1012- Nepal- RISE: Rapid Diagnostic Test (RDT) Implementation Strategy and Evaluation Project

The overall goal of the RISE project is to evaluate the use of rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) for cholera in Nepal. The Nepali government is expected to receive a shipment of cholera rapid diagnostic tests (RDTs) through the Gavi-approved Diagnostics Initiative in early 2024. The hope is that by strengthening cholera surveillance through widespread distribution of cholera RDTs, it could aid in targeting and decision-making around cholera vaccine campaigns in Gavi-eligible countries, like Nepal. The RDT Implementation Strategy and Evaluation (RISE) Project is the pilot study for this new diagnostic procurement platform. The study is being funded by Gavi and led by Johns Hopkins University in collaboration with the Group for Technical Assistance (GTA) Foundation in Kathmandu, Nepal. The RISE project began in February 2023 and is expected to continue through December 2024.

Beginning in 2024, we will carry out an implementation strength assessment to determine whether health systems and providers have the capacity to deliver quality cholera RDT implementation services (i.e., availability of supplies/equipment, supervision, training, communication activities, and service accessibility). We will also conduct clinical and laboratory vignettes to understand whether physicians and laboratory technicians correctly apply cholera RDTs. The aim of the evaluation is to understand how cholera RDTs are used within the national healthcare system in Nepal, characterize the impact of training and preparedness on RDT use, and identify recommendations for improving their usage.

The student would be responsible for managing day to day activities in Kathmandu and ensuring the study is carried out according to the study protocol and milestones. The student would be responsible for troubleshooting issues that arise related to field activities, conducting health facility visits, and assisting the data manager with data quality checks and data cleaning. Tasks may include but are not limited to the following:

• Assist in analyzing and summarizing previously-collected formative research data, including qualitative interviews and quantitative surveys
• Support development of questionnaires, vignettes, and other evaluation tools
• Support development of a cholera RDT training package
• Collaborate in planning and implementing a training of national and provincial level stakeholders on cholera RDT implementation
• Assist in training field staff and overseeing daily field activities
• Accompany field staff on health facility visits to support and oversee data collection
• Assist field staff in conducting surveys and liaising with health facility staff to obtain data
• Carry out routine data cleaning and work closely with the data manager to build local data management capacity
• Compile updates for weekly reports on visits and activities completed.
• Participate in weekly meetings with the local and JHU team
• Conduct preliminary statistical analyses with data from the implementation strength assessment, vignettes, and facility surveys
• Contribute to reports and manuscripts on study findings

The Nepal site has a collaborative and respectful culture, characterized by diligent work ethic and a strong emphasis on teamwork. They embrace open-mindedness and exhibit a genuine interest in both learning from others and sharing their experiences to educate peers. The team fosters a supportive and inclusive environment. Additionally, the student will receive support from a well-established research infrastructure in Kathmandu, where numerous ongoing projects are in progress. This setting will enable the student to establish a community with fellow students and researchers participating in various projects in Kathmandu. The student will also be supported by a team of researchers and students, including Dr. Amanda Debes and Dr. David Sack, who will provide additional mentorship and guidance.

This role is well-suited for an individual passionate about implementation science, providing an exceptional opportunity to acquire skills in assessing the effectiveness of a governmental program at the national level and actively contributing to its enhancement. The ideal candidate should possess a self-driven and proactive work approach, coupled with a collaborative mindset. We are seeking someone enthusiastic about gaining practical research experience in an LMIC setting and working alongside a supportive team of local staff who are open-minded and eager to exchange knowledge and experiences.

Name: Kendra Williams, Department of International Health, kendra.williams@jhu.edu

I would describe my communication and mentorship styles as... 

I believe in open communication and ensuring my mentees feel comfortable sharing experiences, asking questions, and seeking guidance. I strive to help students set appropriate goals and provide constructive feedback to help them achieve those goals. I always make myself accessible through regular meetings, email, or phone communications. I ensure mentees can be independent while providing appropriate encouragement, motivation, and support. The student will also be working closely with a team of other researchers and students who will also provide additional mentorship and guidance.

A complementary student would have a working style and mentorship expectations that are..

The ideal student would have a proactive and independent working style. They should be self-motivated and willing to take initiative, while ensuring responsiveness and regular communication with their mentor and other team members.

It is expected that all living costs will be covered by the GHEFP stipend as well as an additional stipend that will be provided to the student by the project.

An additional stipend will be given for costs of airfare and housing.