Policy Scientist

Background

Makerere University School of Public Health invites applications for a Policy Scientist under the Wellcome Trust-supported NETOMA study, conducted in collaboration with research partners in Uganda, Zambia, Nigeria and the United Kingdom. The study examines why health worker shortages coexist with unemployment and underemployment among qualified health professionals in Africa, focusing on health workforce employment, professional identities and labour markets.

Responsibilities

• To conduct health workforce policy research, systematic reviews, evidence synthesis and qualitative analysis, and translate research findings into evidence to inform policy and practice.
• Conduct systematic reviews, literature searches, evidence appraisal and synthesis on health workforce issues.
• Review health workforce policies, strategies and regulatory frameworks to identify policy implications.
• Conduct qualitative interviews, focus groups, data analysis and preparation of publishable findings.
• Coordinate assigned research activities, work plans, deliverables and collaboration across research teams.
• Prepare policy briefs, technical reports, scientific manuscripts and other research outputs.
• Support research documentation, team mentorship, stakeholder engagement and knowledge translation.

Qualifications and Desirable Qualities

• Bachelor’s degree in Medicine and Surgery, Nursing, Midwifery or equivalent, and a Master of Public Health or equivalent relevant postgraduate qualification.
• Knowledge of health systems, health workforce employment, professional development and labour markets.
• Training or experience in research methods, systematic reviews, evidence synthesis and health policy analysis.
• Strong analytical, organisational, scientific writing and communication skills, with proficiency in relevant research software.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively, with evidence of research ethics, GCP or Human Research Participant Protection training.
• Experience with evidence-review software, publications, policy engagement or health workforce research is advantageous; interest in future PhD training is desirable.