Unit Director - HIDRU at The South African Medical Research Council (SAMRC)

• The Unit Director position calls for a senior researcher with international standing, proven leadership skills and the ability to enhance and maintain a centre of excellence that facilitates the generation and dissemination of methodological research and primary research to enhance evidence-informed healthcare and policy. Applicants should possess the following knowledge, skills and experience:

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

•  Lead and manage all aspects of the Research Unit in line with SAMRC objectives.
•  To build networks locally, nationally and globally to support the dissemination of research and maximise impact on health and health/health service policy and practice.
•  Development of strategic plan for the Unit.
•  Apply governance principles throughout the research unit.
•  Advance transformation by mentoring and building capacity in accordance with the SAMRC’s Employment Equity Plan
•  Develop, implement and monitor progress of the Transformation Strategy of the Unit.
•  Write and secure grants and contracts to undertake research prioritized for the Unit.
•  Stakeholder Management and scientific research.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS INCLUDE:

•  A PhD in Epidemiology or Public Health or a Medical Speciality.
•  HPCSA registration as a medical doctor (specialist), medical scientist or other allied health professional
•  At least 15 years’ experience in research, of which 8 years must be in senior leadership and/or management capacity within the Epidemiology, or Public Health environment.
•  NRF rated or evidence of international recognition in a focal area within HIV and other Infectious research.
•  A track record of research, grants, publications – national and international (between 50 and 80 lifetime publications (ISI journal articles, editorials or book chapters)).
•  Written successful research grant applications for international and national donors to support a research Programme.
•  Extensive experience in the management of projects, including the development of a multi-year programme of work
•  A track record of clinical trials experience, including protocol development, principal investigator and site leader experience.
•  A track record of working effectively with relevant government departments, national and international partners, funders and other stakeholders
•  Evidence of research translation efforts and international leadership in the field of stakeholder engagement
•  Leadership skills in mentoring and managing a research unit.
•  Presented research findings to international and national conference audiences, including as an invited faculty member and/or keynote speaker.
•  Led research programmes with multi-million-rand research budgets (at any time having multiple conceptually linked projects)
•  Record of capacity strengthening at the national and regional level
•  A track record of capacity building of emerging scientists through graduating Masters and PhD students and training staff in relevant research methods; track record of contributing to transformation initiatives.
•  Human resource and financial management
•  Experience in leading a unit or department
•  Staff management experience
•  Financial and risk management experience
•  Excellent interpersonal relations and communication skills