Social Science Research Assistant

Africa Health Research Institute

Job Location:

Durban - South Africa

Monthly Salary: Not Disclosed

Posted on: 10 hours ago

Vacancies: 1 Vacancy

Job Summary

Description:

The purpose of the Social Science Research Assistant is to collect qualitative data using various qualitative research methods including observations focus group discussions and in-depth interviews; to compile field notes and case summaries; to transcribe audio recordings and to translate scripts from IsiZulu to English; and to participate in coding and preliminary data analysis.

Overview of Duties:

Overview of duties

Recruit study participants
Conduct informed consent process with participants
Schedule prepare and conduct in-depth interviews and focus group discussions
Record in-depth interviews and focus group discussions.
Reimburse participants.
Compile field notes and case summaries.
Maintain accurate data collection records.
Transcribe and translate in-depth interviews and focus group discussions.
Attend training and debriefing sessions.
Participate in development of coding framework in thematic coding of data and in preparation of thematic summaries.
Facilitate and/participate in Public Engagement activities.

Minimum Qualifications

An undergraduate degree in the field of Social Science
Minimum of 3 years experience in qualitative data collection with emphasis on mixed methods
Excellent proficiency in English and isiZulu (verbal and written)
A valid Drivers Licence

Minimum Experience

At least 3 years experience in qualitative data collection using various methods including observations focus group discussion or in-depth interviews;

Knowledge and Abilities

Strong data entry skills using computer software packages;
Knowledge of HIV and of other long-term conditions health issues;
Ability to prioritise work and manage deadlines and be able to make progress with minimal supervision
Reliable diligent detail-oriented worker who can see tasks through to completion Accurate honest dependable and flexible
Ability to maintain confidentiality handle and protect sensitive data with integrity Capacity and flexibility to learn new research methods and work routines

Advantageous

Previous experience working at AHRI
Experience in clinical trials will be an added advantage

Skills Required

High personal motivation and self-management
Confident communicator who can work comfortably with diverse groups of people
Ability to prioritise work and manage deadlines and make progress with minimal supervision
Time Management
Reliable diligent detail-oriented worker who can see tasks through to completion
Problem solving
Organisational and record keeping
Accurate honest dependable and flexible
Ability to maintain confidentiality and handle and protect sensitive data with integrity
Capacity and flexibility to learn new research methods and work routines

Worker Type:

Employee

The application closing date:

28 Feb 2026

Please note that only shortlisted candidates will be contacted kindly consider your application as unsuccessful if you do not hear from us within 14 days of the application closing date.

Required Experience:

Junior IC

Description: The purpose of the Social Science Research Assistant is to collect qualitative data using various qualitative research methods including observations focus group discussions and in-depth interviews; to compile field notes and case summaries; to transcribe audio recordings and to transla...