PROMISE is a collaboration led by the University of Edinburgh in close collaboration with Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS), St John of God, and the Malawi Ministry of Health.
PROMISE is a 5-year Wellcome-funded study that seeks to understand, address and improve the mental health of people living in low-middle-income countries (LMICs) such as Malawi. The project aims to work with people living with psychosis, local community members, health care providers and healthcare leaders to build on existing health services and initiatives to develop acceptable and sustainable psychosis detection systems and management pathways to improve awareness and health outcomes of people living with psychosis. The study will be conducted in southern and central Malawi.
Job Summary
- Employer: Kamuzu University of Health Sciences
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Salima, Malawi
- Category: Healthcare
- Salary: competitive salary package commensurate with the position
- Closing Date: 2026-09-11
Key Responsibilities
- Integrating closely with team members to develop a thorough understanding of relevant study procedures and processes.
- Taking responsibility for participant engagement and recruitment activities.
- Supporting focus group discussions and interviews, working in collaboration with the investigators to ensure smooth conduct, reflection and improvement.
- Helping to coordinate and arrange transcription and translation and ensure high quality, including undertaking some transcription and translation
- Conducting standardized interviews and assessments
- Training and supporting HSAs in the use of a psychosis detection and management manual
- Ensuring data security, including confidentiality and safe backup.
- Ensuring ethical conduct of research and support ethics governance, including documenting informed consent, and organising the protocol study file.
- Contribute to dissemination, knowledge exchange and public engagement activities as part of the research team.
- Data analysis, including coding and potential involvement in writing academic articles.
- Taking responsibility for organisational, budgetary and logistical tasks.
- Monitoring and communicating progress, maintaining workplan and ensuring timely completion of tasks.
Requirements
- A Bachelors degree in mental health, psychology, psychiatry or a similar discipline
- Experience of working in mental health as a clinician (Clinical officer/ nurse/ medical officer).
- Experience in quantitative and qualitative research, preferably including both interviews and the use of standardised scales
- Experience in managing fieldwork and a research project.
- Experience conducting health or social care-related research on sensitive subjects
- Sensitivity – developed through research experience – to cultural differences
- Ability to undertake research of a sensitive nature
- Ability to relate to people from a variety of backgrounds, including policymakers and community members
- Excellent communication skills, both written and verbal
- Excellent spoken and written English, Chichewa and Chitumbuka
- Excellent organisational and administrative skills, with great attention to detail.
- Ability to work in resource-constrained settings and efficient use of resources.
- Demonstrated commitment to and enthusiasm for a research career.
- Commitment and willingness to promote high-quality social science, ethical research practice and community engagement with research in Malawi
- To uphold the Kamuzu University of Health Science’s Motto: Excellence for Life.
Salary
competitive salary package commensurate with the position
How to Apply
About the Company
The Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS) is a public university in Malawi. It was created in 2019 by separating and then merging the College of Medicine and the Kamuzu College of Nursing from the University of Malawi. The Faculty of Medicine of KUHeS is the only medical school in Malawi.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for this role?
Applicants usually need a degree in a health-related field and a postgraduate qualification in public health or clinical research. Certification in Good Clinical Practice (GCP) is often a mandatory requirement for research roles in Malawi.
What are the day-to-day responsibilities of a Clinical Research Assistant?
Daily tasks typically include recruiting study participants, collecting clinical data, and ensuring ethical compliance. You will also be responsible for maintaining accurate patient records and coordinating with healthcare providers.
What are the typical benefits associated with a contract role at a health sciences institution?
Benefits generally include statutory pension contributions and annual leave as per Malawian labor laws. Medical aid and other allowances may vary depending on the specific terms of the contract.
What are the career progression opportunities after completing this contract?
Successful assistants often progress into roles such as Clinical Research Coordinator or Principal Investigator. This experience also provides a strong foundation for pursuing a PhD or specialized fellowships.
How should I apply, and what do Malawian employers prioritize in candidates?
Submit a tailored CV and cover letter highlighting your research experience and academic achievements. Employers prioritize candidates who demonstrate strong attention to detail and a commitment to medical ethics.