Research Assistant – Kamuzu University of Health Sciences

Job Description

Modeling the Effects of Integrating Diabetic Retinopathy Services in the Malawi Health System (MEDReM), a project under Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS) which is a University and Centre of Excellence in health education, research, and innovation whose mission is ‘to advance knowledge, professional competencies, skills, and innovations in health sciences through high-quality student-centred and innovative education and research that responds to and influences the global/national policy, health, and development needs in an efficient, sustainable, and result-oriented manner’.

The project aims to develop models for integrating screening and treatment of diabetic retinopathy (DR) within the health system, reducing sight loss due to diabetes in Malawi. To achieve its goals the project wishes to recruit a Research Assistant.

Position Title : Research Assistant

Location : Kamuzu University of Health Sciences, Blantyre.

Job Type : Full-time

Contract Duration : Two years

Reporting to : The Principal Investigator

Key Responsibilities:

The successful candidate will work under the supervision of the Principal Investigator and will be responsible for:

• Coordinating and managing day-to-day research activities related to the project.
• Overseeing data collection, data management, and analysis.
• Liaising with healthcare facilities, including diabetic and eye clinics, to facilitate smooth integration of services.
• Organizing and leading field visits and meetings with stakeholders.
• Preparing quarterly progress reports and assisting in the preparation of publications.
• Ensuring compliance with ethical and regulatory requirements for research.
• Supporting project team members with logistics, meetings, and stakeholder engagements.

Qualifications and Experience:

• A minimum of a diploma in Information technology, public health or related field.
• At least three (3) years of experience in coordinating eye health projects. Applicants with experience working on diabetic retinopathy projects will have an added advantage.
• Proven experience in managing research projects, including data collection, analysis and report writing.
• Strong organizational, communication, and interpersonal skills.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively within a team.
• Experience working with health systems and engaging with healthcare professionals is desirable.
• Knowledge of the Malawi health system and eye care services will be an added advantage.

Application Procedure

Interested candidates who meet the above requirements should send their applications including cover letter, CV with names of three traceable professional referees and copies of relevant certificates to:

The Registrar
Kamuzu University of Health Sciences
Mahatma Gandhi Road Campus
P/Bag 360
Chichiri
Blantyre 3
Or email to: recruitment@kuhes.ac.mw

Indicate the position title on the envelope for hard copy applications and indicate the same in the subject line of your email for electronic submissions.

Applications should reach the Registrar not later than 31^st October, 2024. Only short-listed candidates shall be acknowledged