About the position
Introduction
Internal Advert - Specialist: Research - Health Policy
The Specialist: Research (Health Policy) position is vacant. The Specialist Research (Health Policy) will report directly to the Senior Manager: Health Policy and forms part of the Research and Development Division. The position is based at Head Office, Pretoria.
The total remuneration package for this position is between R1,165,101 and R1,456,304 per annum dependent of Skills and experience
The closing date for applications will be Monday, 23 February 2026.
Duties & Responsibilities
The Specialist: Research (Health Policy) will be required to perform the following functions within the Research and Development Division under the supervision of the Senior Manager: Health Policy:
- Support the implementation of the Scheme's Research Strategy through evidence-based research that informs health policy and strategic decisions.
- Conduct and manage epidemiological and operational research to identify patterns, causes, and risk factors of diseases affecting Scheme members.
- Lead and execute research projects from conceptualisation to completion, including study design, data analysis, and dissemination of results.
- Develop and apply qualitative and quantitative research methodologies and ensure rigorous adherence to ethical research principles.
- Translate research findings into actionable insights and present recommendations to Management, Committees, and the Board of Trustees.
- Collaborate with internal stakeholders and external partners, including academic and research institutions, to enhance research capacity and quality.
- Publish research outcomes in peer-reviewed journals and present at relevant conferences and forums (including Universal Healthcare and public sector policy forums).
- Provide technical support in data interpretation, statistical analysis and the development of research outputs and communication materials.
- Ensure compliance with legislation and research ethics, including POPIA, the National Health Act, and other applicable laws and regulations.
- Manage research risks and maintain proper documentation and reporting of research projects to ensure transparency and accountability.
Desired Experience & Qualification
Qualification requirements are
- A Bachelor's Degree in a relevant Health Science discipline such as Public Health, Clinical Epidemiology, Medicine, Pharmaceutical Sciences, or Medical Sciences.
- A Master's Degree in Public Health, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, or a related health discipline is essential.
- A PhD in Public Health, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, or a related field will be an added advantage
Experience Required
- 3-5years of experience within a research environment, preferably in health policy, public health, or epidemiology.
- Demonstrated experience with data collection, statistical analysis, literature reviews, and publication in peer-reviewed journals.
- Proficiency with statistical and analysis software such as STATA, R, EPINFO, MAXQDA, or NVIVO.
- Proven ability to prepare scientific reports, research protocols, and policy briefs.
- Strong presentation and communication skills, with the ability to simplify complex research findings for non-technical audiences
Skills / Behavioural Competencies
- Critical Thinking and Analytical Skills - Demonstrates logical and evidence-based reasoning in research.
- Problem Solving and Innovation - Applies creative and practical approaches to research challenges.
- Attention to Detail - Ensures accuracy, completeness, and adherence to methodology.
- Collaboration and Communication - Works effectively with internal and external stakeholders.
- Adaptability - Responds positively to evolving research needs and priorities.
- Ethical Conduct - Upholds research integrity and data confidentiality.
- Project Management Skills - Manages projects efficiently within deadlines and budgets.
- Continuous Learning - Keeps abreast of analytical, methodological, and technologica advancements.
Desirable
- Understanding of the medical schemes industry, health policy environment, or healthcare system regulations will be highly advantageous
Interested?
GEMS employs people with the highest level of integrity - submission to the appropriate pre-employment assessment is obligatory to be considered for the position.
Kindly note that the information provided on application of the position may be shared with a third party for vetting purposes and will be stored by GEMS for a period of 5 years.
Kindly note that information is required for Employment Equity Purposes and information gathered is strictly used according to the intended purpose of collection, unless there is a legal need or permission is granted from the applicant themselves to make use of it for other purposes.
Should you wish to have your information removed from the GEMS database, kindly send a request in writing to [Email Address Removed] .
GEMS adopts a hybrid work model.
GEMS is guided by the principles of employment equity. Preference will be given to groups who are underrepresented in accordance with GEMS employment equity plan.
Successful candidates will be required to seek approval to conduct other work outside of GEMS.
GEMS Employees are required to conduct themselves in a manner that reflects the organisation's paramount values: Excellence, Member Value, Integrity, Innovation, and Collaboration.
