Medical Officer – HIV Prevention Research Site (Fixed-Term)

About the role

The Desmond Tutu Health Foundation (DTHF) is a non-profit focused on research, treatment, training and prevention of HIV and related infections in Southern Africa. This is a 24-month fixed-term contract for a Medical Officer at the Philippi Village Research Site. The main purpose is to provide efficient and effective clinical care to participants in research studies and to support nurses.

Key responsibilities

• Clinically assess, examine, diagnose and manage the health of participants
• Prescribe pharmaceuticals appropriately
• Monitor clinical examinations and procedures carried out by Research Nurses when necessary
• Administer and remove contraceptive implants or intrauterine devices
• Manage accountability and adherence monitoring of study drugs
• Refer participants to other clinical care as required
• Recruit, screen and enrol participants according to protocol-specific inclusion and exclusion criteria
• Obtain informed consent for all participants as per Standard Operating Procedures
• Ensure all research activities follow the protocol, UCT HREC, SAHPRA, Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and other relevant guidelines and legislation
• Document procedures and investigations, assist with study documentation for audits, monitoring visits and site visits, and transcribe study records with quality control
• Attend clinical, research and management meetings and consult with other clinical and research staff

Required profile

• MBChB degree and registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa as an independent practitioner
• At least 2 years' experience as a medical officer after community service
• At least 1 year of experience as a medical officer in clinical trials in HIV prevention and sexual and reproductive health
• Valid Good Clinical Practice certificate; valid BLS certificate (ACLS preferred)
• Ability to take histories, examine participants, prescribe medication, follow up blood results, perform pelvic exams and sample collection, and manage common conditions per local guidelines
• Willingness to work flexible hours and on Saturdays if necessary

Required skills

• Strong written and verbal communication
• Excellent computer skills: email, Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint
• Attention to detail, strong administrative skills and ability to meet deadlines
• Teamwork, good interpersonal skills and willingness to support Research Nurses

Applications require a detailed cover letter, an updated CV, a certified copy of the highest qualification and two current contactable referees by 17 November 2026; foreign nationals must attach a work permit. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.