Research Assistant at Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI)

Introduction    
The AHRI Research Assistant is responsible for assisting with the coordination and execution of functions related to the implementation and monitoring of TB, HIV, SARS CoV2 and other research projects in the KZN region.

The candidate will coordinate the logistics for the collection of biological specimens from various healthcare sites in and around Durban. This will include liaising with the study nurse, study coordinator(s), laboratory staff and couriers to provide required specimen kits, collect biological specimens, from healthcare facilities, including operating theatres to collect tissue specimens during surgical procedures when needed.

The candidate will be required to have basic data management skills as they will be required to assist in weekly Quality Control (QC) checks and provide overall Quality Assurance (QA) across projects involved in the Clinical Core. Documentation Management. The candidate will be tasked with compiling reports and producing basic descriptive and study progress updates. They should also assist Managers with any required information or the completion of tasks, where necessary and upon request. The candidate will also focus on the collection and verification of data, perform literature searches, and interpret information to provide feedback on technical activities. The candidate will assist with any regulatory functions, whilst coordinating meetings, and performing basic administration.

This position may require working after hours and frequent local road traveling to healthcare sites. The successful candidate will be based in our Durban site.

Specification    

RESPONSIBILITIES MAY INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO;

Coordination of logistics and Specimen collection:

• Preparation and transportation of specimen collection kits and media from AHRI to clinical sites
• Travel to healthcare sites to collect biological specimens as and when required within permissible timeframes
• Preparation of specimens at clinical sites for transport according to standard operating procedures
• Collect, record and maintain study related data and documentation
• Communication with relevant research study staff and hospital staff at site
• Perform other work-related tasks as required
• Demonstrate compliance with and practice of infection prevention/control policies

Ensuring a high degree of data integrity and study document completion:

• Completion of participant data collection using appropriate tools and in accordance with GCP guidelines
• Resolution of data queries/errors
• Quality control/quality assurance of participant files
• Record keeping and maintaining confidentiality of all study records

Perform other work-related duties and participate in activities as required:

• Arrangement of courier of study samples/specimens when required
• Attend and coordinate required meetings
• Compile reports and basic descriptives
• Assist with research related activities such as literature reviews and inputs on reports and presentations
• Perform regulatory functions

Requirements    

Minimum Qualifications

• Postgraduate Degree in Health or Social Science disciplines with a minimum of 1 year experience in clinical research setting or an Undergraduate Degree with a minimum of 2 years of experience in a clinical research setting
• Must possess a valid South African Code B Driver’s License and own vehicle

Minimum Experience

• Computer literacy and working knowledge of Microsoft Office software
• Previous experience working on a research project

Knowledge and Abilities

• Good knowledge of HIV/AIDS and TB
• Knowledge of the scientific research process
• Ability to capture and organise data electronically
• Ability to write reports

Advantageous

• Fluency in English and isiZulu

Cloisng Date: 17th, April 2022