The University of Cape Town (Department of Paediatrics and Child Health) is inviting applications for 5 Research Assistant positions.
This is a full-time role (37.5 hours per week) offered on a 1-year fixed-term contract, with potential for extension based on funding availability.
Application Deadline: January 7, 2025
Job Purpose
The primary purpose of the Research Assistant position is to assist in the collection of data related to various studies within the department. The role involves collaboration with the research team, healthcare professionals, and study participants to ensure accurate and timely data collection while adhering to ethical guidelines.
Studies Overview
- Genetic Characterization of ADHD in Kenyan and South African Populations (‘Akili’):
- Funded by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH).
- Aims to recruit and phenotype a cohort of 6,000 children aged 6-17 years across Nairobi and Cape Town.
- Socioemotional Prediction in Adverse Contexts with EEG:
- Funded by the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation (BMGF).
- Focuses on identifying predictive EEG markers of neurodevelopment in mother-child dyads.
- Longitudinal Mapping of Brain-Face-Behavior Trajectories in Prenatal Alcohol Exposure:
- Funded by NIH-NIAAA.
- Investigates brain development impacts from prenatal alcohol exposure from birth through adolescence.
Requirements
- Education: Undergraduate qualification in Psychology or related discipline.
- Experience:
- At least 1 year working with children and caregivers.
- Minimum 6 months collecting data for clinical research.
- Skills:
- Understanding of psychometric or qualitative assessment tools specific to pediatric research.
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (fluent in English and either isiXhosa or Afrikaans).
- Strong attention to detail, ability to work independently and collaboratively, and understanding cultural differences.
Responsibilities
- Administrative Support: Manage participant schedules and ensure timely administration of questionnaires.
- Data Collection: Conduct procedures according to study protocols, including EEGs, brain scans, and administering questionnaires.
- Participant Recruitment: Assist in recruiting eligible participants while adhering to inclusion/exclusion criteria.
- Data Management: Accurately enter and maintain collected data, perform quality checks, and ensure compliance with ethical guidelines.
Salary
The annual cost of employment ranges from R169,517 – R312,098.
Application Process
To apply, please email the following documents as a single PDF file to [email protected]:
- UCT Application Form (downloadable here)
- Cover letter
- Two referee reports
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Incomplete applications will be regarded as such, and only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not hear back by February 28, 2025, please consider your application unsuccessful.