Research Coordinator Reproductive Health in Adolescent Girls in Sub-Saharan Africa: The Rhasa Project

Research Coordinator

Reproductive Health in Adolescent Girls in Sub-Saharan Africa: The Rhasa Project

Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU)

We have an exciting and challenging vacancy for a Research Coordinator to join the scientific team working on the Reproductive Health in Adolescent Girls in Sub-Saharan Africa (RHASA) project. The post holder will be based in Mwanza, Tanzania, and will be part of a collaborative team conducting research on the epidemiology of reproductive tract infections and acceptability of research in young girls in Mwanza region. 

Prevalence and incidence of HIV infection and other sexually transmitted infections (STI) are particularly high among young adolescent girls in Africa. The reasons why girls are so vulnerable to these infections, especially in the period following sexual debut, is poorly understood. We also need to understand what factors are important in encouraging the participation of adolescent girls in studies that are exploring ways to prevent these infections. A two year research study will be conducted in Mwanza city, NW Tanzania, to characterize the reproductive health and the vaginal environment in 400 girls aged 17-18 years through a cross-sectional study of sexual behaviour, intravaginal practices and the vaginal microbiome pre- and post-sexual debut. Qualitative research on individual, parental and community factors and barriers that influence the participation of adolescent girls in research studies will also be undertaken. This interdisciplinary project will be conducted by the Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU) of the National Institute for Medical Research (NIMR) in Mwanza, Tanzania, the Institute of Tropical Medicine in Antwerp (ITM), Belgium and the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM) in the UK. The research team comprises clinical epidemiologists, laboratory scientists and qualitative researchers. 

Ideal applicants will have a postgraduate qualification in public health or epidemiology. The appointment will commence in early 2013 for a period of 20 months (subject to satisfactory performance). The appointment will be made on the Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU) attractive salary scale for Project Coordinators, subject to qualifications and experience.  

The primary responsibility of the Study Coordinator will be to manage the RHASA project in Tanzania. 

If you would like to receive further details about the research activity at MITU, please send an email torecruitment@mitu.or.tz 

Mode of application: email to: recruitment@mitu.or.tz via the Apply button below.

Applications should include: 

• Letter of application with details of how you meet the essential and desirable criteria and your reasons for wanting to join MITU.
• Please include a daytime mobile telephone number and e-mail contact details.
• Curriculum vitae (CV) including names and addresses of three referees (two must be from your most recent employers).
• Copies of all relevant certificates and memberships and qualifications.

Closing date for applications 

• Applications received later than 15 January will not be considered.
• You will be informed by email if you are selected for interview.
• Interviews will be held on 23 and 24 January 2013 at the NIMR Mwanza Centre, Isamilo, Mwanza and may be conducted by telephone or Skype if necessary. 

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