Research Assistant (Nutrition Research) - 2 Positions, 4.5 Years Contract

About the role

The University of Malawi is recruiting two Research Assistants on a 4.5-year contract to support nutrition research within the public health nutrition unit and the Intake24_Malawi consortium. The postholder works under the supervision of the Lead Investigator.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct research, including adapting Intake24 through the development of the Malawi Nutrient Databank, portion estimation and validation studies, and Intake24_Malawi validation studies using the online tool and urinary biomarkers of dietary intake
• Take part in planning, data collection and analysis of the Malawi Nutrition Survey
• Help write papers for publication in academic journals and other media, and share research findings at national and international conferences
• Collaborate with colleagues in the public health nutrition unit, the Intake24_Malawi consortium and the University on original research
• Engage in continuing professional development through training, seminars, conferences and study
• Liaise with industry partners outside the University, supervise project students and support staff, and help with school promotion events such as Open Days and Visit Days
• Take part in project, department and school meetings and handle project administration such as organising meetings, presentations and seminars

Required profile

• Bachelor's or Master's degree in nutrition, dietetics or a related biological science
• Experience in the field, in human studies and in supervising students
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team, and to be self-motivated

Required skills

• Nutrition knowledge: dietary assessment tools and methods, and dietary assessment experience
• Data analysis using R, Stata or Python, and experience with large datasets
• Statistical analysis, report writing and presentation at conferences
• Excellent verbal and written communication and computer skills

Applications with a detailed CV, copies of certificates and the names of three referees must be sent to the Registrar, University of Malawi, by 19 September 2025.