Job Description

The Mental Health, Alcohol, Substance Use & Tobacco Research Unit (MASTRU) aims to conduct and facilitate high-quality scientific research to inform policy, healthcare services, and interventions which promote mental health and or reduce harmful effects of substance use in South Africa.
We are seeking an experienced, highly motivated Specialist Scientist to work in the field of mental health, substance use and behavioral health research.
Responsibilities will include:

• Initiate and lead research in the behavioral sciences
• Responsible for generating research grants
• Provide scientific leadership
• Provide mentorship to early- and mid-career scientists
• Fostering collaboration through strategic partnerships
• Building effective teams to conduct rigorous research
• Building effective teams to promote behavioral health

Duration of the Contract.
Permanent
Remuneration
R 1 346 622.00 per annum (cost-to-company)

• PhD in Psychology or related field
• 7 years' experience in substance use mental health research.
• Record of 20 lifetime publications (ISI journal articles, editorials or book chapters and technical reports) with at least 6 as first/senior author.
• PI of successful income generation/grant application of ? R 600 000 (NB: funds raised as a co-I/PI on a sub-project are not counted, neither are non-research funds (conferences, course fees, etc.).
• Successfully supervised ?4 post-graduate students to graduation.
• Records of translating professional, scientific or clinical expertise, new knowledge and research findings into public understanding, policy, and/or practice, in order to improve health.
• Experience in leading research project(s), including mentoring and managing a research team.
• Experience in budgeting, financial and risk management.
• Excellent interpersonal relations and communication skills.

Advantageous:

• More than 10 years' experience working in mental health or substance use field.

• HPCSA registration or registration with relevant professional body if relevant

Closing Date:
10 October 2025

Skills Required