Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Trust
Job Description
Introduction
The Malawi – Liverpool – Wellcome – Programme (MLW) (http://www.mlw.mw) is an internationally recognized centre for research and training, funded by the Wellcome (W) in collaboration with our key partners, the Kamuzu University of Health Sciences (KUHeS), Liverpool School of Tropical Medicine (LSTM) and University of Liverpool (UoL) among others. We are committed to promoting research and training led by Malawian & International scientists, with the aim of conducting science that drives health and wellbeing in Malawi and elsewhere in the Region.
Job summary
The programme is seeking a capable and forward-thinking individual to assume the role of Optometrist to work in the OCT in CM study (Predicting Acute and Post-Recovery Outcomes in Cerebral Malaria and Other Comas by Optical Coherence Tomography). This study aims at investigating the use of OCT of the optic nerve to identify children with severe brain swelling whilst in coma; and OCT of the macula to identify those at risk of neurological problems after cerebral malaria. The study is also investigating retinal haemorrhages and vessel width as markers of severe disease.
The successful candidate will join the OCT in CM study team under the direction of the local principal investigator. S/he will receive training in indirect ophthalmoscopy, fundus imaging and OCT scanning and then perform these on recruited children during admission and in follow ups. Responsibilities also include accurate data recording, liaising with medical and nursing staff and ensuring the study protocol and standard operating procedures are followed. S/he will share cover of activity where participants are recruited out-of-hours and at weekends. The postholder will undertake sessions at Lions Sight First Eye Hospital Optometry Department to maintain clinical practice in optometry.
Prior exposure to a hospital environment is crucial, demonstrating the ability to navigate and contribute effectively in such settings. A profound understanding of the ethical and quality principles guiding clinical research is expected. The educational background should include a BSc degree in Optometry from a recognized institution, although candidates with a Diploma in Optometry and at least four years of relevant experience will also be considered. Proficiency in ophthalmic skills and knowledge further strengthens the candidate’s suitability for this role.
Responsibilities
Duties and responsibilities
- To perform indirect ophthalmoscopy, fundus imaging and OCT scans on recruited children.
- Accurate and complete documentation of study data (e.g source documents, CRFs, screening and enrolment logs).
- To develop clinical research skills through learning, engagement and participation
- To attend and participate in study meetings including online meetings with investigators abroad.
- To participate in community engagement on request.
- To ensure adequate and proper use of study resources.
- To maintain professional conduct and working relationship all the time.
- To identify own knowledge and skill gaps and develop an effective training plan.
- Perform any other relevant duties that may be assigned by the principle investigator or study coordinator.
Professional
As applicable:
- To always put the patient first.
- To ensure participants’ safety at all times.
- To behave professionally, and communicate professionally with team members, and other staff at all times.
- To ensure maintenance of confidentiality of patients’ records, and respect patients’ and guardians’ privacy and rights.
- To keep clear and up-to date patient records at all times.
- To ensure staff maintain infection control procedures at all times according to ward/hospital protocols.
- To ensure high data quality and integrity.
- To adhere to standards of ICH good clinical practice (GCP) principles.
- To be aware at all times of responsibilities pertaining to the post (as recorded in this document) and other SOPs.
Key competencies/attributes and skills
- Experience with ocular examination and funduscopy. Indirect ophthalmoscopy experience desirable.
- Experience in working in a hospital environment.
- Understanding of the ethical and quality principles underlying the conduct of clinical research.
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team and with people at all levels.
- Able to work flexibly.
- Self-motivated and able to deliver results and work out of hours when required to complete tasks.
- Excellent communications skills.
HEALTH & SAFETY
- Take full responsibility for ensuring a safe work environment by following health and safety rules at all times for colleagues, study participants and oneself.
- Keep up to date and maintain awareness of all Health and Safety issues by fulfilling the following;
- Attending the scheduled quarterly Health & Safety sensitization trainings at least once a year.
- Attend a Health and safety induction during the first week of employment, signing acknowledgement and keep abreast of the MLW Health and Safety Policies and their updates.
- Attend and be updated in Good Clinical Practice.
- All staff are employed under the MLW Programme and are ultimately responsible to the Programme whether directly employed under the Core Grant, a research fellowship or project grant. All staff are expected to be flexible and may be required to contribute to the activities of the Core Programme or another project(s).
Requirements
Qualifications
BSc degree/Diploma in Optometry obtained from recognized institution.
Good ophthalmic skills and knowledge.
Good interpersonal and organizational skills.
Remuneration and Benefits
MLW offers an attractive remuneration package which includes a competitive salary package commensurate with the position, a medical aid scheme, insurance cover, pension scheme, gratuity benefits redeemable once every year, among others.
MLW also offers opportunities such as scholarships, upgrading and training opportunities to employees. These are based on excellent job performance and other set criteria.
MLW recognizes its responsibility in safeguarding and protecting communities, research participants and patients. Please note that successful candidates will be requested to undergo a safeguarding check prior to appointment and at regular time points during employment.
Method Of Application
Suitably qualified candidates should forward their applications with copies of relevant certificates, and a detailed CV as One PDF to [email protected]. Please indicate the position title as the heading of your email.
Hand-delivered applications will not be processed.
ONLY SHORT-LISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED.