economic Evaluation role is part of the Research Department of Partners In Health / Inshuti Mu Buzima (PIH/IMB) in Rwanda.

Partners In Health is internationally recognized for pioneering community-based healthcare models that integrate modern medical science with social justice principles. Founded by physician and global health leader Dr. Paul Farmer, the organization has expanded its work across multiple continents and collaborates with top academic institutions worldwide.

Today, PIH operates in 11 countries, supporting national health systems while generating scientific evidence that influences global health policy.

Countries Where PIH Operates

· Haiti

· Kazakhstan

· Lesotho

· Liberia

· Malawi

· Mexico

· Navajo Nation (United States)

· Peru

· Rwanda

· Sierra Leone

· United States

Through these programs, PIH supports millions of patients via public health facilities, community health worker networks, and integrated research programs.

The Rwanda program, Inshuti Mu Buzima, is among the most advanced examples of a community-integrated health system model.

Position Details

Category	Information
Job Title	Research Scientist – Economic Evaluation
Department	Research
Location	Kirehe District, Rwanda
Employment Duration	9–12 months
Reporting To	Director of Research and Training
Team Supervision	Data Collectors (as assigned)
Research Focus	Costing and cost-effectiveness analysis of a digital CHW intervention
Number of Positions	1

The position is structured as a field-based research role, meaning the successful candidate will spend significant time working in health facilities, communities, and district-level research environments.

This immersive approach ensures that the economic analysis is grounded in real operational data rather than theoretical models alone.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants interested in the Research Scientist role must meet a combination of academic qualifications, technical competencies, and professional attributes that align with the requirements of rigorous health systems research.

Below are the key eligibility requirements.

1. Educational Background

Candidates must hold a Master’s degree or be in the final year of a Master’s program in a relevant discipline.

Accepted academic fields include:

· Public Health

· Health Economics

· Economics

· Statistics

· Global Health

· Epidemiology

· Health Policy

· Development Studies

· Biostatistics

Graduate-level training ensures that applicants possess the analytical and methodological foundations required for economic evaluation research.

2. Training in Economic Evaluation or Health Financing

Applicants must demonstrate formal training or coursework in economic evaluation, costing methodologies, or health financing systems.

Relevant training areas include:

· Cost-effectiveness analysis

· Health technology assessment

· Budget impact analysis

· Program costing

· Health financing policy

· Resource allocation in healthcare

This knowledge enables researchers to interpret cost data within the broader context of health system decision-making.

3. Quantitative Analysis Skills

The role requires strong analytical capacity. Candidates should be comfortable working with large datasets and statistical tools.

Preferred technical skills include:

· Data analysis using Stata

· Advanced use of Microsoft Excel

· Data cleaning and quality assurance

· Descriptive statistical analysis

· Cost modeling techniques

Familiarity with reproducible research workflows and structured data management is also highly valued.

4. Field Research Experience

Although the role is open to early-career researchers, some prior exposure to field-based research environments is beneficial.

Examples of relevant experience include:

· Research internships

· Public health surveys

· Community data collection

· Program monitoring and evaluation

· Health system implementation studies

Experience in low-resource or rural health settings is particularly valuable.

5. Language Proficiency

Communication is essential in field research.

Required language skills include:

· Fluency in English (required for research documentation and reporting)

· Kinyarwanda proficiency strongly preferred for field coordination and community engagement

Language ability ensures smooth interaction with health facility staff, community health workers, and district health teams.

6. Personal and Professional Attributes

Successful applicants are expected to demonstrate:

· Strong organizational skills

· High attention to detail

· Ability to work in rural environments

· Team collaboration abilities

· Commitment to global health equity

Applicants should also demonstrate genuine interest in research that strengthens healthcare systems in underserved communities.

Benefits and Financial Value

Although the Research Scientist role is primarily structured as a professional research opportunity, it offers substantial career and professional development benefits.

Many global health professionals consider field-based research experience with organizations like PIH to be a critical stepping stone toward international research careers.

1. Hands-On Research Experience

Participants gain direct experience in:

· Costing methodology

· Economic evaluation frameworks

· Randomized controlled trial implementation

· Health system research in rural settings

This exposure is invaluable for professionals pursuing careers in health policy analysis or global development research.

2. Collaboration with Global Health Experts

PIH works closely with leading universities and global health institutions.

Researchers may collaborate with partners from institutions such as:

· Harvard University

· Brigham and Women’s Hospital

· Global health research consortia

· International policy organizations

These collaborations often contribute to high-impact academic publications and policy reports.

3. Scientific Publication Opportunities

Research scientists may contribute to:

· Academic journal articles

· Conference presentations

· Policy briefs

· Health systems research reports

Participation in publication projects strengthens academic and professional credentials.

4. Exposure to Health System Innovation

The RCT being evaluated focuses on digital community health worker interventions, a rapidly growing field in global health.

Researchers gain insight into:

· Digital health technologies

· Community health program design

· Cost-effective healthcare delivery models

These skills are increasingly relevant in international development and public health sectors.

5. Professional Networking

Working within the PIH research ecosystem provides opportunities to connect with:

· Global health researchers

· Government health officials

· Implementation scientists

· International NGO leaders

Networking often leads to future fellowships, doctoral opportunities, and global research positions.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for a competitive research position requires careful preparation and attention to detail. The application process typically follows several stages.

Step 1: Review the Full Job Description

Candidates should carefully read the official job announcement and understand:

· Role responsibilities

· Required qualifications

· Fieldwork expectations

· Research objectives

Understanding the scope of the project helps applicants tailor their applications effectively.

Step 2: Prepare Your Curriculum Vitae

Your CV should highlight:

· Academic qualifications

· Research experience

· Statistical or analytical skills

· Publications or academic projects

· Field research involvement

Focus particularly on economic evaluation or health systems research experience.

Step 3: Draft a Strong Cover Letter

The cover letter should explain:

· Why you are interested in global health research

· Your experience with economic evaluation or data analysis

· How your background aligns with the study objectives

· Your motivation to work in field-based research settings

Applicants should demonstrate both technical competence and commitment to health equity.

Step 4: Submit the Application Online

Applications are usually submitted through the Partners In Health careers portal or official recruitment platform.

Ensure that:

· All documents are complete

· File formats meet the submission guidelines

· Contact information is correct

Incomplete applications may not be reviewed.

Step 5: Participate in Interviews

Shortlisted candidates may be invited for interviews focusing on:

· Research methodology knowledge

· Data analysis skills

· Fieldwork experience

· Team collaboration abilities

Interview panels often include research leaders and program managers.

Step 6: Final Selection and Onboarding

Successful applicants may undergo:

· Reference checks

· Verification of academic credentials

· Safeguarding and compliance screening

Once approved, candidates receive onboarding instructions and orientation.

Required Documents

Applicants should prepare the following documents before submitting their applications.

Essential Application Materials

1. Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)

2. Cover Letter

3. Academic transcripts

4. Copies of academic degrees

5. Reference contacts

Optional Supporting Documents

Some applicants may also include:

· Research publications

· Writing samples

· Data analysis projects

· Letters of recommendation

These documents help demonstrate research competence and analytical ability.

Important Tips for a Successful Application

Competition for global health research roles can be intense. The following strategies may improve your chances of success.

Highlight Relevant Research Experience

Even small research projects can strengthen your application.

Examples include:

· Master's thesis research

· Field surveys

· Health economics coursework projects

Explain your specific role and contributions.

Demonstrate Analytical Skills

If you have experience using Stata or Excel for statistical analysis, clearly mention:

· Types of analyses performed

· Data management tasks

· Modeling techniques used

Practical analytical experience is highly valued.

Show Commitment to Global Health Equity

Organizations like PIH prioritize applicants who demonstrate genuine commitment to social justice and equitable healthcare access.

Discuss experiences such as:

· Community health projects

· Volunteer work

· Public health initiatives

These experiences reflect alignment with the organization’s mission.

Emphasize Fieldwork Adaptability

Working in rural research settings requires flexibility and resilience.

Mention examples of:

· Field research participation

· Rural program implementation

· Community engagement work

This signals readiness for hands-on research environments.

Deadline and Application Timeline

The official application timeline may vary depending on recruitment needs.

However, applicants should generally expect the following process:

Stage	Typical Timeline
Job Announcement	Published online
Application Period	Several weeks
Shortlisting	2–3 weeks
Interviews	Within one month
Final Selection	After interviews
Contract Duration	9–12 months

Applicants are encouraged to apply as early as possible to avoid missing the opportunity.

Official Verification and Source Links

Prospective applicants should always verify job postings through official sources.

The most reliable platforms include:

· Partners In Health official careers website

· PIH Rwanda recruitment channels

· Verified professional job boards

Applicants should avoid submitting personal information to unverified or unofficial platforms.

Related Opportunities

Readers interested in global research careers may also explore these related resources:

· Fullyfunded scholarships for public health students

· Global health fellowships for early-career researchers

· Research Assistant Job at University of Global Health Equity (UGHE)

· Accountant at Rwanda Biomedical Center (RBC)

· 2026 Tällberg-SNF-Eliasson Global Leadership Prize

These resources help candidates prepare for long-term careers in international health research and policy.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does a Research Scientist in Economic Evaluation do?

A research scientist specializing in economic evaluation analyzes the costs and financial impacts of health interventions. Their work helps determine whether healthcare programs are financially sustainable and cost-effective.

Is this role suitable for international applicants?

Yes. The role focuses on global health research, and individuals with relevant academic backgrounds may be eligible if they meet the required qualifications and legal employment requirements.

Do I need experience in Stata to apply?

While not always mandatory, familiarity with Stata or advanced Excel analysis is strongly preferred because these tools are commonly used in health economics research.

Is fieldwork required for this position?

Yes. The role is field-based in Kirehe District, meaning researchers will work directly with health facilities and community health workers.

Can this role lead to academic publications?

Yes. Researchers may contribute to manuscripts, reports, and conference presentations based on study findings.

What career paths can follow this role?

Experience in this position can lead to careers in:

· Global health research

· Health policy analysis

· Development economics

· PhD programs in public health or economics

Conclusion

Global health research plays a critical role in shaping policies that improve healthcare access for vulnerable populations. Positions like the Research Scientist – Economic Evaluation role with Partners In Health in Rwanda demonstrate how rigorous research can inform better decision-making and strengthen national health systems.

For early-career researchers passionate about health economics, implementation science, and community-based healthcare, this opportunity offers a rare chance to combine field experience with scientific analysis.

Working within a randomized controlled trial environment, researchers gain exposure to cutting-edge health system innovations while contributing to evidence that influences real policy decisions.

Applicants interested in this role should begin preparing their research-focused CVs, analytical portfolios, and strong motivation letters as early as possible.

Careers in global health research require dedication, curiosity, and commitment to improving healthcare equity. Opportunities like this one can serve as an important step toward becoming a leading expert in international health policy and research.

Verification Note:
Always confirm job details, eligibility requirements, and application deadlines through the official Partners In Health recruitment platform before submitting your application. Opportunity information can change, and the official source remains the most reliable reference.

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Research Scientist Job, Focus: Economic Evaluation in Rwanda Full Career Guide to the Partners In Health Global Health Research Role