18‑month Data Manager contract at SBIMB (Wits), Parktown. Manage REDCap and research data for mental health projects. Apply by 9 January 2026 (Ref: DM001)
Job Title: Data Manager (18 Month Contract)
Division: Sydney Brenner Institute for Molecular Bioscience (SBIMB)
Type: Temporary (18‑Month Contract)
Main Purpose of the Job:
To manage research data and associated activities for Mental Health Projects at the SBIMB. This includes developing and maintaining databases (including REDCap), tracking data collection and storage, and managing data quality control for research projects.
Location: Parktown, Johannesburg
Closing Date: 9 January 2026
Advert Reference Number: DM001
In accordance with our Employment Equity goals and plan, preference will be given to suitable applicants from designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and subsequent amendments thereto.
Key Performance Areas
1. Data Management
- Maintain safe and secure storage of all electronic data
- Maintain research participant confidentiality
- Contribute to the development of SOPs for the use and maintenance of databases
- Ensure that all data files from field sites are uploaded timeously into the central REDCap database or other study‑specific databases
- Assist external data managers with checking forms/databases for missing and/or inconsistent data
- Contribute to software/database development and maintenance
2. Data Security and Sharing
- Assist users in performing data‑related tasks
- Provide data extracts for analysis in line with approved data requests
- Ensure secure storage of data, including regular backups
- Assist the Data Scientist with developing and implementing SOPs for data processing and management
3. Quality Control
- Ensure that databases are up to date
- Run regular data quality checks and liaise with project sites on data quality issues and errors
- Resolve data discrepancies with the appropriate parties
- Ensure that all data cleaning and correction activities are fully documented
4. Report Management
- Identify errors and inconsistencies in reports
- Assist Data Scientists with resolving reporting errors and inconsistencies
- Assist the Data Manager in the management and preparation of project‑related reports
5. Support for Data Management Activities
- Complete tasks delegated by project Principal Investigators (PIs)
- Provide effective and efficient telephonic and email communication and support to project teams
Required Minimum Education and Training
- Honours BSc in Computer Science, Data Science, or a relevant qualification
- Demonstrated experience with databases and programming
Required Minimum Work Experience
- Minimum 3 years’ experience working with databases and programming, preferably in a research environment
- Proven experience as a Data Manager (minimum 1–2 years)
Desirable Additional Education, Work Experience and Personal Abilities
- Experience using REDCap and exposure to health/medical data
- Competent in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, Outlook)
- Experience working with large datasets
- Experience in health informatics and/or bioinformatics
- MSc in Computer Science or equivalent would be an advantage
- Meticulous, with strong attention to detail and the ability to work under pressure
- Ability to work as part of a multi‑disciplinary team to ensure good service delivery
How to Apply
Should you be interested in applying for this vacancy, please send an email to:
Vacancies43@witshealth.co.za
The subject line of the email must read: “DM001 – Data Manager” (or clearly include DM001 and the job title you are applying for).
Please include the following documentation:
- Cover letter (maximum one page) clearly stating which vacancy you are applying for
- Detailed CV, including contact details for at least 3 referees who are familiar with your work
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