Job Description

Background:

• The Health Economics and Epidemiology Research Office (HE2RO) of the University of the Witwatersrand, based in Johannesburg, South Africa, is an internationally recognized health research organization that conducts research and analysis on issues of public health importance, including a strong focus on HIV, TB, and NCDs
• HE2RO seeks to build the evidence base to improve health policies and programs in South Africa and the region
• The Organization collaborates on policy-relevant research with Boston University and other national and international organizations
• HE2RO seeks a dynamic, enthusiastic, and self-motivated Data Scientist to be part of their research team
• Successful applicants will be part of a team of researchers working on cutting-edge public health research questions that contribute to the evidence base for improving access to, and delivery of health services for HIV, TB, and other health challenges

Location:

• The position is based at HE2ROs head office in Johannesburg but may require travel within Sub-Saharan Africa and possibly globally
• Overtime/weekend hours and working in rural areas and/or under-resourced circumstances will be required from time to time
• This is a full-time/fixed-term position

Responsibilities and Duties:

• Support for further refinements, training, and validation of record linkage algorithm
• Manage projects and data stakeholder engagements as required
• Managing protocols for cohort data release including:

• checking cohort data
• creating cohort metadata
• creating and updating a database with all cohort data requests, releases, and links to full metadata, data documentation, and a unique identifier for that specific cohort run
• Conducting linkage of external datasets or other analyses that require access to identifiable data within the NHLS environment
• Create and manage a virtual repository for cohorts within HE2RO with full documentation; and manage access permissions

Requirements:

• Minimum 3-5 years of Big Database and Data Management experience
• Masters Degree in Data Science or related qualification
• Shows Initiative and leadership as a researcher
• May lead a small project - i.e. as a local PI or co-investigator
• Data analysis [SQL and Python], and data management skills
• Experience with more advanced statistical methods (Stata)/willingness to learn
• Able to communicate well, both written and spoken
• Self-motivated, able to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team
• Ability to maintain confidentiality, tact, and professionalism at all times
• Ability to manage and maintain good relations with both participants and fellow team members
• Willing to work flexible hours (e.g. late afternoons)/overtime/weekend hours) conducting household and/or telephonic interviews
• A valid drivers license will be advantageous
• Willingness to travel locally if required

TO APPLY:

• Only if you do meet the minimum job requirements and experience as mentioned above, you may submit a detailed updated CV.
• Please Apply Online.
• Please take note that the applicants who do not adhere to the above criteria will not be considered for the respective position.

The closing date for all applications: 20 February 2024.

• Note AJ Personnel is fully POPI compliant.
• Note WHC, in accordance with their Employment Equity goals and plan, will give preference to suitable applicants from designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and subsequent amendments thereto.

Please note:

• AJ PERSONNEL is only responsible for the advertising of the advertisement on behalf of their client Wits Health Consortium.
• Wits Health Consortium will only respond to shortlisted candidates.
• Candidates who have not been contacted within two weeks of the closing date can consider their applications to be unsuccessful.
• AJ Personnel does not have any salary or other information regarding the position.

AJ Personnel