POST-DOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE (PDRA) POLICY TRANSLATION & SCIENCE INTEGRATION RESEARCH SCIENTIST

VACANCY ANNOUNCEMENT@ Malawi Liverpool Wellcome Research Programme

POSITION: POST-DOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE (PDRA) POLICY TRANSLATION & SCIENCE INTEGRATION RESEARCH SCIENTIST

Location: Blantyre

Job Description The Malawi-Liverpool-Wellcome Research Programme (MLW) is a world-class health research institution committed to improving health through research, capacity building, and strong partnerships.

The Malawi–Liverpool–Wellcome Research Programme (MLW) is seeking to hire a Post-Doctoral Research Associate (PDRA) Policy Translation & Science Integration Research Scientist who shall be based within the Policy Unit department and reports to the Senior Policy Scientist / Head of Policy Research & Team Science Integration.

The position is tenable at MLW head offices in Blantyre.

Responsibilities KEY ACCOUNTABILITIES / RESPONSIBILITIES

Science Integration and Team-Science Interface Work closely with research teams to interpret findings in policy-relevant ways and shape outputs early (not post hoc). They will also participate in key research processes including but not limited to protocol discussions and analysis interpretation meetings. Furthermore, they will support researchers to frame findings for policy relevance without compromising scientific integrity.

Policy Translation & Product Development Ensure outputs clearly articulate relevant and actionable messaging including policy options, trade-offs, implementation implications, among others. They will lead the development of high-quality policy products including but not limited to: Policy briefings, Evidence summarizing, Decision-support tooling, Technical advisory notes

Alignment with Evidence Synthesis & Analytics Collaborate closely with the Evidence Synthesis & AI Lead to among other things translate synthesis outputs into policy-ready formats and ensure consistency between analysis and messaging. Identify priority areas where synthesis should be commissioned to support policy engagement

Innovation in Translation Approaches (With support) Develop and test new formats for evidence translation including among others, interactive briefs, dashboards, policy tools. They will also introduce structured approaches to “living evidence” translation and rapid response outputs and continuously improve how MLW packages and delivers research and other evidence.

Support to Embedded Policy Engagement Work with embedded policy researchers to among other things, co-develop outputs for specific policy audiences and align products with engagement strategies. They will ensure translation products are timely, context-aware and strategically positioned.

Innovation Liaison Be a bridge with the Translation and Innovation team to ensure Policy is embedded and synergistic with that portfolio and vice versa, that innovation and translation is embedded and aligned with the work done in the policy portfolio.

Capacity, Quality Assurance & Standards Establish and maintain institutional standards for policy products, clarity and accessibility and methodological integrity in translation. They will ensure outputs are credible, balanced and ethically communicated. They will also ensure (in liaison with the policy capacity lead) that capabilities to do translation within MLW are excellent.

Policy Research Participate in the growing research portfolio of Health Systems and Policy, as a lead on a given project or as part of teams within the Policy Unit.

Requirements QUALIFICATIONS: (i.e. Education, Training and Experience Requirements).

Education

PhD in public policy, health policy, public health, knowledge management or related field. A major or focus on areas of knowledge translation is an advantage. Experience

At least 4 years’ relevant experience working at the intersection of science or research and policy or decision-making. Strong experience translating scientific evidence for policy audiences. Working with or in policy and decision-making spaces, organizations or in science advisory at local, national or global levels. Demonstrable ability to engage deeply with both quantitative and qualitative research, including a range of the methodologies used in both. Knowledge of or use of both conventional and unconventional policy research methods is an added advantage. Strong writing and analytical skills.

KEY COMPENTENCIES / ATTRBUTES AND SKILLS (e.g. Skills, Personality, Communication, Teamwork etc)

Boundary-spanning mindset – able to work across disparate groups, ideas, or networks to solve complex problems and drive innovation. High intellectual rigor with practical orientation. Comfort working in evolving, non-linear environments. Ability to challenge both scientists and policymakers constructively. Able to lead multiple mini projects and/or thematic communities of practice.

REMUNERATION AND BENEFITS

MLW offers an attractive remuneration package which includes a competitive salary package commensurate with the position, a medical aid scheme, 24-hour insurance cover, pension scheme, gratuity benefits redeemable at the end of each contract cycle, among others.

MLW also offers opportunities such as scholarships, upgrading and training opportunities to employees. These are based on successful job performance and other set criteria.

Further details of the organization and the role can be found by visiting our website: www.mlw.mw

Applications should be received not later than 24th April 2026. Those interested should submit their application and a detailed CV with three traceable referees (including at least two professional referees) to vacancies@mlw.mw. All documents should be submitted in one pdf file with subject line clearly indicating the position being applied for i.e. POST-DOCTORAL RESEARCH ASSOCIATE (PDRA) POLICY TRANSLATION & SCIENCE INTEGRATION RESEARCH SCIENTIST.

MLW recognizes its responsibility in safeguarding and protecting communities, research participants and patients with whom MLW is working. Please note that successful candidates will be requested to undergo a safeguarding check prior to appointment and at regular time points during employment.

ONLY SHORT-LISTED CANDIDATES WILL BE ACKNOWLEDGED.