Research Data Manager (Fixed-Term Contract)

About the role

The Desmond Tutu Health Foundation (DTHF), a non-profit focused on HIV and related infection research, treatment, training and prevention in Southern Africa, is hiring a Research Data Manager for a one-year fixed-term contract based in Woodstock, Cape Town, supporting East London. The role manages and coordinates all data activities for various studies, including database development, data capture, validation and quality control.

Key responsibilities

• Institutionalise high-quality data collection, management and quality assurance systems for current studies and ARV databases using REDCap and other platforms
• Develop and implement real-time data quality assurance processes and procedures
• Clean data, log data queries and prepare data for analysis by overseas and South African investigators
• Support the design of integrated data systems for sharing with research partners
• Work with the project lead and project manager to build data management and quality assurance plans, including progress monitoring tools
• Develop and automate statistical dashboards and prepare analytic datasets for the principal investigator and managers
• Supervise research assistants and fieldworkers, train them and ensure data is collected according to the quality management plan
• Manage staff, oversee database quality and attend project management meetings

Required profile

• Undergraduate degree in medicine, science, biology, statistics, computer science or a related field
• At least 2 years of experience managing databases in a research environment
• At least 2 years of demonstrable experience building and managing complex data collection tools in REDCap (detail in cover letter)
• At least 1 year of supervisory and staff management experience
• Good Clinical Practice (GCP) certificate and a valid Code 8 driver's licence
• Ability to work independently

Required skills

• Proficiency in MS Excel and Access, including designing databases and resolving data queries
• Advantageous: statistical packages such as STATA, SPSS, SAS or R, and knowledge of HIV and ART

Applicants must submit a detailed cover letter, an updated CV, a certified copy of their highest qualification and two current contactable referees by 14 August 2026; only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.