Malaria Alert Centre (MAC) is a university research centre at Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS) working on research to address priority global health problems such as malaria, HIV/AIDS, maternal and child health, neglected tropical diseases and other communicable diseases. With funding from the European Union, MAC will implement a study titled, "Advancing child-friendly artesunate-amodiaquine taste mask coated micro pellets to combat the threat of artemisinin resistant malaria in Africa (or ASAQ-PAC)" over the next three years. The project is a collaboration between MAC of KUHeS, Oxford University (UK), Hertfordshire University (UK), Fluid Pharma (UK) and Clinsearch (France).

To undertake the study, the Centre urgently needs the services of a Research Scientist to be based in Blantyre.

POSITION SUMMARY

The Research Scientist will lead the gametocyte assessments and transmission studies.

Duration of Contract: The contract will be for one year with possibility of further extension based on performance and availability of funding.

Reporting Line: The Research Scientist will be reporting to the Principal Investigator.

KEY DUTIES AND RESPONSIBILITIES

• Being familiar with the study protocol and deliverables.
• Develop SOPs and CRFs for gametocyte screening and transmission experiments.
• Establish a robust blood sample and gametocyte screening system.
• Establish a viable flow and transportation of blood specimens from the health facility to the laboratory/Insectary for relevant experiments.
• Establish and maintain a conducive, clean and safe environment in the Insectary for membrane feeding experiments.
• Maintain a robust colony of Anopheles gambiae Kisumu to ensure successful membrane feeding experiments.
• Ensure a viable collection of blood samples from children aged <5 years old and transportation to the Insectary for membrane feeding experiments.
• Maintain day-to-day communication with the Principal Investigator, the project coordinator and Insectary team to ensure successful membrane feeding experiments.
• Actively participate in weekly and monthly project management and steering committee meetings.
• Lead in the analysis, dissemination, write up and publication of research findings.
• Train, supervise and mentor research assistants and students working in the insectary.
• Develop independent ancillary studies to increase the visibility of the centre.

REQUIRED EDUCATION AND EXPERIENCE

The position requires an experienced researcher and therefore, candidates must have at least the following qualifications:

• A minimum of a PhD in Vector Biology, Parasitology and/or its equivalent.
• Experience in working in the Insectary or laboratory will be an added advantage.
• A valid Good Clinical Practice (GCP) Certificate.

REMUNERATION

Remuneration will be commensurate with experience and qualifications as applicable to staff in the Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS). KUHeS is an equal opportunity employer.

APPLICATION PROCEDURE

Suitably qualified candidates should submit their applications together with copies of relevant certificates and detailed CVs with names, contact numbers and emails of three traceable referees to:

The Registrar

Kamuzu University of Health Sciences

P/Bag 360

Chichiri

Blantyre 3, Malawi

Email: recruitment@kuhes.ac.mw and vacancies@mac.kuhes.ac.mw

Applications should be submitted not later than 23rd July 2026. Those submitting via email should indicate the title of the post in the subject line of the email. Only short-listed candidates will be acknowledged.

Successful candidates will be required to undergo a safeguarding check prior to appointment and periodically during employment.