The Adult Malaria Reduction Intervention Trial (AMRI), which will recruit participants in 2025, is a malaria vaccine trial in adults in Sierra Leone to establish the safety and immunogenicity of two vaccine components. It is led by the Centre for Global Health Research (CGHR, www.cghr.org), a research organization associated with the University of Toronto and St Michael’s Hospital. CGHR’s mission is to lead high-quality public health research that advances global health for all, with particular attention to the world’s poorest populations. In close partnership with Njala University (https://njala.edu.sl/school-community-health-sciences) and the National Public Health Agency (NPHA, https://www.npha.gov.sl/), CGHR is recruiting an experienced professional for the role of AMRI Program Coordinator. AMRI works in close collaboration with the Healthy-Sierra Leone (HEAL-SL, https://healsl.org/) nationwide mortality platform (earlier called Countrywide Mortality Surveillance for Action).
The successful applicant will enjoy an excellent benefits package, and collegial, supportive work environment. The position is based in Bo, Sierra Leone and travel as needed for discussions with program partners. This position works closely with key stakeholders from Sierra Leone’s Ministry of Health (MOH). The position reports to Professor Rashid Ansumana, Njala University, Bo Campus.
JOB RESPONSIBILITIES
The Program Coordinator will manage a survey team of 40 current HEAL-SL staff, including training in AMRI-specific procedures. They will ensure adherence to AMRI protocols and solve operational problems in fieldwork. The Program Coordinator will oversee the following stages of project work: participant recruitment, retention of the participant cohort, follow-up according to the prescribed schedule, monitoring for adverse events, and other aspects. Previous experience in field trials in an African setting is a desirable asset.
Meticulous attention to detail and quality of fieldwork, paired with clear communication and an ability to solve field problems are the key skills sought for this post. The position will coordinate closely with the National Coordinator for HEAL-SL, the National Laboratory Manager, and other senior positions.
QUALIFICATIONS
- Advanced university degree, preferably in health or related field
- 10+ years of professional work experience at national and international levels in field epidemiology, randomized trials (preferred), and infectious disease epidemiology and monitoring, including international work experience and fieldwork experience
- Strong skills in enabling country-led leadership, including attention to stakeholder alliances, and to technical training of survey staff
- Practical experience running randomized trials
- Basic knowledge of malaria epidemiology
- Able to manage multiple priorities
- Strong documentation and organizational skills
- Excellent communication skills and the ability to clearly explain technical concepts to non-technical individuals
- Team-oriented and goal-focused
- Be able to work independently with minimum supervision
- Fluency in English is required
TERM AND COMPENSATION
- Compensation will be commensurate with experience
- The AMRI trial is funded for two years
- This position will be for one year, renewable for one additional
- Start date is immediate
Please submit your cover letter, resume/CV, and three contact details for referees, by Friday 20th of December to: venus.jaraba@unityhealth.to.
Please quote “AMRI Program Coordinator Sierra Leone” in the subject line.
