Research Assistant Job at University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) – COMS-A Secretariat, Kigali, Rwanda (Deadline: Ongoing)

Introduction

Across Africa, a quiet transformation is unfolding in the field of health education and research. Universities, governments, and global health organizations are working together to strengthen medical systems, improve public health outcomes, and prepare a new generation of leaders who can tackle complex health challenges.

At the center of this transformation is the University of Global Health Equity (UGHE) in Rwanda an institution known for advancing equitable healthcare education and producing professionals dedicated to improving health systems worldwide.

In 2025, a major continental initiative emerged from Kigali: the Consortium of Medical Schools–Africa (COMS-A). Bringing together more than 135 medical schools across 30+ African countries, COMS-A aims to strengthen collaboration, harmonize medical education standards, and expand research capacity across the continent.

To support this ambitious initiative, the COMS-A Secretariat is recruiting a Research Assistant for the Women in Leadership (WIL) and Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) Programs.

This position offers an exceptional opportunity for early-career researchers, public health professionals, and global health graduates who want to contribute to evidence-based policy, health research, and leadership development in African medical education.

For professionals passionate about research, gender equity in leadership, and maternal and child health outcomes, this role provides a meaningful pathway into continental-level health initiatives.

This guide explains everything prospective applicants need to know:

• What the role involves
• Who is eligible to apply
• Key responsibilities and benefits
• Step-by-step application instructions
• Required documents
• Timeline and verification resources

Whether you are a public health graduate, research professional, or global health enthusiast, understanding this opportunity could help you take an important step toward a career in international health research and policy development.

Overview of the Research Assistant Opportunity

The Research Assistant – WIL and MNCH Programs position sits within the COMS-A Secretariat hosted at the University of Global Health Equity in Kigali, Rwanda.

The role supports two major workstreams under the SHINE Initiative, a continental program designed to strengthen leadership and health outcomes in Africa.

Key Workstreams Supported by the Role

1. Women in Leadership (WIL) in African medical education
2. Maternal, Newborn and Child Health (MNCH) and Gender, Sexual and Reproductive Health (GSRH) research and training

These initiatives aim to address systemic challenges in health education, gender equity, and healthcare delivery across Africa.

Position Details

Position	Research Assistant – WIL & MNCH Programs
Organization	COMS-A Secretariat hosted by UGHE
Location	Kigali, Rwanda
Contract	Full-time
Duration	1 year (renewable depending on funding)
Reporting Line	Director, COMS-A
Work Type	Research, data analysis, program support

Core Purpose of the Role

The Research Assistant will support data collection, research coordination, literature reviews, and monitoring activities across COMS-A programs.

This includes:

• Supporting continental research studies
• Managing and analyzing research data
• Assisting with policy briefs and academic publications
• Coordinating research activities across multiple African institutions

In practice, this means the successful candidate will work at the intersection of:

• Public health research
• medical education policy
• gender equity initiatives
• continental collaboration networks

For early-career researchers, roles like this often become launchpads into international health organizations, doctoral programs, or policy institutions.

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet specific academic and professional criteria to be considered for this position.

The eligibility requirements focus on academic training, research skills, and professional competencies.

Educational Qualifications

Candidates must have:

• A Bachelor’s degree in one of the following fields:
• Public Health
• Global Health
• Education
• Social Sciences
• Epidemiology
• Health Policy
• Other related disciplines

While not mandatory, a Master’s degree is strongly preferred and may strengthen an applicant’s profile.

Graduate-level training in research methods or global health policy can be particularly valuable.

Research Skills

Applicants should demonstrate competence in both qualitative and quantitative research methods.

This may include experience with:

• Survey design
• Interviews or focus groups
• Data cleaning
• Basic statistical analysis
• Literature reviews
• Academic writing

Previous involvement in university research projects, health programs, or NGO research initiatives is often advantageous.

Technical Skills

The position requires familiarity with common research tools and software.

Preferred competencies include:

• Microsoft Excel (data management)
• Statistical software such as:
• STATA
• R
• SPSS
• Qualitative analysis software such as:
• NVivo
• Atlas.ti

While not mandatory, experience with these tools may help candidates perform more effectively in the role.

Professional Competencies

Strong candidates typically demonstrate:

• Excellent organizational skills
• Attention to detail
• Ability to manage multiple tasks
• Strong written communication skills
• Professional discretion when handling sensitive information

Because COMS-A operates across multiple African countries, collaboration skills are also essential.

Applicants must be able to work with multinational teams, academic institutions, and policy stakeholders.

Language Requirements

Applicants must demonstrate:

• Fluency in English

Additional languages are considered an advantage, particularly:

• French
• Portuguese

These languages are widely used across COMS-A member institutions.

Personal Values

Applicants should align with COMS-A’s institutional values:

• Excellence
• Equity
• Collaboration
• Integrity
• Sustainability
• Social accountability

These principles guide the organization's mission to strengthen ethical and inclusive medical education systems in Africa.

Benefits and Financial Value

Working with COMS-A and UGHE offers a variety of professional and developmental benefits.

While exact salary figures are not publicly disclosed, the position provides a competitive compensation package aligned with qualifications and experience.

Below are some of the key advantages associated with this role.

Competitive Salary

The position offers a salary package competitive within Rwanda’s international health and research sector.

Compensation may reflect:

• Academic background
• Research experience
• Technical competencies

Professional Development

One of the most valuable aspects of the role is the opportunity to build high-level research experience.

The Research Assistant will gain exposure to:

• Continental research initiatives
• Medical education policy development
• Global health research networks

Such experience can significantly strengthen future applications for:

• PhD programs
• global health fellowships
• international research careers

Networking Opportunities

COMS-A connects more than 135 medical schools across Africa.

Working within this network allows professionals to interact with:

• Researchers
• Public health experts
• medical school leadership
• international development organizations

These connections can be invaluable for long-term career growth.

Experience in Monitoring and Evaluation

Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) is an essential skill across global development and health sectors.

This role includes hands-on experience with:

• Data visualization
• Indicator tracking
• program evaluation frameworks

These competencies are highly valued by employers such as:

• international NGOs
• global health institutions
• research organizations

Exposure to Policy and Academic Publishing

The role also includes participation in:

• Policy briefs
• Technical reports
• Conference abstracts
• Academic manuscripts

This type of experience helps early-career professionals build publication credentials and research portfolios.

Working in Rwanda’s Global Health Ecosystem

Rwanda has become a recognized hub for health innovation and global health leadership training.

Professionals working in this ecosystem benefit from:

• exposure to high-impact health programs
• collaboration with international partners
• experience in policy-driven health systems transformation

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applicants must submit their applications through the official UGHE recruitment platform.

The process typically involves several steps designed to evaluate both academic qualifications and research competencies.

Step 1: Prepare Your Application Materials

Before starting the application, gather the required documents:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Cover Letter
• Academic Degree Certificates

Ensure your CV clearly highlights:

• Research experience
• Data analysis skills
• publications or research projects
• relevant internships

Step 2: Write a Strong Cover Letter

The cover letter is a crucial part of the application.

It should explain:

• Your interest in the COMS-A initiative
• Your research background
• How your skills align with the WIL and MNCH programs

Applicants should also demonstrate familiarity with continental health research priorities.

Step 3: Access the Online Application Portal

Applications must be submitted through the official University of Global Health Equity job portal.

On the portal:

1. Locate the Research Assistant position listing.
2. Complete the online application form.
3. Upload your documents under the “Additional Files” tab.

Step 4: Submit the Application

After reviewing your information for accuracy, submit the application.

Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.

Step 5: Shortlisting and Interviews

Shortlisted candidates may be invited to participate in:

• online interviews
• research assessments
• reference checks

These steps help evaluate technical knowledge and professional competencies.

Required Documents

Applicants must prepare and submit several documents to complete their application.

1. Curriculum Vitae (CV)

Your CV should include:

• Academic background
• Research projects
• Professional experience
• Technical skills
• Publications or reports (if available)

2. Cover Letter

The cover letter should:

• explain your motivation
• highlight relevant research skills
• demonstrate interest in global health education

3. Academic Degree Certificates

Applicants must provide proof of academic qualifications.

This may include:

• Bachelor’s degree certificate
• Master’s degree certificate (if applicable)

Additional documentation may be requested during the recruitment process.

Important Tips for a Successful Application

Many strong candidates compete for research positions in global health organizations.

The following strategies can help applicants strengthen their profiles.

Highlight Research Experience

Even small research experiences matter.

Examples include:

• thesis research
• university research assistantships
• internship projects
• program evaluation work

Demonstrate Data Skills

Employers value candidates who can work with real-world datasets.

Mention tools such as:

• Excel
• R
• STATA
• SPSS

Emphasize Global Health Interests

Discuss topics such as:

• health equity
• maternal health
• leadership development in healthcare

These themes align closely with the COMS-A mission.

Show Evidence of Collaboration

Because the role involves cross-institutional coordination, highlight experiences where you worked with:

• diverse teams
• international partners
• academic institutions

Proofread All Documents

Professional writing matters in research roles.

Ensure:

• clear language
• correct grammar
• well-structured arguments

Deadline and Application Timeline

The official vacancy announcement does not specify a fixed deadline in all postings.

However, positions like this typically follow a rolling review process.

Applicants are strongly encouraged to apply as early as possible.

A typical timeline may include:

Stage	Estimated Timeline
Application submission	Open until filled
Shortlisting	Several weeks after application
Interviews	Following shortlisting
Final selection	After interview stage

Because international candidates may require additional documentation, early application is recommended.

Official Verification and Source Links

Applicants should always confirm information through official channels before applying.

Primary sources include:

• University of Global Health Equity official careers portal
• COMS-A Secretariat communications
• UGHE institutional website

These platforms provide verified updates about:

• job announcements
• application procedures
• eligibility requirements

Always rely on official program websites for final confirmation.

Related Opportunities

Readers exploring this opportunity may also be interested in other global education and career resources.

Consider exploring these guides:

• Fully funded scholarships for international students
• Study abroad opportunities in global health
• HR Operations Lead Job at Kivu Choice Ltd
• RwandAir Development Engineer Job 2026
  
• Global Events Co-Op at EF Educational Tours (Hybrid, Boston, USA) – Paid $20/hr

These resources can help students and professionals build stronger profiles for international opportunities.

 

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What is the COMS-A initiative?

The Consortium of Medical Schools–Africa (COMS-A) is a network of more than 135 medical schools across Africa working together to strengthen medical education, research collaboration, and policy development.

2. Is the Research Assistant position open to international applicants?

The job description does not explicitly restrict nationality, but applicants must be able to work in Kigali, Rwanda, where the position is based.

3. What type of research experience is required?

Candidates should demonstrate experience with qualitative or quantitative research, including data collection, analysis, and literature reviews.

4. Is a Master’s degree required?

A Master’s degree is preferred but not mandatory. Applicants with strong research experience and a relevant bachelor’s degree may still be competitive.

5. What software skills are useful for this role?

Commonly used tools include:

• Excel
• STATA
• R
• SPSS
• NVivo

Familiarity with these tools may strengthen an application.

6. What is the duration of the contract?

The contract is initially one year, with the possibility of renewal depending on funding availability and performance.

7. What areas of research does the role support?

The role focuses on:

• Women in Leadership in medical education
• Maternal, Newborn and Child Health
• Gender, Sexual and Reproductive Health research

Conclusion

Opportunities like the Research Assistant role at the University of Global Health Equity’s COMS-A Secretariat represent more than just a job.

They provide a chance to contribute to continental initiatives that shape the future of health education and research in Africa.

By supporting programs focused on women’s leadership and maternal and child health, the successful candidate will help strengthen research capacity, inform policy, and improve health outcomes across multiple countries.

For early-career professionals interested in global health, academic research, and policy impact, this position offers meaningful experience within one of Africa’s most influential health education ecosystems.

Before submitting an application, candidates are encouraged to carefully review the official vacancy announcement and confirm details through the University of Global Health Equity’s official recruitment platform.

Staying informed through verified sources ensures applicants have the most accurate information when preparing their applications.

 

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