Wits Health Consortium Research Study Assistant (X2) – 3 Months Temporary Contract offers an immediate opportunity for candidates to support active health research projects through participant coordination, data collection, and study administration. This short-term contract is ideal for individuals seeking hands-on experience in medical research and public health, providing valuable exposure within a professional research environment. Apply now to be considered.
Organization Overview
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 do not receive feedback within two weeks after the closing date should consider their application unsuccessful.
Position Details
Job Title: Research Study Assistant (X2)
Employment Type: Temporary (3 Months)
Location: 7 Esselen Street, Hillbrow, Johannesburg
Advert Reference Number: UM 08-2026
Closing Date: 27 February 2026
Main Purpose of the Job
To recruit study participants from the community and Wits RHI supported clinics into a research study. The role includes maintaining participant retention through home visits and telephone tracking, supporting study administration, and strengthening community engagement and awareness of the study.
Key Performance Areas
Participant Recruitment and Community Engagement
- Promote studies through presentations, one-on-one discussions, and distribution of brochures at approved clinics and community centres
- Recruit participants in line with recruitment targets and SOPs
- Inform participants that study participation is voluntary
- Conduct screening interviews to determine eligibility
- Obtain pre-consent for booking screening appointments
- Conduct informed consent discussions according to site ICF SOP
- Address concerns and misconceptions about the study
- Build trust and respectful relationships with participants
- Report daily recruitment numbers to the team leader
- Ensure availability of HREC-approved health promotion materials on site
- Liaise with Study Coordinators to support dissemination of study information
Participant Retention and Follow-Up
- Contact participants prior to scheduled visits to provide reminders
- Conduct telephonic follow-ups to reschedule visits where necessary
- Address participant queries or escalate to line manager
- Assist with home visits where required
- Assist with lab specimen and team transportation
Data Management and Administration
- File and archive informed consent forms and study documentation
- Prepare participant files for upcoming visits
- Capture and export data on databases such as edata, REDCap, Medidata, InForm, and IBM CD
- Identify missing data, inconsistencies, and errors and follow up accordingly
- Resolve data queries and perform logical checks
- Record quality-assured information on Quality Control logs
- Ensure compliance with SOPs and quality standards
- Refer administrative issues to the Data Manager or Line Manager
- Support smooth day-to-day administrative operations
Meetings and Professional Conduct
- Attend internal and external meetings
- Chair or take minutes during recruitment meetings when required
- Assist with networking among relevant stakeholders
- Participate in ad hoc projects and initiatives
- Maintain a positive attitude and respond constructively to feedback
- Participate in training, workshops, forums, and professional development sessions
- Demonstrate accountability, task ownership, and effective self-management
Minimum Education and Training
- Grade 12
- Fluency in English and other African languages, preferably Sesotho and Zulu
Minimum Work Experience
- At least two years of working experience
- Valid driver’s licence
Desirable Skills and Competencies
- Certification in Good Clinical Practice (GCP)
- Strong interpersonal and communication skills
- Empathy and respect for confidentiality
- Computer literacy with working knowledge of Microsoft Office
- Ability to troubleshoot basic technical issues such as WhatsApp and mobile applications
- Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team
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.
Application Procedure
Interested candidates should send their application to [email protected].
The subject line must read: UM 08-2026 and include the job title of the position applied for.
Applications must include:
- A cover letter (maximum one page) clearly stating the vacancy applied for
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae
Ensure that all required documentation is submitted before the closing date.
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