Wits Health Consortium Research Study Assistant Apply Before 25 Feb 2026

Wits Health Consortium Research Study Assistant role offers an opportunity for motivated candidates to support important health research projects through data collection, participant coordination, and study administration. This position provides valuable hands-on experience within a professional research environment, making it ideal for individuals looking to build a career in medical research and public health. Applications must be submitted before 25 February 2026.

Wits Health Consortium (Pty) Ltd is a wholly owned subsidiary of the University of the Witwatersrand.

The organization will only respond to shortlisted candidates. Applicants who are not contacted within two weeks after the closing date should consider their applications unsuccessful.

Position Details

Job Title: Research Study Assistant
Employment Type: Fixed Term
Location: Wits RHI Research Centre Clinical Research Site, 7 Esselen Street, Hillbrow
Advert Reference Number: UM 07-2026
Closing Date: 25 February 2026

Main Purpose of the Job

To perform day-to-day research-related activities including data collection, analysis, quality assurance, research administration, and participant recruitment and retention.

All duties must be conducted in line with approved study protocols, ethical guidelines, and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) standards.

Key Performance Areas

Conduct literature reviews to build familiarity with project and topic areas
Perform qualitative data collection including in-depth interviews (IDIs), focus group discussions (FGDs), facilitated workshops (FWs), and administration of questionnaires
Ensure accurate data collection, transcription, and translation
Obtain informed consent and support participant recruitment and retention
Schedule participant study visits and maintain participant files
Compile study reports and provide progress updates
Ensure proper storage and archiving of electronic and hard copy data according to SOPs
Publish, disseminate, and present findings to stakeholders
Participate in internal and external research meetings
Ensure adherence to study protocols, GCP, and ethical requirements
Complete project administration tasks including participant reimbursements
Document team meetings when required
Ensure timely data entry and resolution of quality control queries
Implement corrective actions based on internal and external QC reports
Assist with staff training where error trends are identified
Verify source documentation accuracy and correct errors appropriately
Maintain high productivity, accuracy, and professional standards

Minimum Education and Training

Tertiary degree in Social Sciences
Relevant postgraduate qualification will be advantageous
Experience conducting qualitative research activities such as IDIs and FGDs
Experience in qualitative data analysis
Proficiency in qualitative analysis software such as Dedoose or NVivo
Fluency in English and Zulu and/or Sotho
Strong written and verbal communication skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office applications
Statistical analysis skills using STATA will be advantageous

Minimum Work Experience

At least one year of work experience in a research environment involving qualitative and quantitative methods

Additional Skills and Competencies

Certification in Good Clinical Practice (GCP) is advantageous
Experience in academic or research publication writing
Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team
Strong administrative and organizational skills
Attention to detail and strict adherence to protocols
Empathy, professionalism, and strong interpersonal skills
Ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines
Willingness to pursue continuous professional development

Employment Equity

In accordance with the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and subsequent amendments, preference will be given to suitable applicants from designated groups.