Chief Specialist Scientist

An appropriately qualified and experienced senior researcher is required to join our team on a fulltime basis (3 year contract) with the objective of playing a lead role in conceptualizing and implementing innovative research, managing our research projects and supporting capacity development. The South African Cochrane Centre (SACC), a research unit based at the South African Medical Research Council, conducts and disseminates systematic reviews of healthcare interventions, and promotes the application of evidence-based decision-making in policy and practice both nationally and internationally.

The successful candidate will more specifically be tasked with:

• publishing in high impact journals
• preparing Cochrane systematic reviews
• initiating and managing projects, including managing deadlines and budgets, sourcing funding
• developing protocols, products, concepts and leading research projects
• networking and collaborating with local and international partners and stakeholders, including policy-makers
• training and developing capacity, including conducting seminars, and supervising junior scientific staff
• presenting research findings and reports at relevant conferences/meetings.

Suitable candidates must be in possession of a PhD degree in a relevant field. Experience in conducting systematic reviews is required as well as grounding in the principles and practice of evidence-based healthcare. In addition, training and experience in epidemiology and biostatistics are essential. The ideal candidate will be an experienced senior researcher who has led several projects successfully, and has an excellent publication record. Candidates must have experience of working with clinicians and policy-makers and demonstrate well-developed verbal and written communication skills. A clinical background is advantageous, but not a pre-requisite for the position. 
Willingness to travel nationally, regionally and internationally is prerequisite. A valid Code B driver’s license will complete the profile of the ideal candidate.

A cost-to-company remuneration package in the region of R962 000 per annum will be negotiated in accordance with qualifications and experience.

In accordance with the MRC’s Employment Equity Plan, preference will be given to suitably qualified candidates from the designated groups. For this reason we require Race, Gender and Disability status to specified.  Disable person are encouraged to apply.  

Please quote the reference number (R721) in all communications. Certified copies of your id and highest formal qualifications must be submitted with this application. Should your application not contain the required information and documents, it will unfortunately not be considered.

The MRC retains the right not to make an appointment.

Closing Date: 30 March 2014

If you have not heard from us within 30 days of the closing date, 
this will mean that your application has been unsuccessful.

Kindly forward your application, comprising a comprehensive CV, contact details of three referees (at least two of which professional), and a covering letter of motivation to Ms Lee-Anne Louw or Ms Janet Ndimande, Human Resources Directorate, MRC, P.O. Box 19070, Tygerberg 7505 or fax 021 938 0829 or via e-mail to recruitment@mrc.ac.za to reach us no later than 30 March 2014