Are you a registered nurse looking for an exciting career opportunity in the healthcare research field? The University of Cape Town (UCT) is offering a Research Nurse position based at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital in KwaZulu Natal. This one-year contract offers a chance to work closely with experts in the field of paediatric neurosurgery and make a significant impact on the lives of young patients dealing with complex medical conditions such as tuberculous meningitis.
Research Nurse Job Overview
The Neurosciences Institute (NI) at UCT’s Faculty of Health Sciences is seeking applications for a Research Nurse to join their dynamic paediatric neurosurgery research program. This program is not only aimed at improving clinical services for children but also focuses on generating research that can shape the future of healthcare for young neuro-patients.
The successful candidate will work under the guidance of Professor Anthony Figaji, Head of Paediatric Neurosurgery at the Red Cross War Memorial Children’s Hospital in Cape Town, and Dr Basil Enicker, Head of Neurosurgery at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital. Though the position is funded by UCT, the role is based at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital in KwaZulu Natal, with daily reporting to Dr Enicker.
Key Responsibilities
The Research Nurse will be responsible for supporting research activities across multiple projects within the Paediatric Neurosurgery Units. The duties include, but are not limited to:
- Conducting clinical observations and procedures as per research protocols.
- Recruiting study participants and obtaining informed consent from guardians and assent from child participants.
- Collecting, labelling, processing, storing, and transporting biological samples to Cape Town.
- Recording and transcribing research data into case report forms.
- Managing participant records and coordinating follow-up visits.
- Assisting with routine medical procedures such as phlebotomy.
- Liaising with the clinical research teams in Cape Town and Durban.
- Communicating daily clinic progress to Study Coordinators.
This role requires flexibility, as the nurse will need to be available for overtime and night shifts depending on the clinical environment’s demands.
Minimum Requirements
- National Diploma in Nursing (a Nursing Degree would be advantageous).
- Registration with the South African Nursing Council (SANC).
- A minimum of two years’ nursing experience.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite.
- Strong written and verbal communication skills in English.
- A valid driver’s license and reliable transport are essential.
- Excellent organizational skills and attention to detail.
- Strong interpersonal skills with a patient-centric approach.
- Bilingual communication skills in Zulu, Xhosa, or Afrikaans are highly desirable.
Additional Advantages
- Previous clinical research experience.
- Experience working with paediatric patients.
- Familiarity with neuro-patients and neurological research.
- A certification in Good Clinical Practice (GCP).
- Knowledge of Microdialysis monitoring.
- Experience using RedCap software for research data management.
Why Join the University of Cape Town?
Working at UCT provides a unique opportunity to be part of a world-renowned institution dedicated to research and healthcare excellence. This position offers a chance to work with some of South Africa’s leading experts in paediatric neurosurgery and contribute to ground breaking research that could change the lives of countless young patients.
Compensation
The annual cost of employment ranges between R 262,162 and R 488,741, depending on the candidate’s qualifications and experience. Please note that relocation costs are not covered for this position.
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How to Apply
To apply, candidates must submit the following documents as a single PDF file to Dr Jill Combrinck at j.combrinck@uct.ac.za:
- UCT Application Form (Download at UCT Application Form).
- Cover Letter.
- Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Please ensure the job title and reference number (E24919) are included in the subject line of your application email. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
- Closing Date: 04 October 2024.
- Contact Number: 021 658 5982.
- UCT Website: www.hr.uct.ac.za
UCT is committed to promoting diversity and inclusion in the workplace and encourages applications from under-represented groups as part of its Employment Equity Plan. The university aims to create a diverse and inclusive environment that respects the dignity and rights of all individuals.
The Research Nurse vacancy at the University of Cape Town, based at the Inkosi Albert Luthuli Central Hospital in KwaZulu Natal, is an exceptional opportunity for registered nurses looking to advance their careers in clinical research. This role not only offers a chance to work alongside some of South Africa’s most distinguished medical professionals in paediatric neurosurgery but also allows the successful candidate to be at the forefront of impactful research that can shape the future of paediatric healthcare.