The Carter Center: Term-limited Consultancy; Investigation data coding and extraction

In order to generate analyzable investigation-related datasets, The Carter Center’s Guinea Worm Eradication Program (GWEP) is recruiting two consultants to code and extract data from narrative field investigation reports. The resulting datasets will allow the GWEP to use epidemiological data in a more efficient, effective, and systematic way to clarify GW transmission dynamics and inform evidence-based programmatic and policy decisions.

National GWEPs in endemic countries collect an array of epidemiological data through various mechanisms. These data include those captured by program surveillance systems and through other avenues such as field investigation reports. Program surveillance data include information about where a Guinea worm disease (GWD) case or infection was detected, when, and amongst which definitive hosts. These data are already housed in analyzable datasets, and they are well suited to: 1) examine the distribution of GWD over space and time; 2) estimate the magnitude and burden of disease; and 3) reveal the natural history of disease. Program investigation data, on the other hand, include information about where and how a human or animal infected with Guinea worm (GW) might have been infected, and which common exposure opportunities and sources of infection one host may share with other hosts. Historically, these rich investigation-related epidemiological data have only been housed in textual format in narrative investigation reports, which does not render the data readily available for analyses. That said, when they are in an analyzable format, investigation-related epidemiological data are well suited to: 1) provide additional information about the specific behaviors, practices, and environmental factors that are perpetuating human and animal infections as a result of exposure to these sources, which may help focus enhanced behavioral interventions; 2) identify epidemiological links amongst and between human cases and infected animals, and across locations and time, which may help identify transmission foci so GWEPs can take action to interrupt transmission in these locations; and 3) elucidate certain aspects of GW transmission dynamics that national GWEPs may not have otherwise realized.

Over the course of six months, the Consultant will code, extract, and codify textual data from narrative investigation reports to populate analyzable investigation-related datasets. The Consultant will meet regularly and work closely with the Principal Investigator (GWEP Epidemiologist) to ensure high-quality data assets are produced and delivered in a timely manner.

FORMAL JOB DESCRIPTION

• Thoroughly read narrative investigation reports and adhere to pre-established coding and extraction guidelines
• Apply deductive codes and determine whether additional inductive codes are needed
• Extract and/or codify textual data to populate pre-established data entry forms that will be used to generate analyzable datasets
• Make note of any issues that arise with the data (e.g., missing data attributes, poor quality data) and discuss next steps with the Principal Investigator
• Maintain detailed notes regarding coding and extraction procedures, any deviations from the pre-established guidelines, and related justifications
• Other duties, as required, to deliver high-quality analyzable investigation-related datasets

QUALIFICATIONS

Minimum:

• Master’s degree in public health, science, or a related field, or an equivalent combination of education, training, and experience in health and/or data analytics
• Training and experience in qualitative and quantitative methodologies, including data collection, data management, and data analytics
• Competency with Microsoft-suite computer applications (Word, Excel)
• Strong communication skills and a keen attention to detail
• Written and verbal fluency in English

Preferred:

• Knowledge of qualitative data management software programs (e.g,. MaxQDA, NVivo)
• Experience coding textual data
• Proficiency in managing data from mixed-methods assessments of community-based surveillance and outbreak response programs
• Experience in research and/or program implementation related to neglected tropical diseases or other infectious diseases
• Written fluency in French or Portuguese is ideal

Deliverables

In addition to the services outlined in this position description, the Consultant will be responsible for delivering high-quality, analyzable investigation-related datasets to the Principal Investigator (GWEP Epidemiologist) by the conclusion of the contract.