Junior Health Research Scientist: Data & Fieldwork

South African Medical Research Council; Durban; On-site; ZAR 361,000 - 441,000; Full time

Job summary

South African Medical Research Council in Durban invites applications for a Junior Scientist (E) to provide technical and operational research support across ongoing projects, including data collection and fieldwork coordination. The role requires a 4-year honours in Public Health or Epidemiology and at least 2 years in a research setting, with experience in both quantitative and qualitative methods.

The appointee will manage data, assist with recruitment, ensure SOP adherence, and contribute to

Qualifications

• 4-year tertiary qualification (Honours degree) in Public Health, Epidemiology, or a related field.
• Minimum 2 years’ experience in a research environment (SAMRC or similar).
• Experience conducting research with children, adolescents and caregivers within a clinic or health environment.
• Experience with conducting both quantitative and qualitative research.
• Experience working on collaborative or multiple studies.
• Experience analyzing survey data.
• Worked on mixed methods papers.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.

Responsibilities

• Supporting the implementation of research studies in accordance with approved protocols and SOPs.
• Conducting and coordinating data collection activities and ensuring quality control of data.
• Assisting with participant recruitment, screening, consenting, and retention activities.
• Performing data entry, cleaning, and preparation of datasets for analysis.
• Conducting basic quantitative data analysis using statistical software (e.g. STATA).
• Supporting qualitative data processes, including coordination of transcription and coding.
• Maintaining accurate study records, documentation, and filing systems.
• Coordinating fieldwork logistics, including transport, materials, and scheduling.
• Preparing routine reports and providing updates on research activities.
• Supporting dissemination activities, including presentations and contribution to reports.
• Liaising with internal teams and external collaborators as required.

Skills

Data collection

Data management

Qualitative analysis

Independent working

Team collaboration

Education

Honours degree in Public Health or Epidemiology

Tools

STATA

REDCap

Job description

South African Medical Research Council in Durban invites applications for a Junior Scientist (E) to provide technical and operational research support across ongoing projects, including data collection and fieldwork coordination. The role requires a 4-year honours in Public Health or Epidemiology and at least 2 years in a research setting, with experience in both quantitative and qualitative methods.

The appointee will manage data, assist with recruitment, ensure SOP adherence, and contribute to