Job Description

Title of PositionCoordinator: Research EthicsPost Number8033438Faculty/DepartmentUniversity of the Western Cape -> Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Research & Innovation -> Research Development & Postgraduate SupportType of PositionPermanent - Full TimeLength of Contract PeriodLocationMain Campus - Bellville, WC ZA (Primary)Closing Date9/3/2025Role Clarification & Key Performance AreasThe University of the Western Cape has over the past few years steadily become one of the research-led teaching and learning universities in South Africa, with the capacity to produce and advance new knowledge in recognised research strength and the translation of this knowledge through innovation endeavours.An exciting opportunity exists in the UWC research development and postgraduate support office for a suitably qualified candidate to contribute to the Institution`s research activities and achievementsThe successful incumbent is responsible for the following Key Performance Areas:

• Provide support, education and assistance to the researchers and their teams
• Serves as the link to ensure accurate & timely information flow by maintaining effective working relationships with the team and stakeholders.
• Responsible for all aspects of administration associated with the research ethics and research integrity procedures.
• Coordinate and promote good research conduct and practices across the University.
• Provide guidance and education with respect to submission content
• Ensure accurate interpretation and implementation of current submissions.
• Coordinate the ongoing development of research ethics processes, including the introduction and implementation of new standard operating processes and policies. This will be done by offering training sessions to staff on REC processes and guidelines.
• Coordinate and update information in the University and Office Research Development databases to ensure that all research ethics-related documents and forms are up to date.
• Support in the preparation of Annual Reports to National Health Research Ethics Council
• Prepare / issue notifications of ethical approval by the research committee; complete and issue approval forms for granting agencies.
• Develop, implement, and maintain records and follow up procedures for all research projects.
• Coordinate logistical arrangement for other training opportunities outside of UWC, for REC members.
• Maintain an effective filing system
• Arrange and organize research ethics meetings; prepare and distribute agenda and materials; arrange for all investigators and guests to be present.
• Coordinate the logistical arrangement for the REC meetings.
• Coordinate the preparing and distributing the meeting pack prior to each meeting.
• Minute-taking at the meeting, where applicable
• Preparation of minutes following the meeting, as well as the coordination of any actions resulting from the meeting.

Minimum RequirementsMinimum Requirements (Qualification and Experience)

• A relevant Honours Degree at an NQF 8 or an equivalent qualification
• A minimum of 5 years relevant experience in administration of a Research Ethics Committee.
• A minimum of 3 years staff supervision experience.
• Experience and understanding of a research ethics environment at a University, Research Institute, or equivalent.
• An understating of NHREC requirements and standards, guidelines relevant to clinical and research ethics.
• Proven report writing and minute-taking skills and working ability of the Committee Management Systems.
• Working knowledge and experience of higher education governance policies, procedures, and structures.
• Proficiency in MS Office and Digital Media.

Required competencies (skills, knowledge, and behavioural attributes):

• Source and master relevant information
• Ability to work accurately under extreme pressure
• Sound problem-solving skills: logistical, analytical, and numeric
• Excellent written skills
• Attention to detail
• Extremely high work ethic.
• Ability to review technical documents
• Excellent organizational skills

In your application, you are encouraged to highlight your strengths and include anything else you deem exceptional and outstanding to be considered by the selection panel. In addition, please attach a cover letter motivating your suitability, a detailed curriculum vitae including contact details of three referees, and your highest qualification to your online profile.DISCLAIMER: By applying for the position, you consent to the University sharing your application, including curriculum vitae, with University stakeholders to process the application. In line with the University's commitment to diversifying its workforce, preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants in line with our Employment Equity Targets. The official retirement age at UWC is 65 years. The University reserves the right to not make an appointment, make an appointment at a different level, seek additional candidates and may conduct competency assessments.

University of the Western Cape