Junior Research Fellow (JRF) at University of Cape Town

Role Overview

• KTF is seeking a Junior Research Fellow (JRF) to support the Director and research team through research activities, administration, networking, data management, analysis, and presentations at research meetings.
• The position focuses on research management, data analysis, capacity development and policy-relevant health systems evaluation, particularly in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) experiencing a double burden of disease.

Qualifications

• Master’s degree or PhD in a relevant field (e.g., public health, social science) or medical degree 1-2 years’ research experience, preferably in a tertiary educational institution.

Essential requirements

• Experience working in clinical research.
• A current, accredited Good Clinical Practice (GCP) certificate.
• A proven track record of successfully working within multidisciplinary clinical and research teams.
• A mature and responsible approach to work, with the ability to take ownership and accountability for projects.
• Ability to work effectively under pressure and to meet deadlines in a fast-paced environment.
• Exceptional attention to detail, with a strong commitment to quality and accuracy.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English, with the confidence to work effectively within a strong, dynamic team.
• High emotional intelligence, with the ability to understand and empathise with programme end-users and diverse stakeholders.
• Demonstrates innovation, resilience, proactivity, adaptability, and a strong quality-oriented approach.
• Proficiency in MS Office, Adobe Acrobat, qualitative analysis software, digital communication platforms, and research tools.
• Responsible and self-directed, with the ability to follow instructions independently, communicate effectively across diverse levels, solve problems, exercise sound judgement, and take ownership of assigned projects.
• Strong writing and documentation skills.
• Willingness and ability to learn new research skills, methodologies, systems, and approaches.

Personal Attributes:

• Practical, organised, and proactive.
• Comfortable working independently and coordinating across teams and countries.
• Curious about digital innovation and learning systems.
• Reliable, collaborative, and detail-oriented.
• NPC Reg. No. 2024/333268/08 | Knowledge Translation Foundation NPC 2

Key Responsibilities:

Research Support

• Conduct research activities and contribute to research outputs, including manuscripts, conference presentations, posters and reports.
• Provide research and academic support to the PI.
• Coordinate research meetings, including scheduling, agendas, documentation and follow-up.
• Support the strategic planning and coordination of collaborative research projects.
• Assist with drafting, reviewing and submitting manuscripts for publication.

Knowledge Synthesis and Translation

• Conduct evidence synthesis to support knowledge translation and dissemination to communities, stakeholders and policymakers.
• Translate research findings into accessible research, policy and training outputs.
• Coordinate webinars, workshops and stakeholder engagements to support dissemination and uptake of research findings.
• Manage and maintain research-related documentation, SOPs and guidelines.

Data Management

• Support qualitative and quantitative data collection, collation and analysis.
• Present and communicate research findings and data at workshops, conferences and information sessions.

Publications, Reporting and Media

• Present research findings at relevant meetings.
• Attend workshops, conferences and research meetings for professional development and knowledge sharing.
• Keep up to date with relevant literature and emerging evidence.

How to Apply

• Email your application to [email protected] with the subject line: Junior Research Fellow (JRF) Aug-Sep 2026,

Attach:

• CV
• Motivation letter
• Certified copy of highest qualification
• Important Notes
• Incomplete applications will not be considered.
• Only applicants who have completed all application requirements will be considered.
• KTU is committed to employment equity and strives to appoint candidates in line with its equity objectives.
• The organisation reserves the right not to make an appointment should no suitable candidate be identified.
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
• Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo an assessment.

Closing Date: 9 September 2026