Cohort Research and Strategy Coordinator

Field of Research and Cohort

Breastfeeding is one of the most impactful, cost-effective ways to save and improve the lives of children everywhere, providing lifelong health benefits for infants and their mothers.

Breastmilk and breastfeeding are not only the foundation of a child’s healthy development, but they are also the basis of a country’s development – ending preventable child deaths, improving educational achievements, and boosting productivity.

The Global Human Milk Research Consortium (GHMRC), www.ghmrc.org, consists of five independent research centers, based at renowned universities, and endowed by the Family Larsson-Rosenquist Foundation. Each center’s research vision highlights important components of health and development that contribute to reaching the UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) – immunology, neurodevelopment, endocrinology of lactation, microbiome and human oligosaccharides, and behavioral economics.

Cohort rationale

Small and vulnerable newborns (SVNs) are at the highest risk of early mortality, developmental delays, and long-term health challenges. In sub-Saharan Africa, these infants often experience limited access to life-saving neonatal care and suboptimal breastfeeding support, despite overwhelming evidence that breastfeeding and breastmilk are central to improving survival and long-term outcomes.

A multi-site cohort led by five research centers, each contributing specialized expertise, will form a comprehensive platform to investigate how breastfeeding and breastmilk act as a powerful intervention for SVNs. This will enable the development of targeted, evidence-based strategies to improve outcomes.

Training

Master’s or PhD in Public Health, Epidemiology, Biomedical Sciences, or a related field.

Skills

• Strong qualitative and quantitative research skills
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills to engage with diverse stakeholders
• Familiarity with ethical considerations and guidelines in cohort research
• Strong analytical and problem-solving abilities
• High proficiency in spoken and written English
• Ability to write clear and comprehensive reports and funding proposals
• Aligned with the Foundation’s vision and goals

Primary tasks

• Work with the GHMRC chairs to produce a plan for developing a birth cohort to study the effects of breastmilk on Small Vulnerable Newborns in the first 1,000 days of life, specifically in sub-Saharan Africa
• Conduct qualitative and quantitative research to identify key needs and research questions related to setting up the cohort
• Engage with local stakeholders, healthcare professionals, and community leaders to gather insights and build relationships
• Assess feasibility of setting up the cohort in various settings, considering resources, infrastructure, and potential challenges
• Identify ethical, cultural, and logistical considerations specific to sub-Saharan Africa
• Map out potential data sources and existing cohort initiatives to avoid duplication
• Propose innovative, context-sensitive data collection tools and approaches
• Draft a comprehensive plan for cohort setup, including timelines, budget estimates, and resource allocation
• Prepare clear and concise reports, presentations, and proposals communicating findings and planning outcomes
• Develop documentation for funding applications and partnership proposals

Additional

• Proficiency in any data analysis software and tools
• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals
• Strong organizational skills and attention to detail
• Ability to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team

Experience

• Ideally proven experience (2+ years) in cohort design, field research, or epidemiological studies, preferably in LMICs
• Experience conducting needs assessments and community engagement, preferably in LMICs
• Demonstrated project planning and coordination experience

Application: Please apply by email including your CV and covering letter via the 'Apply' button

By submitting your application, you consent to your CV being shared with the Chairs of the LRF Centers.

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