Deputy Study Coordinator (Social Science) Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU)

We have an exciting and challenging vacancy for a Deputy Study Coordinator/Social Scientist to join the scientific team working on the Intervention with Microfinance for AIDS & Gender Equity (IMAGE) replication trial. The post holder will be based in Mwanza, Tanzania, and will be part of a collaborative team conducting research on the epidemiology and control of HIV and other sexually transmitted diseases in Mwanza region.

The IMAGE replication trial is based on the IMAGE cluster randomized controlled trial which was conducted in rural South Africa. The trial assessed the impact of a combined group-based microfinance intervention with a participatory gender and HIV training curriculum for loan participants. It showed that, over a two-year period, levels of physical and/or sexual partner violence experienced by participants in the past year were reduced by 55%. In addition, levels of household poverty were significantly reduced, and participants were more empowered as evidenced by greater self confidence, autonomy in decision making, and increased ability to challenge gender norms when compared with women in the control population. With the success of the IMAGE intervention, different policy constituencies have been interested in finding out whether the impact of IMAGE on intimate partner violence was due to the micro-finance or the gender training components of the intervention, or both. Questions about the potential value of working with men as well as the micro-finance recipients are also often raised. The IMAGE replication trial in Tanzania, in collaborating with BRAC International and BRAC Tanzania, will evaluate the impact of the IMAGE intervention in Mwanza, Tanzania, and compare this with the impact of a participatory gender training programme for women and their partners.

Ideal applicants will have a postgraduate qualification in either sociology, anthropology or any other relevant field. The appointment will commence in January 2012 or possibly earlier for a period of four years (subject to satisfactory performance). The appointment will be made on the Mwanza Intervention Trials Unit (MITU) attractive salary scale for Project Coordinators, subject to qualifications and experience.

The primary responsibility of the Deputy Study coordinator will be to assist the Study Coordinator to manage the Intervention with Microfinance for AIDS & Gender Equity (IMAGE) replication trial in Tanzania. The post holder will also lead the social science components of the trial.

MITU aims to establish a high quality team and strongly encourages capable applicants from within the African region.

If you would like to receive further details about the research activity at MITU, please send an email to info@mitu.or.tz

Mode of application: Email to: recruitment@mitu.or.tz

Applications should include:

• Letter of application with details of how you meet the essential and desirable criteria and your reasons for wanting to join MITU.
• Please include a daytime mobile telephone number and e-mail contact details.
• Curriculum vitae (CV) including names and addresses of three referees (two must be from your most recent employers).
• Copies of all relevant certificates and memberships and qualifications.

Closing date for applications

• Applications received later than the 11^th November 2011 would not be considered.
• You will be informed by email if you are selected for interview.
• Interviews will be held on 21^st and 22^nd November at the NIMR Mwanza Centre, Isamilo, Mwanza and may be conducted by telephone if necessary.