Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
Hours: Full Time
Reports to: Chief of Staff/ Chief Medical Officer - Africa Clinical Research Network
Our Mission:
The African Clinical Research Network (ACRN) is an African-led and African-driven clinical research organisation. Our work not only promotes and supports a vibrant life sciences ecosystem but also profoundly impacts Africa's health and economic development. By facilitating sustainable, innovative, collaborative, and community-oriented research, ACRN is poised to transform healthcare and improve lives across Africa, inspiring a new era of clinical research.
We provide high-quality data, harmonise regulatory processes to improve timelines, support capacity building within the existing ethics and regulatory systems, and enhance community trust and research participation. These are some of the first key steps to making Africa more competitive in the global life sciences industry, a goal we are proud to contribute to.
The ACRN drives clinical research excellence by connecting researchers to opportunities, enhancing research capacity in existing facilities, implementing high-quality trials and research, and leveraging a robust digital infrastructure.
We are committed to fostering the community's understanding of research. Through our community engagement network, we significantly increase stakeholder buy-in of clinical results, thereby enhancing the transparency and credibility of our research.
Job Summary:
We are seeking an experienced Medical Officer/ Clinical Scientist with a background in interventional studies and a strong interest in research to join our clinical team. The ideal candidate will hold an MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) degree and have at least 5 years of experience in clinical practice, with proven involvement in interventional clinical research. Candidates with previous experience in a Contract Research Organization (CRO) or those who have a natural inclination towards clinical research will be highly preferred.
Key Responsibilities:
Clinical Management:
Provide high-quality clinical care to patients and oversee day-to-day medical services within the organization.
Conduct physical examinations, diagnose conditions, and implement treatment plans in accordance with best medical practices.
Collaborate with other healthcare professionals to ensure comprehensive patient care.
Research and Interventional Study Involvement:
Lead and participate in interventional studies and clinical trials within the organization.
Provide medical oversight for research protocols, ensuring patient safety and compliance with research guidelines.
Assist in the design, development, and execution of research studies, particularly those involving interventional therapies.
Liaise with research teams, monitor study progress, and ensure adherence to Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and regulatory standards.
Data Collection and Analysis:
Collaborate with clinical research teams to collect, manage, and analyze clinical data from ongoing studies.
Ensure the accuracy and completeness of data collection, in accordance with research protocols and ethical standards.
Contribute to the development of study reports, publications, and presentations based on research outcomes.
Regulatory Compliance:
Ensure that all clinical and research activities comply with local and international regulatory requirements.
Maintain up-to-date knowledge of changes in clinical trial regulations and guidelines and apply them to ongoing studies.
Prepare for and participate in audits, ensuring all documentation and procedures are in place.
Team Collaboration and Leadership:
Work closely with multidisciplinary teams, including physicians, nurses, and researchers, to ensure the successful implementation of medical interventions.
Train and mentor junior staff members in both clinical and research procedures.
Provide leadership in the conduct of clinical trials and maintain regular communication with the clinical research team, sponsors, and regulatory bodies.
Requirements
Qualifications:
Education: MBChB (Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery) from a recognized institution (required).
Experience:
At least 3 years of clinical practice experience, with a strong emphasis on interventional studies or clinical trials.
Previous experience in a Contract Research Organization (CRO) or in conducting clinical research is highly desirable.
Experience with patient care in both hospital and research environments.
Skills and Competencies:
Strong knowledge of clinical research methodologies and interventional study design.
Familiarity with Good Clinical Practice (GCP), ethical standards in research, and clinical trial regulations.
Excellent analytical and problem-solving skills, with attention to detail.
Strong communication and interpersonal skills, with the ability to collaborate effectively with cross-functional teams.
Proficiency in using electronic medical records (EMR) and clinical data management software.
Desired Attributes:
Commitment to patient care and a passion for clinical research.
Strong leadership and team management skills.
Ability to work in a fast-paced, dynamic research environment.
Enthusiasm for advancing medical knowledge through clinical research.
Work Environment:
This position can be based in Zimbabwe, with occasional travel to other office locations as necessary. The role may require flexible working hours to support remote teams and ensure systems are running smoothly across time zones.
Please apply online providing a covering letter specifically highlighting how your existing skills and experiences support fulfilling the responsibilities of this role.
