Clinical Research Coordinator Job Vacancy in Bwiam, Gambia – Healthcare & Medical Research

Job Description

Position:Clinical Research Coordinator

Company:Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research

Location:Bwiam, Gambia

Experience:Minimum 5 years in clinical research coordination, with at least 2 years in a supervisory role within a clinical trial setting. Experience in Sub-Saharan Africa research contexts preferred.

Education:Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Life Sciences, Public Health, or related field required. Master’s degree or professional certification in Clinical Research (e.g., CCRP, CCRC) is a significant advantage.

Employment Type:Full-time

Industry:Healthcare & Medical Research

Department:Clinical Operations

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Novartis Institutes for BioMedical Research (NIBR) is the innovation engine of Novartis, focusing on powerful new technologies that have the potential to help produce therapeutic breakthroughs for patients. As a global leader in biomedical research, we are committed to reimagining medicine to improve and extend people’s lives. Our presence in The Gambia is part of a dedicated initiative to advance clinical research in areas of high unmet medical need, particularly in infectious diseases and non-communicable diseases prevalent in West Africa. We collaborate with local healthcare institutions, regulatory bodies, and communities to conduct ethical, high-impact research that contributes to the global scientific community and local health capacity building. This role represents a unique Career Opportunities in Gambia to be at the forefront of medical discovery in a dynamic and collaborative international environment.

Job Overview

We are seeking a highly motivated and detail-oriented Clinical Research Coordinator to lead the operational execution of a pivotal Phase III clinical trial at our research site in Bwiam. This position is central to ensuring the trial is conducted in accordance with the approved protocol, International Conference on Harmonisation Good Clinical Practice (ICH-GCP) guidelines, and all applicable local regulatory requirements. The successful candidate will be the primary point of contact for the study at the site level, responsible for coordinating all aspects of trial conduct from participant recruitment and screening through to close-out. This is a premier Job Vacancy in Gambia for a professional passionate about contributing to groundbreaking medical research that addresses critical health challenges. You will work closely with principal investigators, clinical staff, data management teams, and the sponsor’s monitoring staff. For more Jobs in Gambia across various sectors, visit https://gambiajobsearch.com.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee the day-to-day operations of the assigned clinical trial at the Bwiam research site, ensuring compliance with the protocol and regulatory standards.
• Coordinate participant recruitment, screening, informed consent process, scheduling of visits, and follow-up procedures.
• Prepare and submit all necessary documentation to the local Institutional Review Board (IRB) and regulatory authorities for initial approval and continuing review.
• Manage the collection, completion, and timely submission of accurate Case Report Forms (CRFs) and source documentation.
• Ensure the proper handling, accountability, and storage of investigational product and trial-related materials.
• Facilitate monitoring visits, audits, and inspections by sponsor representatives and regulatory agencies, addressing queries promptly.
• Train and supervise site staff on protocol-specific procedures, GCP, and data entry requirements.
• Maintain strict confidentiality of participant information and adhere to data protection regulations.
• Manage the trial budget and resources at the site level, including equipment and supplies.
• Prepare regular reports on trial progress, including recruitment rates, data quality, and any adverse events or protocol deviations.

Required Skills

• In-depth knowledge of ICH-GCP guidelines and local Gambian clinical trial regulations.
• Exceptional organizational, project management, and multi-tasking abilities in a fast-paced research environment.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for effective interaction with study participants, healthcare professionals, and international research teams.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy in data collection and documentation.
• Proficiency in clinical trial management systems (CTMS) and electronic data capture (EDC) software.
• Ability to solve problems proactively and work independently with minimal supervision.
• Cultural sensitivity and the ability to work effectively within the local community context of Bwiam and surrounding areas.
• Fluency in English (written and spoken); proficiency in local languages (e.g., Mandinka, Fula, Wolof) is a strong asset.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Biomedical Sciences, Public Health, Pharmacy, or a directly related scientific field is mandatory. Candidates holding a Master’s degree in Clinical Research, Epidemiology, or Public Health will be given priority. Professional certification as a Clinical Research Coordinator (CCRC) or Professional (CCRP) is highly desirable and demonstrates a committed understanding of industry standards, enhancing prospects for Employment in Gambia in this specialized field.

Experience

A minimum of five years of hands-on experience coordinating clinical trials is required, with at least two years in a site leadership or supervisory capacity. Proven experience in patient-facing clinical research roles within The Gambia or similar West African settings is essential. Experience with vaccine trials or studies in infectious diseases (e.g., malaria, tuberculosis, HIV) is a significant advantage. The ideal candidate will have a track record of successful participant recruitment and retention and navigating the local ethical and regulatory submission processes.

Benefits

• Competitive salary package commensurate with experience and qualifications.
• Comprehensive health, dental, and life insurance coverage.
• Provident fund contributions.
• Continuous professional development allowances and opportunities for international training.
• Performance-based annual bonus.
• Relocation assistance (if applicable).
• Paid time off and observance of local public holidays.
• Opportunity to contribute to meaningful research with a tangible impact on public health in The Gambia and beyond.

Training

• Extensive initial onboarding on Novartis-specific systems, SOPs, and the specific trial protocol.
• Regular GCP and protocol-specific refresher training.
• Opportunities for advanced training in clinical data management, regulatory affairs, and project management.
• Sponsorship to attend relevant regional and international scientific conferences and workshops.
• Leadership and management skill development programs.

Working Environment

You will be based at a modern, well-equipped clinical research facility in Bwiam, working within a collaborative and multidisciplinary team of local and international experts. The environment is professional, patient-centric, and driven by scientific integrity and ethical conduct. This role may require occasional travel within The Gambia for investigator meetings or training sessions. We foster a culture of innovation, respect, and continuous learning, making this an excellent opportunity for Hiring in Gambia talent seeking to advance their career in global health research.

Application Process

Interested and qualified candidates are invited to submit their updated CV and a cover letter detailing their suitability for the role via the Novartis career portal. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. The selection process may include multiple interview stages and a practical assessment. https://www.somaliajobsearch.com/

Equal Opportunity Statement

Novartis is committed to building an outstanding, inclusive work environment and diverse teams representative of the patients and communities we serve. We are an equal opportunity employer and value diversity at our company. We do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for Gambia Jobs without regard to any such protected status.