Specialist Scientist

SM Healthcare Placements is inviting applications from suitably qualified individuals for the position of Specialist Scientist based Durban, Kwa-Zulu Natal for an exciting role within a Medical Research Company in the health care field.

The successful candidate will be required to take up the position as soon as possible. The level at which the appointment will be made will depend on the experience and expertise of the successful candidate.

The following are the qualifications, experience, knowledge and attributes requirements:

Education, Training and Experience

• PhD in epidemiology, biomedical or social science with extensive publication experience
• at least five (5) years senior research experience is needed, preferably in a research institution or a university
• Experience in design, analysis, interpretation and reporting of epidemiological/ observational studies
• Ability to present/write clear and concise research reports and to draft scientific manuscripts for peer-reviewed publication
• Excellent communication skills and ability to pay careful attention to detail and accuracy.
• Excellent interpersonal and organizational skills and the ability to meet deadlines
• Must be pro-active, self-motivated, energetic, flexible, adaptable and innovative
• Ability to manage multiple projects and work effectively, under pressure
• Ability to work independently, and to work effectively and collaboratively in a multi-disciplinary team
• Experience in public health research, HIV/TB co-infections, clinical trial implementation design and analysis
• Proficiency with STATA and other statistical packages e.g. SPSS, SAS

Key performance areas

To increase the scientific outcomes of the Unit, we seek to appoint experienced scientists with a strong HIV and/or TB clinical research background. The incumbents will be responsible for providing expertise in the design, management and evaluation of study protocols and health status questionnaires, sample selection and analysis. S/He will also conduct research to develop methodologies for biomedical application, analyse data and present findings.

• Develop self-initiated research protocols
• Grant writing
• Scientific Publication
• Mentoring of Junior Scientists
• Project Management of funded projects

Work collaboratively with internal and external scientists in the development of:
• Grant funding applications
• Study protocols/documentation
• Data collection instruments/tools (questionnaires and forms)

Only short listed applicants will be contacted. Applicants, who have not been contacted within 2 - 3 weeks of the closing date, should assume that their application has not been successful.