Scientific Director
EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY
Position Title: SCIENTIFIC DIRECTOR
The Macha Research Trust (MRT) is an internationally recognized health research organization based at Macha Mission Hospital, Choma District, Zambia. The institute currently conducts basic and applied research to address relevant health issues, particularly infectious diseases such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, influenza, and other respiratory and childhood infections. MRT seeks to recruit a suitably qualified candidate to fill the position of Scientific Director. This is a full-time, two-year (24 months) contract position, with the possibility of renewal contingent upon performance and the availability of funds.
JOB TITLE: SCIENTIFIC DIRECTOR
REPORTS TO: Managing Director and Project Principal Investigators (PIs)
JOB PURPOSE: Provide effective scientific leadership of Macha Research Trust. Detailed roles and responsibilities include:
A. Collaborate and communicate the scientific mission and vision of MRT with local, national, and international authorities, donors, and other scientists.
B. Develop and implement own research programmes at MRT, including grant writing, working towards helping to ‘grow’ the institute
C. Work directly with MRT administration as an integral part of the management team, with emphasis on providing scientific direction and leadership for the organization.
D. Assist in the development, supervision, and mentorship of MRT research staff.
E. Coordinate and facilitate field and laboratory research for project researchers, faculty, and students while they are at Macha.
F. Supervise and oversee the daily duties of staff working on various scientific projects.
G. Ensure a conducive, safe and productive laboratory and research environment by carrying out research projects in strict adherence to SOPs, GCP and GLP guidelines.
H. Coordinate regular laboratory and research meetings, organize other scientific meetings.
I. Liaise with the project Principal Investigators on the various research projects being carried out at MRT.
J. Attend national and external scientific and other meetings as and when required for presentations and to represent MRT.
K. Fully engage and participate in the registration process and development of Macha Research Trust University (MRTU).
L. The Scientific Director will work closely with the Managing Director, Administrative Director, Senior Administrative Advisor, Chief Finance Officer, Principal Investigators, Senior Entomologist, and Project Coordinators at MRT in ensuring compliance with the necessary procedures for grant fund use and expenditure, as well as maintaining compliance with relevant Zambian government laws and regulations and internationally recognized research ethics considerations.
QUALIFICATIONS AND OTHER REQUIREMENTS:
a) Full Grade 12 School Certificate with a minimum of five O-level credits, including English and Mathematics
b) Bachelor’s Degree in health sciences, veterinary medicine, biomedical sciences, laboratory sciences, molecular biology, microbiology, or equivalent
c) Master’s Degree in health sciences, veterinary medicine, biomedical sciences, laboratory sciences, molecular biology, microbiology, or equivalent
d) PhD in a relevant scientific field (e.g., Biomedical Science, Veterinary Medicine, Molecular Biology, Microbiology, etc.)
e) Must have a valid practicing license from the appropriate professional body
f) Verified or proof of submission for verification of academic certificates to the Zambia Qualifications Authority (ZAQA)
MINIMUM RELEVANT EXPERIENCE
a) Experience and training in the administration of research programs/projects
b) Experience in managing busy laboratories
c) Proven track record in scientific and grant writing or contributing towards resource mobilization will be an added advantage
d) Experience working in academia and the health sector in Zambia will be an added advantage
e) Preference will be given to an African National, with Zambian citizens given priority.
f) Willingness to live in rural Zambia
APPLYING FOR THE JOB
Interested persons should submit their application letter, copies of certified academic qualifications, national registration card, and a current résumé, preferably by email to:
The Manager, Human Resources
Re: Scientific Director
Macha Research Trust
P.O. Box 630166
Choma, Zambia
E-mail: apply@macharesearch.org (include in subject line: Re: Scientific Director)
The closing date for receipt of applications is Friday, 15 August, 2025.