OVERVIEW

Malawi University of Science and Technology (MUST) is seeking a suitably qualified and experienced professional to join the Global Injury Group (GIG) Research Project.

The Qualitative Health Researcher will lead and support the design, implementation and analysis of qualitative research within musculoskeletal (MSK) injury and health systems studies. The role will generate evidence on patient, healthcare provider and health-system experiences of injury care through interviews, focus groups and observational research. The successful candidate will also coordinate fieldwork, ensure rigorous and ethical data collection and management, and work with multidisciplinary and international research partners.

Project: Global Injury Group (GIG) Research Project

Reports to: Principal Investigator

KEY REQUIREMENTS

• Bachelor's Degree in Sociology, Psychology, Anthropology, Health Services Research, Public Health, Health Sciences, Social Sciences or another relevant discipline.
• Master's Degree in a discipline relevant to qualitative research.
• At least 3 years' experience in qualitative health research.
• Proven experience leading qualitative data collection and analysis.
• Experience organising research visits, fieldwork and interviews.
• Experience engaging research participants and arranging logistics for fieldwork.
• Experience transcribing qualitative interviews and/or focus groups.
• Experience producing written research reports.
• Experience conducting observational fieldwork, including using observation checklists and developing fieldnotes.
• Experience coding qualitative data and developing themes or categories.
• Experience working collaboratively within multidisciplinary research teams.
• Knowledge of qualitative health research methodologies, including interviews, focus groups and observational methods.
• Knowledge of qualitative data analysis approaches such as coding and thematic analysis.
• Understanding of ethical principles and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) in health research.
• Understanding of observational research methods.
• Strong organisational and time-management skills.
• Excellent written communication skills in English.
• Ability to work independently and demonstrate initiative and problem-solving skills.
• Ability and willingness to travel to research sites.
• Ability to produce clear and accurate research reports.
• Ability to contribute effectively to team meetings and lead meetings when required.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES

• Organise research visits, interviews and observational fieldwork.
• Engage potential research participants, including patients with musculoskeletal injuries, family members, carers and healthcare professionals.
• Conduct qualitative interviews, focus groups and observational fieldwork.
• Translate and transcribe audio recordings in accordance with study protocols.
• Anonymise transcriptions and observational fieldnotes and maintain appropriate records.
• Analyse qualitative data using established approaches, including thematic analysis.
• Contribute to the preparation of articles for peer-reviewed journals.
• Present research findings to colleagues and other stakeholders.
• Organise and maintain research data in accordance with institutional and NIHR Global Health Group policies.
• Ensure study records and research outputs are properly produced and maintained.
• Participate in regular meetings with the in-country and wider international study team.
• Attend in-person meetings where circumstances permit.
• Contribute to the interpretation of research findings within a multidisciplinary team.

CONTRACT AND REMUNERATION

The successful candidate will be engaged on a renewable contract subject to satisfactory performance, MUST's Performance Management System, evolving job requirements and availability of donor funding. Remuneration will be based on MUST's prevailing rates for research projects.

HOW TO APPLY

Interested candidates should submit:

• Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• Copies of academic qualifications
• Copies of professional qualifications

Applications should be submitted through the MUST Careers website: careers.must.ac.mw

Applications may also be addressed to:

By Post:

The University Registrar

Malawi University of Science and Technology

P.O. Box 5196

Limbe, Malawi

Application Deadline: Friday, 21st August 2026

Only shortlisted applicants will be acknowledged.

Note: MUST has a zero-tolerance policy on sexual exploitation and abuse, and successful applicants will be required to comply with the University's Prevention of Sexual Exploitation and Abuse Policy.