Head of Research at The African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE)

Job Purpose

• The Head of Research will provide strategic leadership and oversight for all research activities within the African Medical Centre of Excellence (AMCE). This role is responsible for developing the institution’s research vision, securing funding, ensuring ethical and regulatory compliance, fostering collaborative partnerships, and building a robust research culture that advances scientific knowledge and improves clinical outcomes.

Key Accountabilities/Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership & Vision

• Develop and implement a comprehensive, forward-looking research strategy aligned with AMCE’s mission and clinical priorities.
• Provide executive leadership to the Research Directorate, setting goals, priorities, and performance standards.
• Foster a culture of scientific inquiry, innovation, and excellence across all departments.

Research Program Development & Management

• Oversee the entire research portfolio, including clinical trials, translational research, public health studies, and laboratory-based investigations.
• Identify and pursue new research opportunities, funding streams, and strategic partnerships.
• Ensure all research projects are scientifically sound, feasible, and managed effectively from conception to publication.

Funding & Resource Mobilization

• Lead efforts to secure significant external research funding from national and international grants, foundations, and industry partners.
• Develop and manage the research department’s annual budget, ensuring optimal allocation of resources.
• Advocate for and strategically invest in research infrastructure, equipment, and human capital.

Compliance, Ethics & Governance

• Ensure all research activities adhere to the highest ethical standards and comply with national regulations and international guidelines (GCP, GLP).
• Oversee the institutional ethics review process and maintain a robust research governance framework.
• Serve as the primary liaison with regulatory bodies (e.g., NAFDAC, NHREC) and accreditation agencies for research-related matters.

Collaboration & Partnership Building

• Build and maintain strong collaborative relationships with academic institutions, research networks, industry partners, and government agencies.
• Represent AMCE at national and international research forums, conferences, and consortia.
• Promote interdisciplinary and cross-departmental research initiatives within the institution.

Capacity Building & Mentorship

• Mentor, and develop a talented team of researchers, scientists, and research support staff.
• Establish training programs and mentorship opportunities to build research capacity among clinicians and junior scientists.
• Promote academic output, including peer-reviewed publications, presentations, and intellectual property development.

Knowledge Translation & Impact

• Champion the translation of research findings into clinical practice, policy, and commercial applications.
• Monitor and report on the impact of the research portfolio, including scientific output, funding secured, and influence on patient care.
• Communicate research achievements to internal and external stakeholders, including the public.

Must have skills

Medical Research

Qualifications

• Medical Doctorate (MD) or PhD in a relevant biomedical, clinical, or public health field.
• Extensive post-doctoral research experience and a proven track record of scholarly achievement.
• Minimum of 8-10 years of progressive leadership experience in managing a research program within an academic medical center, research institute, or healthcare organization.
• Demonstrated success in securing and managing major competitive research grants.
• Strong publication record in high-impact, peer-reviewed journals.
• In-depth knowledge of the global and African research landscape, funding mechanisms, and regulatory environments.
• Proven ability to lead, inspire, and manage a diverse team of professionals.
• Exceptional strategic planning, financial management, and negotiation skills.
• Outstanding communication, advocacy, and stakeholder engagement abilities.