Medical Officer – Clinical Research (SENTINEL‑01)

About the role

The Allergy and Immunology Unit at the University of Cape Town Lung Institute is looking for a Medical Officer to lead the SENTINEL‑01 study site in Masiphumelele. This full‑time, community‑based position supports a Wellcome Trust‑funded observational study of environmental impacts on asthma in children aged 6 to 15 years. The role requires flexible hours, including occasional evenings and weekends, and involves direct interaction with participants in their homes.

Key responsibilities

• Lead participant recruitment, screening and enrolment within the Masiphumelele and Ocean View communities.
• Conduct clinical assessments at participants’ homes, including spirometry, structured symptom reviews and paediatric blood draws.
• Supervise a team of one nurse and two community health workers, providing day‑to‑day clinical oversight.
• Identify and report adverse events and protocol deviations in line with GCP standards.
• Maintain accurate data entry and clinical documentation to GCP quality.
• Engage with local clinics, schools and community stakeholders to support study activities.
• Drive the study vehicle independently to field sites.

Required profile

• MBChB degree and registration with the Health Professions Council of South Africa (HPCSA).
• Valid South African driver’s licence.
• GCP certification.
• Paediatric clinical experience, including comfort with blood draws.
• Research or clinical trial experience as a sub‑investigator.
• Excellent communication, interpersonal and organisational skills.
• Ability to work autonomously and as part of a multidisciplinary team.

Required skills

• GCP certification
• Spirometry
• Paediatric blood draws

What we offer

• Full‑time (40 hours/week) fixed‑term contract for 12 months.
• Opportunity to lead a high‑impact, Wellcome Trust‑funded study.
• Community‑focused research environment with strong stakeholder engagement.
• Study vehicle provided for field work.