Post Doctoral Research Associate (Social Science And Health Systems)

Introduction

The Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Programme (MLW) is a world-class health research institution committed to improving health through research, capacity building, and strong partnerships.

The Social Science and Health Systems (SSHS) theme at the Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Research Programme (MW) conducts multi-disciplinary social science and health systems research to improve health. It also serves as a platform for training excellent researchers who can effectively apply social science and health systems theory and methods.

SSHS research at MLW aims to improve health interventions and health outcomes through a better understanding of local knowledge, people’s actions and social interactions, and the context – mainly in Malawi, but also in other countries. The theme has four thematic areas that cover research on 1) the social dimensions of health and illness; 2) people’s interactions with health care and technologies; 3) healthcare practice, policies and systems; and 4) community engagement and ethical and safeguarding issues in research.

The Malawi–Liverpool–Wellcome Programme (MLW) is seeking to hire a Post Doctoral Research Associate (PDRA) who shall be based within the Social Science and Health Systems (SHSS) department and reporting to the Principal Investigator (PI).

POSITION FUNCTION (PURPOSE)

The aim of the PDRA is to support the SSHS theme in conducting research on a range of projects across the four thematic areas, in collaboration with other themes and research groups at MLW. In addition, the post will assist the theme in their efforts acquiring new research grants, based on the theme strategy.

KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES / RESPONSIBILITIES

• Lead study conceptualisation, primary and secondary data collection and analysis, report writing, and quality assurance.
• Publish research findings in peer reviewed academic journals and develop other outputs as part of research communications strategies.
• Assist with grant proposals on social science and health systems research.
• Assist with and participate in the production and dissemination of research outputs.
• Contribute research ideas and actively participate in the planning of research activity and activities, such as journal club meetings, trainings, and theme meetings of the SSHS theme.
• Supervising and providing capacity strengthening for junior researchers and research assistants.
• Ensure the accurate communication of data to colleagues and partners.
• The post-holder will be encouraged to develop their research interests and capacity within the context of their contracted responsibilities.

QUALIFICATIONS: (i.e. Education, Training and Experience Requirements).

Education

• PhD in Health or Health-related social science discipline.

Experience

• Experience in designing research, applying for ethical approval, conducting robust literature reviews, carrying out qualitative data collection field work, and analysis of data sets. Quantitative skills are an asset.
• Ability to work in multidisciplinary teams of social scientists, biostatisticians and experts in clinical medicine.
• Experience in grant writing and record of successful grant acquisition.
• Track record of academic publications in peer reviewed journals demonstrating strong writing skills.

KEY COMPENTENCIES / ATTRBUTES AND SKILLS (e.g. Skills, Personality, Communication, Teamwork etc)

• Professional level of English as well as Chichewa.
• Knowledge and behaviours that support equality, diversity and inclusive practice.
• Knowledge and behaviours that support safeguarding as applicable to the role.
• Excellent skills for producing academic products including ability to write clearly.
• Capable of generating critical insights from research.
• Good organisational abilities.
• Strong communication skills.
• Ability to work with a range of people from different backgrounds and disciplines.
• Adaptable to changing priorities.
• Ability to work independently as well as in a team.

REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS

MLW offers an attractive remuneration package which includes a competitive salary package commensurate with the position, a medical aid scheme, 24-hour insurance cover, pension scheme, gratuity benefits redeemable at the end of each contract cycle, among others.

MLW also offers opportunities such as scholarships, upgrading and training opportunities to employees. These are based on successful job performance and other set criteria.

Applications should be received not later than 20th March 2026. Those interested should submit their application and a detailed CV with three traceable referees (including at least two professional referees) to vacancies@mlw.mw. All documents should be submitted in one pdf file with subject line clearly indicating the position being applied for i.e. POST DOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE – SOCIAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH SYSTEMS

MLW recognizes its responsibility in safeguarding and protecting communities, research participants and patients with whom MLW is working. Please note that successful candidates will be requested to undergo a safeguarding check prior to appointment and at regular time points during employment.

ONLY SHORT-LISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED.