Research Medical Officer

Wits Health Consortium (Pty) Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of the Witwatersrand. The Wits Health Consortium will only respond to shortlisted candidates. Candidates who have not been contacted within two wee ks of the closing date can consider their applications unsuccessful. The MRC/Wits Rural Public Health and Health Transitions Research Unit (Agincourt), part of the Wits School of Public Health, is a leader in health and population research. For over 30 years, we have supported critical studies that improve lives in underserved communities, underpinned by a robust health and socio- demographic surveillance system (HDSS). Our team is embarking on an exciting EDCTP-funded project (IMCI- PLUS) to address paediatric pneumonia and combat antimicrobial resistance—a vital step toward reducing child mortality. This multi-country initiative spans South Africa, Tanzania, and Senegal, employing mobile ultrasound devices and AI-based interpretation tools to bridge diagnostic gaps. You’ll be part of a vibrant, interdisciplinary consortium working alongside top institutions, including EPFL, Swiss TPH, and the University of Stellenbosch, to bring about lasting change in healthcare. Key performance areas Clinical skills • Complete specialized training in Lung Ultrasound and sample collection techniques. • Perform Lung Ultrasound and specimen collection following study protocols, ensuring accuracy and reliability. • Coordinate with senior clinicians to maintain high standards of data collection and image interpretation. • Collect, organize, and translate medical data from patient records into reliable study data. • Work closely with the lab team on specimen storage and transfer to the Wits-Agincourt Lab. • Facilitate communication of study procedures and findings with clinicians, patients, and the community. • Convene and moderate a panel of experts to determine likely diagnoses of participants based on collected data (e.g., clinical findings, radiography, ultrasound, biomarkers etc) VACANCY Job title: Research Medical Officer x2 (12 months’ contract) Division: Agincourt Type: Permanent ☐ Fixed Term ☒ Temporary ☐ Main purpose of the job: As a Research Medical Officer you’ll join a pioneering team committed to transforming paediatric healthcare in low-resource settings. In this hands-on role, you’ll coordinate field operations at a hospital site in Mpumalanga, engage directly with patients, conduct clinical assessments (including ultrasound), and ensure data is meticulously captured. You’ll also have the chance to develop your skills in data analysis and manuscript writing, translating critical research into impactful publications and contributing to scientific advancements. This position offers unique exposure to advanced diagnostic techniques, mentorship-driven learning, and potential academic development. Location: Tintswalo Hospital, Acornhoek, Mpumalanga, or Themba Hospital, Kabokweni, Mpumalanga Closing date: 28 September 2026 Submit detailed CV to: Weekend.Khoza@wits.ac.za Advert reference number: Agin_001_RMO In accordance with our Employment Equity goals and plan, preference will be given to suitable applicants from designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and subsequent amendments thereto. Wits Health Consortium (Pty) Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of the Witwatersrand. The Wits Health Consortium will only respond to shortlisted candidates. Candidates who have not been contacted within two wee ks of the closing date can consider their applications unsuccessful. • Maintain positive relationships with local health authorities, hospital staff, and the Department of Health Project Site Management & Administration • Lead and support a diverse field team to meet recruitment and follow-up targets. • Oversee on-site data quality checks, manage consent forms, and resolve data issues with the Data Manager. • Maintain site documentation according to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines. • Update, enforce, and comply with site protocols and instructions. • Organize and lead regular project meetings and assist with ethics applications and related documentation. • Collaborate with Wits-Agincourt Unit scientists on administrative needs and team coordination. Communication • Provide progress updates to study investigators and PIs. • Meet regularly with scientific staff to share insights and discuss project developments. Scientific output • Collate project statistics regularly. • Present project progress at weekly study meetings. • Contribute to, and occasionally lead, the preparation of manuscripts based on research findings to build a strong scientific portfolio. Required minimum education and training • MBChB, with demonstrated clinical proficiency. • HPCSA registration Required minimum work experience • Minimum of 2 years’ clinical experience, with some exposure to research and/or management. Desirable additional education, work experience and personal abilities • This role is site-based, requiring daily attendance at the clinical field site (no remote work possible). • The ability to manage priorities in a dynamic environment is essential. • Flexibility with working hours may occasionally be required to meet project needs Should you be interested in applying for this vacancy, please send an email to Weekend.Khoza@wits.ac.za The subject heading of the email must read Agin_001_RMO. Please include the following documentation: • A cover letter (maximum one page) that clearly states which vacancy you are applying for • A detailed CV • Certified copies of your qualifications, ID and driver's license • HPCSA registration