Senior Researcher [Durban]

Health Systems Trust is a not-for-profit organisation (NPO) supporting the development of an equitable and comprehensive healthcare system for the provision of quality health care in South and southern Africa. We have a vacancy in the organisation for a Senior Researcher. This is a one-year contract position which is renewable based on funding and performance.

JOB DESCRIPTION:
The successful candidate will undertake and manage research projects in line with the organisation’s goal of building equitable, effective and efficient national health systems in South Africa and the region, through the implementation and strengthening of functional health districts.

REQUIREMENTS:

• Preference for a medical doctor with experience in both clinical management and research in TB, HIV and Maternal and Child Health or, if another health profession, at least a Master’s degree plus the relevant professional experience.
• At least five (5) years experience in research including quantitative methods and epidemiology.
• Strong information technology skills and familiarity with spreadsheets, statistical packages and databases.
• General management experience.
• Knowledge and experience of the southern African health systems and policies, public health and the district health system.
• A proactive and professional management style.
• Experience of working in the NPO environment will be an advantage.

KEY AREAS OF RESPONSIBILITY

• Provide technical leadership in the HST research unit, and in the design, securing, resourcing and implementation of health systems research projects.
• Support the Director and Senior Programme Manager with the management of the unit, including:
  • Planning and budgeting 
  • Fundraising, including proposal development, to ensure sustainability of the cluster and the organisation
• Contribute to the management of relationships with funders and stakeholders.
• Contribute to the management of researchers and staff.
• Contribute to the development of knowledge management within the organisation and ensure collaboration with other HST work.
• Represent HST in public forums/meetings/conferences.
• Contribute to the overall leadership of HST as a senior member of the team.

REMUNERATION:
A salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications and in line with the HST's Job Grading System will be offered to the successful candidate. Prospective candidates must be prepared to travel throughout South Africa.

Applications:
A detailed CV with names and contact details of at least three referees (with email addresses) should be sent to the Human Resources Department, Health Systems Trust, P.O. Box 808, Durban, 4000 (Fax: 031-266 9199, E-mail: hr@hst.org.za)

Enquiries: Please direct all queries to rene@hst.org.za or ronel@hst.org.za

Closing date for applications: 26 April 2011

Should you not hear from us within 30 days of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful. HST reserves the right not fill this post.

The Health Systems Trust propotes employment equity, people with disabilities are encouraged to apply.