1064-India-Hybrid trial for Alcohol reduction among people with TB and HIV in India (HATHI)

HATHI Study Overview
The HATHI study is a 2-arm Effectiveness-Implementation Randomized Controlled Trial (Hybrid Type 1) designed to evaluate the impact of the HATHI intervention on TB and HIV/TB care. Participants are randomized into two arms: the intervention arm, which includes the HATHI intervention integrated into TB and HIV/TB care with three intervention boosters, and the control arm, which provides usual care consisting of provider advice and as-needed referral to treatment. The study will recruit a total of 450 patients, with 225 participants having TB only and 225 participants with HIV/TB co-infection, from HIV ART Centers and TB clinics in Pune, Maharashtra, India. Primary effectiveness outcomes measured at 6 months will include 1) drinking days, heavy (binge) drinking days, number of drinks per drinking day, and an alcohol biomarker phosphatidyl ethanol (PEth). Secondary outcomes will include 1) HIV and TB medication adherence and retention in care; 2) Time to TB smear negativity; 3) the composite unfavorable TB outcome of TB treatment default, failure, or death, and 4) HIV-RNA suppression. Following the RE-AIM framework, we will use mixed methods to assess barriers and facilitators to intervention reach, effectiveness, adoption, implementation, and maintenance. We will also measure the incremental costs of this intervention strategy. Prior to conducting the RCT, we will tailor the HATHI intervention for use in Pune and increase its relevance to alcohol use in TB and HIV.

The Student will contribute to the HATHI study in Pune, Maharashtra, India, focusing on qualitative data coding, manuscript preparation, and research support tasks.
Key Responsibilities:
1.        Data Cleaning and Entry: Review collected data for accuracy and ensure proper entry into study databases.
2.        Data Processing: Transcribe audio data and prepare datasets for analysis.
3.        Data Analysis: Conduct qualitative analyses using the software MAXQDA Pro.
4.        Literature Review: Research and summarize existing literature on alcohol use, TB, and HIV/TB care.
5.        Manuscript Support: Draft and edit sections of manuscripts for planned papers.
 

Type of Setting: Indian Government/ Private Hospitals and Medical Schools
Primary Locations:BJGMC Sassoon General Hospitals, Pune, Dr. D. Y. Patil Medical College and Research Center, Pimpri, Pune.

This placement would be a good fit for someone with a strong interest in socio-behavioral research and an understanding of mixed-method manuscript writing. Ideal candidates should have a passion for global health research, particularly in the intersection of TB, HIV, and substance use.

1.        Language Skills: English (required); local language - Marathi/Hindi (optional).
2.        Data Analysis: Proficiency in qualitative software (e.g., MAXQDA Pro).
3.        Manuscript Writing Skills:
•        Understanding of mixed-method research approaches.
•        Experience with manuscript writing and literature reviews.
4.        Additional Skills:
•        Ability to work effectively in a diverse environment.
•        Strong verbal and written communication abilities.
•        Strong organizational skills for monitoring study progress and documentation.

Name: Amita Gupta, lkodali3@jh.edu 

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

I would describe my communication and mentorship styles as approachable, collaborative, and committed, with an open-door policy and regular engagement with students and the Indian team.

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

A complimentary student will have a working style and mentorship expectations that align with open communication, proactive collaboration, and a willingness to engage regularly for mutual growth and success.

Estimated Costs:

Housing: $500/month
Food: $250/month 
Local Transportation: $100/month 
Internet: $20/month data sim card

Total: $870/month

Additional support from PI:

A stipend is available to offset costs.