Senior Biostatistician at Desmond Tutu Health Foundation

Job Description
The main purpose of this position is to provide bio-statistical leadership and support to principal investigators for project planning, implementation, and data analysis across DTHF projects and sites. The incumbent will lead DTHF’s analysis of health data using traditional biostatistics and/or data science methods. The incumbent may also undertake their own research activities in a field relevant to the focus of the DTHF. The term of this position may be extended based on the awarding of new grants.

Requirements

• Masters in Biostatistics or Statistics
• At least 5-years biostatistical experience post-degree
• At least 4-years of experience in managing large datasets and calibrating data using statistical modelling techniques
• At least 2-3 years experienced working in a setting/environment that involves the application of public health principles
• At least 2 years experience analyzing data from clinical trial studies
• Must have experience teaching MPH-level biostatistics and/or epidemiology courses
• MUST have expertise with statistical software packages, such as STATA and R-studio
• Highly experienced in implementing independent data analysis projects and running them to completion
• Must have proven record in dissemination of research study results where contribution was as study biostatistician (i.e., peer reviewed manuscripts and conference abstracts)
• Excellent communication and interpersonal skills
• Comfortable managing relationships with high-level stakeholders and senior leadership
• Ability to work under tight deadlines and deliver high quality work.
• Highly organized, self-motivated, and effective in delivering on set objectives for the project.
• Effective team building and teamwork skills
• Detail-orientation with the ability to identify and implement creative solutions.
• Must be willing to live in East London or Cape Town 

Advantageous:

• PhD in Biostatistics, Statistics or other related field or currently engaged in PhD program
• Biostatistician on a NIH, EDCTP or SA-MRC funded study
• Previous experience with managing qualitative research data
• Knowledge of POPI Act and its impact on data collection, management and sharing.
• Technical Project Management knowledge and skills
• Valid code 8 driver’s license and own vehicle
• Good Clinical Practice (GCP) certification

Responsibilities:

• Provide expertise in study design, evaluation of study protocols, management of large datasets, questionnaires, survey methods and statistical analysis.
• Engage with study leads / senior researchers during grant development to ensure appropriate study design and statistical methodologies
• Engage with study leads / senior researchers during project implementation process to develop data plans for study implementation.
• Conduct advanced biostatistical/analytical modelling as required.
• Support analyses and presentation of data required for Data Safety and Monitoring Board reviews
• Develop additional Data Science Skills required to undertake analyses.
• Support training activities for project implementation as needed and consistent with data collection activities
• Provide consultation and support to site data managers during the database development process to ensure that databases are tailored to meet study requirements and statistical analysis needs.
• Mentor’s junior biostatisticians, data analysist, researchers regarding basic statistical analysis and methodology
• Provide support, supervision, and mentorship to PhD students
• Conceptualize and carry out a program of research in the broad field of DTHF focus.
• Build appropriate research collaborations within & outside DTHF