Mortality & Disease Burden Research Specialist (Entry)

South African Medical Research Council; Cape Town; On-site; ZAR 1,100,000 - 1,130,000; Full time

Job summary

The South African Medical Research Council seeks a Specialist Scientist (Entry) in the Burden of Disease Research Unit to lead mortality and burden-of-disease analyses, monitor trends, and contribute to national and provincial health indicators.

The role involves guiding research collaboration, mentoring researchers, publishing high-quality outputs, translating findings into policy and practice, and supporting SAMRC's transformation and capacity development.

Qualifications

• PhD or MBChB with relevant Masters (epi/biostats/MPH) required.
• At least 6 years’ experience in Epidemiology or Public Health.
• Track record of 10 publications with at least 3 as first/senior author.
• Experience in leading grant applications and managing research teams.
• Experience in budgeting, finance and risk management.
• Excellent interpersonal and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Provide scientific and strategic leadership within the research programme.
• Lead grant applications, research projects, and stakeholder engagement initiatives.
• Produce and publish high-quality scientific outputs.
• Mentor and supervise researchers and students.
• Promote evidence-based policy and practice through research translation and advocacy.
• Ensure effective programme governance, financial management, monitoring, and reporting.

Skills

Epidemiology experience

Public health expertise

Grant leadership

Mentoring

Policy translation

Scientific communication

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Education

PhD or MBChB with Masters (epi/biostats/MPH)

Job description

The South African Medical Research Council seeks a Specialist Scientist (Entry) in the Burden of Disease Research Unit to lead mortality and burden-of-disease analyses, monitor trends, and contribute to national and provincial health indicators.

The role involves guiding research collaboration, mentoring researchers, publishing high-quality outputs, translating findings into policy and practice, and supporting SAMRC's transformation and capacity development.