Zvitambo Institute for Maternal and Child Health Research is an internationally recognized multidisciplinary public health research institute focused on helping children survive and thrive through research. The organization works in partnership with the Ministry of Health and Child Care (MoHCC) to conduct research and provide technical support aimed at reducing malnutrition and infectious diseases. Zvitambo operates from its head office in Harare and a field site in Shurugwi, where it conducts clinical trials, observational cohort studies, and laboratory and qualitative research. Zvitambo Is Hiring: Studies Coordinator – Apply by 3 August 2026 Zvitambo is seeking a Studies Coordinator with extensive experience in public health research and strong administrative skills. Job Title: Studies Coordinator Job Location: Harare, Zimbabwe (with travel to Shurugwi) Closing Date: 3 August 2026 Contract: Full-time, 12 months The successful candidate will serve as a link between Principal Investigators and Study Leads, ensuring research studies are conducted rigorously, efficiently, and within required timelines. The Studies Coordinator will oversee the full research cycle, including development of study documents, regulatory approvals, study implementation, fieldwork support, document management, and budget oversight. The role will be based in Harare and will require regular travel to Shurugwi, where most field activities take place.
Job Summary
- Type: contract
- Location: Harare
- Category: Research
- Closing Date: 2026-08-03
Key Responsibilities
- Coordinating all stages of study design and implementation.
- Overseeing the development of study documents, forms, and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs).
- Managing study-related administrative processes.
- Ensuring documents are prepared for regulatory submissions.
- Ensuring research staff maintain required regulatory certifications.
- Planning and tracking study budgets.
- Approving purchases of research consumables.
- Supporting study training and launch activities.
- Coordinating fieldwork activities.
- Attending study and research management meetings.
- Maintaining electronic and physical filing systems for study documents.
- Coordinating and drafting study reports.
Requirements
- A Master’s degree or higher in Public Health, Nursing, or a relevant discipline.
- Strong organizational skills and excellent attention to detail.
- Strong project management skills.
- At least 3 years’ proven experience managing and conducting research studies.
- Understanding and practical experience of the full research cycle, from study design to regulatory reporting.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Leadership skills and experience mentoring junior staff.
- Experience coordinating multidisciplinary teams.
- Knowledge of clinical research regulations, including Good Clinical Practice (GCP) and International Conference on Harmonisation (ICH) guidelines.
- Understanding of Zimbabwe’s research ecosystem.
- A clean Class 4 driver’s licence.
- Experience conducting clinical trials of investigative medicinal products.
- Experience integrating qualitative and quantitative research methods.
- Publications in peer-reviewed journals or scientific conference presentations.
- Experience working with communities to co-design interventions, particularly in rural settings.
How to Apply
Apply by email: [email protected]
About the Company
Zvitambo is an independent Zimbabwean research organization dedicated to improving maternal and child health through rigorous scientific inquiry. Operating primarily from Harare, the entity conducts vital studies across various districts of Zimbabwe. Their research portfolio addresses critical areas including nutrition, HIV/TB prevention, infectious diseases, and child development. Through collaboration with national and international partners, Zvitambo generates robust evidence. This evidence directly informs public health policy and practice, significantly contributing to the well-being of women and children throughout the nation.
Generating evidence for maternal and child health in Zimbabwe.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and experience are typically required for a Studies Coordinator role in research in Zimbabwe?
Usually, a degree in a health-related field such as Public Health, Nursing, or a Social Science is essential for this role. Practical experience in research coordination, clinical trials, or public health programs is highly valued. Some roles may also require certifications in Good Clinical Practice (GCP).
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Studies Coordinator working in a research setting in Zimbabwe?
Daily tasks involve overseeing study protocols, managing research data collection activities, and ensuring participant safety and ethical compliance. You would also coordinate field teams, monitor study progress, and prepare comprehensive reports for principal investigators and regulatory bodies.
What are the expectations regarding work culture and professional conduct for a Studies Coordinator in a Zimbabwean research environment?
Professionalism, adaptability, and strong teamwork are highly valued within Zimbabwean research institutions, particularly when working with communities. Punctuality, respect for local customs, and clear communication with both community stakeholders and study participants are crucial. Collaboration with diverse teams, including local health staff, is also a key expectation.
What are typical career progression paths for a Studies Coordinator in research in Zimbabwe?
A Studies Coordinator can typically progress to a Senior Studies Coordinator, Project Manager, or roles in data management or quality assurance within the research sector. Further education, such as a Master's degree, combined with proven experience, can open doors to research leadership positions or principal investigator roles.
What kind of benefits package (e.g., leave, medical aid, pension) can one typically expect for a research role like this in Zimbabwe?
Standard benefits often include a competitive salary, medical aid contributions, and pension schemes. Annual leave, sick leave, and potentially study leave are also common provisions. The specific benefits package can vary significantly depending on the employer and funding organization.
What should applicants focus on in their applications, and what do Zimbabwean employers look for in a Studies Coordinator?
Employers seek candidates with strong organizational skills, meticulous attention to detail, and proven experience in managing research studies ethically and efficiently. Highlight your experience with ethical review processes, data management systems, and community engagement. Emphasize your ability to work both autonomously and as part of a multi-disciplinary team.