Senior Clinical Research Associate Job Vacancy in Mzimba, Malawi – Pharmaceuticals
Job Description
Position: Senior Clinical Research Associate
Company: GlaxoSmithKline Malawi
Location: Mzimba, Malawi
Experience: 5+ years of clinical research experience
Education: Bachelor’s degree in Life Sciences or related field; Master’s preferred
Employment Type: Full-time
Industry: Pharmaceuticals
Department: Clinical Research
Salary: SSP 1,200,000 – SSP 1,800,000 per month
Vacancies:1
Company Overview
GlaxoSmithKline Malawi is a leading multinational pharmaceutical company dedicated to improving health outcomes across the African continent. With a strong presence in Malawi for over two decades, GSK Malawi combines global expertise with local insight to develop, manufacture, and distribute high‑quality medicines, vaccines, and consumer health products. The company’s mission is to empower communities through innovative health solutions, robust research collaborations, and sustainable practices. As part of GSK’s worldwide network, the Malawi branch offers career pathways that foster professional growth, encourage scientific curiosity, and support a culture of integrity and inclusion. Join a team that is at the forefront of medical advancement and make a tangible impact on the health of millions.
Job Overview
The Senior Clinical Research Associate (CRA) will play a pivotal role in managing and monitoring clinical trials conducted in Malawi, ensuring compliance with regulatory standards, Good Clinical Practice (GCP), and GSK’s internal policies. Reporting to the Clinical Project Manager, the CRA will oversee site selection, initiation, monitoring, and close‑out activities for Phase I‑III studies across therapeutic areas such as infectious diseases, oncology, and vaccines. This position offers an exciting opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that addresses critical health challenges in the region while collaborating with international research teams, local investigators, and health authorities.
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Key Responsibilities
- Lead the planning, execution, and oversight of clinical trial activities at selected sites in Malawi.
- Conduct site feasibility assessments, negotiate contracts, and ensure appropriate site resources.
- Perform regular monitoring visits to verify data accuracy, protocol adherence, and patient safety.
- Prepare and review essential trial documentation, including source data verification, case report forms, and regulatory submissions.
- Collaborate with cross‑functional teams—data management, pharmacovigilance, biostatistics—to resolve queries and ensure timely data capture.
- Maintain comprehensive trial master files and ensure all documentation meets GCP and local regulatory requirements.
- Provide training and mentorship to junior CRAs and site staff on study procedures and compliance.
- Identify and mitigate risks, escalating issues to the Clinical Project Manager as needed.
- Support the preparation of study reports, publications, and presentations for scientific conferences.
Required Skills
- In‑depth knowledge of GCP, ICH guidelines, and Malawi’s Medicines and Poisons Board regulations.
- Strong analytical and problem‑solving abilities with meticulous attention to detail.
- Excellent communication and interpersonal skills for effective stakeholder engagement.
- Proficiency in electronic data capture (EDC) systems and clinical trial management software.
- Ability to travel frequently within Malawi and occasionally to regional sites.
- Project management experience with the capacity to handle multiple studies simultaneously.
Education
A minimum of a Bachelor’s degree in Pharmacy, Medicine, Nursing, Life Sciences, or a related discipline is required. A Master’s degree or relevant certifications such as Certified Clinical Research Professional (CCRP) are highly desirable and will be considered an advantage during the selection process.
Experience
Candidates must have at least five years of hands‑on experience in clinical research monitoring, preferably within a multinational pharmaceutical environment. Prior experience managing Phase II or III trials in low‑ and middle‑income countries will be viewed favorably.
Salary
The successful applicant will receive a competitive monthly salary ranging from SSP 1,200,000 to SSP 1,800,000, commensurate with experience and qualifications. Performance‑based bonuses and annual salary reviews are part of GSK’s remuneration framework.
Benefits
- Comprehensive health insurance covering employee and dependents.
- Retirement savings plan with employer contributions.
- Generous paid leave, including annual, sick, and parental leave.
- Professional development allowance for conferences, certifications, and further education.
- Employee assistance program and wellness initiatives.
Training
- On‑boarding program covering GSK’s corporate culture, compliance, and systems.
- Continuous GCP and regulatory training modules.
- Access to internal e‑learning platforms for skill enhancement.
- Mentorship from senior clinical scientists and project leaders.
Working Environment
GSK Malawi offers a collaborative, inclusive, and dynamic workplace where scientific excellence is celebrated. Employees work in modern office facilities in Mzimba, with access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratory resources and a supportive network of global experts. The company promotes a healthy work‑life balance, encouraging flexible working arrangements where operationally feasible.
Application Process
Interested candidates should submit an up‑to‑date CV and a cover letter outlining their relevant experience through the GSK Careers portal. Applications will be screened by the Talent Acquisition team, and shortlisted candidates will be invited for a virtual interview followed by an on‑site assessment at the Mzimba office.
Equal Opportunity Statement
GlaxoSmithKline Malawi is an equal opportunity employer. We celebrate diversity and are committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees, regardless of gender, race, religion, disability, or sexual orientation. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination.
