Job Title: Social Scientist
About this Job:
The MRC/UVRI Uganda Research Unit on AIDS is a centre of excellence in HIV/AIDS related research. It conducts large-scale epidemiological and intervention studies, clinical trials, virological and immunological research and behavioural studies, and has generated a wealth of research results that have been used to inform policy and practice, and that have led to a large number of scientific publications in peer reviewed journals over time. The Unit is integrated into the Uganda Virus Research Institute (UVRI) in Entebbe.
The Social Science Programme conducts social and behavioural research. It performs investigations that help to understand and interpret the results of clinical and epidemiological studies as well as HIV intervention trials, but has also its own anthropological and behavioural programme of work. It is staffed with one senior and three junior social scientists and a team of interviewers and field workers. Funds for the employment of an experienced social scientist at PhD level to work under the direction of the social science programme head are available.
The holder of the position will participate in the implementation of a research portfolio of social science studies in the context of HIV infection and related chronic diseases in Uganda. He/she will work closely with the Head of Programme, Prof Janet Seeley, with scientists based in other programmes of the Unit, including the epidemiological and prevention programme, the HIV care programme, the basic science programme and with colleagues from collaborating academic institutions. Current activities of the programme are mainly based in Entebbe, at two sites of Masaka/Kalungu districts about 120 kms from Entebbe, and in Kampala.
The post holder will continue with ongoing research, but will also have an opportunity to develop a programme of research related to his/her own interests within the frame of the Unit’s disease focus. Whilst the 50% of the programme is funded until 2017, he/she will be expected to prepare new grant applications to secure additional funding for the programme. The post holder will be responsible for the timely publication of research results in collaboration with other staff of the Unit. He/she will participate in the development of the research capacity of the junior socials scientists including PhD students.
Requirement:
The successful candidate will have a PhD degree or equivalent in social science or a related field. He/she will have at least 3 years of professional experience in social science research both scientifically and managerially, using both qualitative and quantitative research techniques. He/she will have a track record of relevant research publications in peer-reviewed journals, with a focus on HIV infection and AIDS. The successful applicant will have experience in grant application and implementation. He/she will experience in working with a multidisciplinary team of scientists and other staff. Experience in postgraduate teaching and in the training of junior scientists including PhD students is desirable. Good interpersonal, organizational and communication skills are also essential, as are excellent knowledge of written and spoken English, and working experience in developing countries, particularly in sub-Saharan Africa. Experience in working with rural populations and high- risk behaviour groups will be an added advantage. The post holder will need frequently to visit field stations and rural activities
How to apply:
For displaced staff the package will also include generous overseas allowances, furnished accommodation, flights and other benefits. The post will be for initially 3 years extendable by mutual agreement. Benefits include a flexible pay and reward policy, excellent holiday entitlement, MRC final salary pension scheme. Applications are handled by the RCUK Shared Services Centre; to apply please visit our job board at https://ext.ssc.rcuk.ac.uk and complete an online application form. We want to make our application process as easy for you as we possibly can. If you experience any problems in applying for this job, or have any feedback for us about the application process, please contact our Recruitment Hotline on +44-1793 867406 (8.00am – 7.00pm Monday to Friday and 9.00am – 1.00pm Saturday). Please quote the appropriate IRC reference number when calling. Closing date: 23 March 2012
The MRC is an Equal Opportunities Employer
Final appointments will be subject to a pre employment screening
