The School of Built Environment and Development Studies at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is seeking a Research Data Manager. The ideal candidate will be responsible for the overall creation, updating, maintenance, and validation of USINGA population research databases to ensure high-quality standards.
USINGA, the Umlazi Surveillance Initiative to Nurture Grassroots Action, is a health and demographic surveillance node of the South African Population Research Infrastructure Network (SAPRIN).
Data Manager Position Overview
- Listing Reference: ukzn_000353
- Listing Status: Online
- Apply By: 29 July 2024
- Industry: Education & Training
- Job Category: University and Academy
- Location: Durban
- Contract: Permanent
- Remuneration: Grade 09
- EE Position: No
Data Manager Job Description
The Research Data Manager will manage data related to population research studies. This role includes the creation, updating, maintenance, and validation of the USINGA population research databases. The successful candidate will maintain high data quality and provide computerized reports of these data.
As a key member of the Research Data Management team, the Research Data Manager will represent USINGA at the SAPRIN Data Management team.
Key Responsibilities
- Oversee the lifecycle of data collected from various population research studies, ensuring it is accurately recorded, securely stored, and efficiently retrieved.
- Collaborate with research teams to develop data collection strategies and methodologies that align with study objectives and ethical standards.
- Ensure data integrity by implementing robust quality control processes, including regular audits and validation checks.
- Design and develop new databases to accommodate emerging research needs, ensuring scalability and flexibility.
- Regularly update existing databases to reflect new data entries and modifications, maintaining a comprehensive and up-to-date data repository.
- Perform routine database maintenance to optimize performance, prevent data corruption, and ensure data security.
- Validate data entries for accuracy and completeness, employing automated tools and manual verification techniques as needed.
- Implement best practices for data management, including the use of standardized coding systems, consistent data entry protocols, and regular data cleaning procedures.
- Develop and enforce data governance policies to ensure compliance with ethical guidelines and regulatory requirements.
- Train research staff and data entry personnel on proper data management techniques, promoting a culture of data quality and integrity.
- Generate detailed and accurate reports from the research databases, tailored to the needs of various stakeholders, including researchers, funders, and policymakers.
- Utilize statistical analysis software (e.g., STATA, SAS, SPSS, R) to perform data analysis, identifying key trends and insights from the collected data.
- Develop user-friendly dashboards and visualizations to present data findings in an accessible and actionable format.
- Support researchers in preparing data for publication in academic journals, ensuring adherence to data presentation standards.
Minimum Requirements
- Education: Bachelor’s degree in computer science or an IT-related field.
- Experience:
- At least three years in data extraction, analysis, or research data management.
- Experience with complex and large databases.
- Experience working with longitudinal data in a Health and Demographic Surveillance System (HDSS).
- Exposure to data extraction, transformation, and loading, and business analytics.
- Experience working with scientists such as demographers, clinicians, and epidemiologists in formulating data requirements and preparing data for statistical analysis.
- Experience mentoring junior staff in data management functions.
- Skills:
- Proficiency in Structured Query Language (SQL), MS Office, and statistical analysis programs such as STATA, SAS, SPSS, or R.
- Knowledge of Good Clinical Practice (GCP).
- Familiarity with World Bank Survey Solutions.
- Other:
- Valid driver’s licence.
How to Apply
Interested candidates should apply by 29 July 2024. Please ensure you meet the minimum requirements before submitting your application.
Click on this link to apply: Data Manager Application
In conclusion, the position of Research Data Manager at the University of KwaZulu-Natal’s School of Built Environment and Development Studies offers a unique opportunity for a highly skilled professional in the field of data management. This role is integral to the success of the USINGA population research databases, contributing to the health and demographic surveillance efforts within the Umlazi community and beyond.
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