| Government Entity | University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg |
|---|---|
| Location | Gauteng, Johannesburg |
| Reference Number | 106817 |
| Centre / Location | Johannesburg,ZA |
| Closing Date | September 13, 2026 |
| Source and Application | wits.ac.za |
Organization: DST-NRF Centre of Excellence in Human Development
Main purpose:
The DSTI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Human Development at the University of the Witwatersrand seeks to appoint two Research Assistants to support a research project involving cognitive data collection.
The successful candidates should be able to assist with the planning and implementation of the project by administering standardised cognitive assessments, capturing and managing research data, conducting
data quality checks, and supporting participant and study administration. Candidates should demonstrate strong interpersonal and organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to work effectively with research participants and as part of a multidisciplinary team.
Estimated start date: 1 October 2026
Duration: 8 months from commencement
Required minimum education and training:
- Grade 12/Matric (NQF Level 4) or equivalent.
- Experience working with research participants or in a research/data collection environment, including recruiting and interacting with research participants.
- Ability to conduct literature searches and review academic literature.
- Data collection and fieldwork.
- Good computer literacy and confidence using tablets and electronic data collection systems.
- Strong attention to detail and ability to accurately capture and check research data.
- Good organisational, interpersonal, communication, problem-solving and time management skills.
- Understanding of research ethics, confidentiality and working with human participants.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a research team.
- Ability to follow research protocols accurately.
Advantageous:
- Bachelor?s degree or higher in Psychology, Social Sciences, Public Health, Health Sciences, or arelated field.
- Previous experience administering cognitive, psychological or developmental assessments.
- Previous Research Assistant, fieldwork or data collection experience.
- Experience with the NIH Toolbox, REDCap or similar electronic research platforms.
- GCP or other relevant research ethics training.
- Fluency in different South African language in addition to English.
Key responsibilities:
- Administer the NIH Toolbox Cognition Battery according to standardised study procedures.
- Explain assessment procedures and provide clear instructions to participants.
- Capture, enter and maintain accurate research data and study documentation.
- Conduct routine data quality, completeness and consistency checks.
- Maintain participant tracking and assessment records.
- Assist with participant scheduling, follow-up and study administration.
- Maintain study equipment, including tablets/iPads and assessment materials.
- Ensure compliance with study protocols, SOPs, research ethics and confidentiality requirements.
- Attend project training, standardisation sessions and team meetings.
Source / Circular Reference
wits.ac.za