Are you passionate about research, social health, and working with adolescents and their families? If you have a knack for conducting assessments and gathering data, an exciting opportunity awaits at the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN). The university is currently hiring two Interviewers to join its esteemed Centre for Rural Health within the College of Health Sciences. These roles are part of the Asenze Research Project, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at improving mental health outcomes among young people in KwaZulu-Natal.
Interviewer Job Overview
- Position: Interviewer (2 positions available)
- Location: Hybrid – Bothas Hill site office, UKZN Howard College, and remote work
- Contract Type: 1-Year Fixed-Term Contract
- Department: Centre for Rural Health, College of Health Sciences, UKZN
- Project: Asenze Research Project (focused on adolescent mental health and social determinants of health)
- Schedule: Tuesday to Saturday workweek
About the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN)
The University of KwaZulu-Natal is a leading institution in South Africa, committed to Employment Equity and improving representation across its departments. As part of its Employment Equity Plan, preference will be given to applicants from designated groups.
This position falls under the Centre for Rural Health in the School of Nursing and Public Health, and is part of the Asenze Research Project—a collaborative initiative with the University of Columbia and funded by the National Institutes of Mental Health (NIMH).
The Asenze Research Project
The Asenze study is now in its fifth wave and focuses on understanding the transition of adolescents into young adulthood. It seeks to explore how social determinants of health (SDOH) impact the mental health of young adults and their caregivers. As an Interviewer, you will play a pivotal role in this project by gathering valuable data to help inform future health interventions.
Key Responsibilities
As an Interviewer, you will:
- Trace, Consent, and Interview Participants: Engage with study participants both telephonically and in person.
- Conduct Psycho-Social Assessments: Work with adolescents, young adults, and their families to gather data on mental health and social determinants.
- Data Collection: Perform door-to-door surveys and utilize electronic data collection tools such as RedCap, OpenClinica, or Mobenzi.
- Provide Referrals: Identify and refer participants to necessary services based on assessments.
- Travel: Regularly commute between the Bothas Hill site, Howard College, and remote locations as required.
Minimum Requirements
To qualify, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- Education: Senior Certificate (Matric).
- Experience:
- At least three years of experience in a research environment.
- Hands-on experience conducting psycho-social interviews with adolescents and families.
- Previous experience in door-to-door data collection activities.
- Technical Skills: Familiarity with electronic data collection platforms such as RedCap, OpenClinica, or Mobenzi.
- Language Proficiency: Fluency in both Zulu and English.
- Regional Knowledge: Experience working within the Valley of 1000 Hills region.
Why Work at UKZN?
UKZN offers a dynamic environment that fosters growth, inclusivity, and cutting-edge research. Joining the Asenze project means becoming part of a multidisciplinary team that’s making a tangible difference in the lives of adolescents and their families in KwaZulu-Natal.
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Application Process
Interested candidates should complete the official UKZN application form, available on the Vacancies section of the UKZN website: www.ukzn.ac.za.
Submission Details
Applicants must submit the following via email to crh@ukzn.ac.za:
- Completed application form.
- Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (aligned with the job’s minimum requirements).
- Supporting documents (certificates, references, etc.).
- A covering letter highlighting your suitability for the role.
Important: Use ASENZE CRH11 as the reference in your email subject line.
Closing Date:
- Applications must be received by 15 January 2025. Late applications may be considered at the university’s discretion.
For further enquiries about the job profile, contact Ms. F Timol at timolf@ukzn.ac.za.
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Joining the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) as an Interviewer for the Asenze Research Project is more than just a job—it’s an opportunity to contribute to meaningful research that impacts lives. This role is ideal for individuals passionate about social health, mental well-being, and community development. By working in a supportive, multidisciplinary team, you’ll help shape the future of mental health research in KwaZulu-Natal.
