GRAP Opportunity – Perceptions of HIV among Young Adults in Rural South Africa (Bor)

Opportunity ID: 01-Bor

Project Title: Perceptions of HIV among Young Adults in Rural South Africa

Faculty Mentor: Jacob Bor

Description Statement:

The scale-up of lifesaving antiretroviral therapy (ART) has profoundly changed the HIV risk environment in rural South Africa, where nearly one-third of adults are HIV-infected. Life expectancy has increased by over a decade due to ART scale-up in this population, and HIV has transformed into a manageable chronic disease. I am conducting a mixed methods research study to understand how young adults perceive HIV in the age of ART, and how these perceptions influence behaviors across three domains: HIV testing, sexual behavior, and human capital investment (e.g. schooling). Qualitative interviews and focus groups will inform an intervention, in which we will provide information to young adults on the changing risk environment, and assess impacts on beliefs and behaviors.

Scope of Work:

I am looking for up to two students to work with me on this project. Tasks may include:

  1. Literature review on topics such as “young adult perceptions of HIV in the age of ART” and “strategies to convey information about health risks”;
  2. Coding qualitative interviews and focus group transcripts;
  3. Assistance developing study instruments;
  4. Assistance developing informational intervention;
  5. Other project-related tasks

Minimum Skills Desired:

Strong writing skills, experience with Mendeley or similar reference manager, qualitative research experience, experience conducting literature reviews, experience with NVivo, interest in psychology, economics, or health behavior

Time / Date Expectations:

10 hours per week, beginning Jan 2016. This is an open-ended assignment. Success with initial tasks will lead to opportunities for further involvement with the project.

Additional Material Requested: Applicant should submit a writing sample.

Number of students requested: 1-2 students

Logistics & Support: Biweekly meetings