Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI) is Hiring a Research Associate & Project Manager: Apply by 08 Mar 2026

Overview

The Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI) is hiring a Research Associate & Project Manager to oversee a project focused on the safe and ethical use of generative AI in mental health. This role involves managing research activities, contributing to research on AI-related mental health risks, and engaging with stakeholders globally.

Key Responsibilities

• Project Management: Coordinate multi-site research activities, manage risks, track progress, and maintain project documentation.
• Research Leadership: Lead the design of a taxonomy of harms for genAI mental health interventions, conduct qualitative and mixed-methods research, integrate lived experience and clinical expertise, and contribute to publications.
• Stakeholder Engagement and Knowledge Translation: Facilitate workshops and consultations, engage with lived experience experts, and support the development of policy-relevant guidance.
• Ethics, Governance, and Compliance: Ensure compliance with ethical standards, oversee governance frameworks, and maintain responsible research conduct.
• Capacity Building and Dissemination: Assist in organizing workshops and trainings, promote knowledge exchange, and develop dissemination materials.

Requirements

• PhD degree in a relevant field such as mental health, public health, social sciences, health systems, or bioethics.
• Minimum of 3 years of relevant research experience.
• Knowledge of digital mental health and generative AI applications is highly desirable.
• Expertise in qualitative and mixed-methods research.
• Experience in multi-partner research projects, preferably with a global or mental health focus.
• Track record of peer-reviewed publications and technical report authorship.

Required Skills

• Advanced project management skills (timelines, deliverables, partner coordination).
• Stakeholder engagement and facilitation abilities.
• Strong verbal and written communication skills in English.
• Experience working with ethics committees, regulatory bodies, or governance frameworks.
• Ability to integrate lived experience and clinical expertise into research processes.
• Familiarity with AI, digital health technologies, or medical device research is an advantage.

Why This Role Matters

This position offers a unique opportunity to advance the responsible and ethical deployment of AI in mental health, combining research excellence with practical impact. The successful candidate will contribute to shaping global best practices, safeguarding vulnerable populations, and generating insights that influence policy, clinical practice, and future digital mental health innovation.

Location

Durban, South Africa

Deadline

8 March 2026