Research Associate (Monitoring and Evaluation), Community Outreach Division

Cancer Research Malaysia; Selangor; On-site; MYR 70,000 - 90,000; Full time

Job summary

A non-profit cancer research organization in Malaysia seeks a dynamic Research Associate to enhance performance in data collection and reporting. Candidates should have a Master’s degree with at least five years in monitoring and evaluation, and strong data analysis skills. The role focuses on improving project outcomes through effective monitoring strategies and collaboration with the community outreach team.

Qualifications

• Minimum 5 years of relevant experience in project monitoring and evaluation.
• Strong emphasis on data analytics required.
• Demonstrated ability to manage complexity and multitask.

Responsibilities

• Monitor and enhance data collection systems.
• Develop and strengthen monitoring procedures.
• Assist in preparing Quarterly/Annual reports.

Skills

Data analysis

Monitoring and evaluation

Project management

Statistical software usage (SPSS, Stata, R)

Communication skills (English, Bahasa Malaysia)

Education

Master's degree in epidemiology or related field

Tools

SPSS

Stata

R

Job description

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

• Monitor and enhance the performance of systems established to collect data (such as the Joget system), including:
  • Being responsible for ensuring data collection completeness, and analysis of different data in relation to the project activities
  • Assisting the navigators with monitoring and evaluation tools and in supporting them in their use
• Develop and strengthen monitoring, inspection and evaluation procedures, including:
  • Monitor all project activities, expenditures and progress towards achieving the project output;
  • Review the logic framework together with the Head of Department and to recommend further improvement of the logic framework;
  • Develop monitoring and impact indicators that define project success;
  • Propose strategies to improve efficiency and assist Head of Unit in implementing these
  • Provide feedback to the Head of Unit on project strategies and activities;
  • 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;
• Assist the Head of Unit in preparing Quarterly/Annual reports on project progress, and publications associated with the project
• 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