Clinical Research Coordinator Job Vacancy in Gitarama, Rwanda – Healthcare & Clinical Research

Job Description

Position:Clinical Research Coordinator

Company:Novartis Rwanda

Location:Gitarama, Rwanda

Experience:3-5 years

Education:Bachelor’s Degree in Nursing, Life Sciences, or related field; Master’s degree preferred

Employment Type:Full-time

Industry:Healthcare & Clinical Research

Department:Clinical Operations

Vacancies:1

Company Overview

Novartis is a global healthcare leader focused on improving and extending people’s lives through innovative medicines and therapies. With a rich history of scientific discovery and a commitment to reimagining medicine, Novartis operates in over 140 countries, including Rwanda, where we are dedicated to addressing some of society’s most challenging healthcare needs. Our mission is to discover new ways to improve and extend people’s lives, and we use innovative science and technology to develop breakthrough treatments in areas of unmet medical need. In Rwanda, Novartis is at the forefront of advancing clinical research and healthcare access, working closely with local healthcare providers, regulatory bodies, and communities to bring cutting-edge medical solutions to the region. We are committed to ethical research practices, patient safety, and contributing to the strengthening of Rwanda’s healthcare infrastructure. Our presence supports the national vision for a healthier population and a robust clinical research ecosystem.

Job Overview

We are seeking a dedicated and detail-oriented Clinical Research Coordinator to join our team in Gitarama. This role is central to the successful execution of clinical trials and research studies in Rwanda. The coordinator will be responsible for managing all aspects of clinical trial activities at the site level, ensuring compliance with protocols, regulatory requirements, and ethical standards. This position offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking medical research that can transform patient care in Rwanda and beyond. The ideal candidate will be passionate about clinical research, possess excellent organizational skills, and have a strong understanding of Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines. You will work closely with investigators, study participants, and the broader Novartis clinical operations team. This is a pivotal role for anyone looking to advance their career in clinical research within a leading global pharmaceutical company. For more Rwanda Jobs and Career Opportunities in Rwanda, visit our partner site. https://rwandajobsearch.com

Key Responsibilities

• Coordinate and manage the day-to-day activities of clinical trials at the assigned research site in Gitarama.
• Ensure strict adherence to study protocols, Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs), and Good Clinical Practice (GCP) guidelines.
• Recruit, screen, enroll, and obtain informed consent from eligible study participants.
• Schedule and coordinate participant visits, procedures, and follow-ups, ensuring accurate and timely data collection.
• Maintain essential regulatory documents and ensure the site is always inspection-ready for internal and external audits.
• Serve as the primary liaison between the investigational site, sponsors, and ethics committees.
• Manage the collection, processing, and shipment of laboratory specimens as per protocol requirements.
• Report and document adverse events and protocol deviations promptly and accurately.
• Ensure the proper storage, accountability, and dispensing of investigational products.
• Train and supervise site staff on protocol-specific procedures and GCP requirements.
• Prepare and submit regular progress reports to the study sponsor and relevant regulatory bodies.

Required Skills

• In-depth knowledge of clinical research methodology, GCP, and local regulatory requirements in Rwanda.
• Exceptional organizational, time-management, and multitasking abilities.
• Strong interpersonal and communication skills for effective interaction with participants, healthcare professionals, and research teams.
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy in data management and documentation.
• Proficiency in using electronic data capture (EDC) systems and clinical trial management software.
• Ability to work independently, solve problems proactively, and make sound decisions.
• Cultural sensitivity and the ability to work effectively in a diverse community setting.
• Fluency in English and Kinyarwanda; knowledge of French is an advantage.

Education

A Bachelor’s degree in Nursing, Biomedical Sciences, Pharmacy, Public Health, or a related life sciences field is required. A Master’s degree in Clinical Research, Public Health, or a relevant discipline is highly preferred. Certification as a Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) or similar credential is a significant advantage. Continuous professional development in clinical research ethics and regulations is expected.

Experience

A minimum of 3-5 years of hands-on experience coordinating clinical trials, preferably within a hospital, research institute, or pharmaceutical/CRO environment. Proven experience in patient recruitment, consenting, data collection, and regulatory submission processes in Rwanda is essential. Experience working on international, multi-center trials is highly desirable.

Benefits

• Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits package aligned with industry standards.
• Extensive health, dental, and vision insurance for you and your dependents.
• Generous paid time off, including vacation, sick leave, and public holidays.
• Continuous professional development and training opportunities in global clinical research standards.
• Contribution to a pension savings plan.
• Performance-based annual bonus and recognition programs.
• Opportunity to work on cutting-edge research that impacts global health.
• Supportive and collaborative work environment within a global leader in healthcare.

Training

• Comprehensive onboarding program covering Novartis protocols, systems, and safety standards.
• Ongoing training in Good Clinical Practice (GCP), protocol-specific procedures, and data management systems.
• Sponsorship for relevant external certifications and workshops in clinical research.
• Leadership and soft skills development programs.
• Regular updates on changes in national and international clinical research regulations.

Working Environment

You will be based at a clinical research site in Gitarama, working in a dynamic, patient-centric, and scientifically rigorous environment. The role involves a mix of office-based tasks and direct interaction with study participants and clinical staff. We foster a culture of integrity, patient focus, and scientific curiosity. This role is ideal for a professional seeking meaningful Employment in Rwanda within the vital healthcare sector.

Application Process

Interested candidates who meet the above qualifications are invited to submit their updated CV and a cover letter through the official Novartis careers portal. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for interviews. The selection process may include multiple interview stages and a practical assessment. We are committed to a transparent and timely recruitment process for all Jobs in Rwanda.

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 do not discriminate on the basis of race, religion, color, national origin, gender, sexual orientation, age, marital status, veteran status, or disability status. We encourage all qualified individuals to apply for this Job Vacancy in Rwanda. For more opportunities across the region, explore https://www.botswanajobsearch.com/.