Research Associate

SCOPE / PURPOSE OF JOB / JOB RESPONSIBILITIES

ABOUT THE UNIT

Cancer Research Malaysia is the country's only independent non-profit cancer research organization, focused on conducting

impactful research on cancers common in Asians and delivering evidence-based solutions to reduce the cancer burden in

Malaysia.

The purpose of the Community Outreach Unit at Cancer Research Malaysia

is to reduce the burden of late-stage cancer through cancer prevention and early detection, delivered via innovative

community-based programmes. By working in close partnership with government hospitals, NGOs, and local communities, the

Unit also supports patients in navigating complex healthcare systems—enhancing access to timely diagnosis and ensuring

compliance to treatment. Through these efforts, we aim to close the cancer care gap and improve outcomes, particularly for

underserved populations.

SCOPE / PURPOSE OF JOB

The Community Outreach Research Unit is looking for a dynamic and motivated Research Associate (Monitoring and

Evaluation). Under the overall guidance of the Head of the Community Outreach Unit , the Research Associate will be

responsible for monitoring and enhancing the performance of systems established for the routine collection of data,

establishing a framework for programme monitoring and ensuring high quality and timely inputs and reports; and for ensuring

that the project maintains its strategic vision and that its activities meet the planned milestones in a cost effective and timely

manner. The Research Associate works in close collaboration with the Donor Engagement team for preparation and submission

of reports to appropriate stakeholders.

RESPONSIBILITIES

1. Monitor and enhance the performance of systems established to collect data (such as the Joget system), including

a. Being responsible for ensuring data collection completeness, and analysis of different data in relation to the project

activities

b. Assisting the navigatos with monitoring and evaluation tools and in supporting them in their use

2. Develop and strengthen monitoring, inspection and evaluation procedures, including:

a. Monitor all project activities, expenditures and progress towards achieving the project output;

b. Review the logic framework together with the Head of Department and to recommend further improvement of the logic

framework;

c. Develop monitoring and impact indicators that define project success;

d. Propose strategies to improve efficiency and assist Head of Unit in implementing these

e. Provide feedback to the Head of Unit on project strategies and activities;

f. Suggest strategies to the Project Management for improving the efficiency and effectiveness of the project by identifying

bottlenecks in completing project activities and developing plans to minimize or eliminate such bottlenecks;

3. Assist the Head of Unit in preparing Quarterly/Annual reports on project progress, and publications associated with the

project

4. Perform other duties as required.

QUALIFICATIONS/REQUIREMENTS

Academic Qualifications

• At least a Master's degree in epidemiology, public health, implementation science, data

science, health informatics, or a related field with strong emphasis on data analytics

• Additional certifications in Monitoring & Evaluation (M&E), data management, or health

systems research are an advantage

Experience and Expertise

• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in project monitoring and evaluation, preferably in

health or development sectors

• Demonstrated experience in designing tools and strategies for data collection, analysis,

and reporting

• Proven ability to analyse data using statistical software (e.g., SPSS, Stata, R)

• Experience in developing or managing digital data collection and monitoring platforms

• Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals commensurate with years of

experience

Other Competencies

• Understanding of M&E methodologies, qualitative and quantitative research approaches

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English and Bahasa Malaysia

• Strong project management and facilitation skills

• Proactive, self-motivated, and able to work independently

• Demonstrated ability to manage complexity, multitask, and meet