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About Biomedical Research and Training Institute (BRTI) The Biomedical Research and Training Institute (BRTI) is a Zimbabwean non-profit organisation registered in 1995. The institute implements research projects and provides training and support services in public health, biomedicine and health research, with key focus areas including HIV/AIDS, TB, Malaria and operational research. BRTI’s mission is to promote health and improve quality of life in Zimbabwe and the Southern Africa Development Community (SADC) region through research, training and evidence-based health interventions. Job Summary BRTI is implementing the STOP (Single Dose Penicillin Treatment Strategies for Syphilis in Pregnancy) study , an individually randomised, open-label controlled trial integrated within antenatal care services in Harare, Zimbabwe. The study focuses on pregnant women aged 16 years and above between 14 and 34 weeks of gestation who have active syphilis. The research involves participant recruitment, clinical assessments, sample collection, treatment and follow-up of mothers and newborn babies. BRTI is seeking five Research Nurses to support the successful implementation of the study.
Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Harare
- Category: Healthcare
- Closing Date: 2026-07-29
Key Responsibilities
- Recruiting potential study participants.
- Obtaining informed consent from eligible participants.
- Conducting syphilis testing to confirm active infection.
- Collecting samples from mothers during pregnancy and after delivery.
- Performing DBS finger prick collection for PK analysis.
- Collecting neonatal blood samples at 72 hours after birth.
- Completing accurate and timely data collection using ODK on study tablets.
- Resolving data queries promptly.
- Administering benzathine penicillin treatment according to study allocation.
- Identifying and managing possible treatment side effects or reactions.
- Conducting physical examinations of mothers and newborn babies.
- Collecting maternal and neonatal measurements including birthweight, MUAC, head circumference and length.
- Collecting samples for syphilis and Treponema pallidum testing.
- Treating babies exposed to syphilis according to study procedures.
- Supporting participants with partner notification processes.
- Carrying out other study-related activities as required.
- Understand and follow the study protocol and amendments.
- Provide clinically competent research nursing support.
- Collect samples according to approved study procedures.
- Work closely with healthcare workers at research clinics.
- Ensure participants are correctly assigned and managed according to study groups.
- Maintain accurate participant records and research documentation.
- Monitor study measurements and maintain data quality.
- Ensure availability of required clinical supplies and medicines.
- Maintain research equipment including tablets, phones and data collection tools.
- Refer participants requiring additional medical assessment or treatment.
- Perform other duties assigned by the line manager.
Requirements
- A Degree or Diploma in General Nursing.
- A Diploma in Midwifery.
- A valid practising certificate.
- A valid Good Clinical Practice (GCP) Certificate.
- At least one year’s experience working in a research environment.
- Experience independently organising and conducting research activities.
- Ability to work with minimal supervision.
- Strong initiative, self-motivation and problem-solving skills.
- A respectful and compassionate approach when working with pregnant women.
- Experience working in maternity units or with pregnant women.
- Willingness to work weekends and public holidays when required.
- Fluency in Shona and English.
- Experience conducting neonatal blood draws.
- Experience working in local authority council clinics.
How to Apply
Apply by email: [email protected]
About the Company
The Biomedical Research and Training Institute (BRTI) is a prominent not-for-profit institution operating in Zimbabwe. It is dedicated to significantly enhancing health research and training capabilities across the nation. Through its impactful programs, BRTI plays a crucial role in advancing scientific knowledge and developing skilled professionals within the Zimbabwean health sector. This commitment helps to address critical health challenges and improve public health outcomes throughout the country. BRTI's operations are fundamental to fostering a sustainable and innovative health research environment in Zimbabwe.
Building health research and training capacity in Zimbabwe.
Website: https://brti.co.zw/
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and certifications required to become a Research Nurse in Zimbabwe?
Generally, you will need a Registered General Nurse (RGN) diploma or degree, registered with the Nurses Council of Zimbabwe. Prior experience in clinical research or a strong understanding of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines is often highly valued.
What do the day-to-day responsibilities of a Research Nurse typically involve in a Zimbabwean biomedical research setting?
Daily tasks often include recruiting and screening study participants, collecting and managing clinical data, and administering study interventions or monitoring patient responses. You will also educate participants about research protocols and ensure ethical compliance, often involving significant patient interaction.
What is the typical work culture and what are the expectations for Research Nurses in Zimbabwe, particularly concerning patient interaction and ethical considerations?
The work culture emphasizes strong ethical conduct, meticulous record-keeping, and respectful patient engagement, often in resource-constrained environments. Research Nurses are expected to be culturally sensitive and maintain strict confidentiality while adhering to both international and local ethical guidelines.
What are the realistic career progression or growth paths for a Research Nurse in Zimbabwe?
Career paths can include advancing to Senior Research Nurse, Clinical Research Coordinator, or Study Coordinator roles, often with increased responsibility for study oversight. Further education, such as a Master's in Public Health or Clinical Research, can also open doors to research management or monitoring positions within the healthcare sector or NGOs.
What key attributes do employers in Zimbabwe look for when hiring Research Nurses, and what's the typical application process?
Employers typically seek candidates with strong clinical skills, meticulous attention to detail, and a solid understanding of research ethics and GCP. The application process usually involves submitting a detailed CV and cover letter, followed by an interview that assesses both technical knowledge and interpersonal skills.