Associate Professor or Professor – Head of NCD Theme

Medical Research Council/Uganda Virus Research Institute and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine Uganda Research Unit (MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit) is one of Africa’s leading research institutions. Established in 1988 to improve the understanding and control of the HIV epidemic, the Unit has evolved to address a wide range of pressing global challenges – from emerging and re-emerging infections to non-communicable diseases.  

The Unit’s science is structured around three interlinked research Themes: Viral Pathogens, Vaccine Research, and Non-Communicable Diseases (NCD), each led by a senior scientist and supported by strong social science integration. The NCD Theme aims to undertake world-leading research to understand how local genetic and environmental exposures, such as infections and malnutrition, shape unique manifestations of NCDs in sub-Saharan Africa. Better understanding of the fundamental underlying mechanisms will inform the best ways to prevent and treat these disorders. Current focus areas of research are cardiometabolic disorders (notably diabetes), mental health, health and quality of life of people with disabilities, and emotional stress and violence, particularly in adolescents and young people.

The MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit is now seeking to appoint a new Theme Lead for NCD Theme. This is a unique opportunity to lead and shape a programme of world-leading research, leveraging one of Africa’s strongest research infrastructures. The Theme Lead plays a critical role for the Unit in assessing scientific opportunities for the Unit and driving forward cutting-edge research programmes. This Theme Lead appointment is being made alongside recruitment to the Viral Pathogens Theme Lead, creating a rare opportunity for new senior leaders to work together to shape a truly integrated, cross-Theme scientific strategy. In close partnership with the Vaccine Research Theme and the Unit Director, the successful candidates will help define a coherent Unit-wide vision that aligns discovery science with translational impact. Together, they will contribute to delivering the MRC’s mission to improve human health and drive economic growth through a mechanistic understanding of biology and disease, enabling earlier diagnosis, advanced therapies, and precision prevention.

The new Theme Lead will be a [dynamic] research leader with expertise and a strong track record in NCDs. The appointee will have proven experience of leading impactful, multidisciplinary research and of securing significant competitive grant funding. The appointee will combine a strong record of strategic leadership, vision-setting, and managing collaborative research programmes with a commitment to mentoring, capacity building, and fostering equitable partnerships in global health research. The Theme Lead will have a passion for collaborative, cross-cultural science with real-world impact.

How to Apply 

MRC/UVRI and LSHTM Uganda Research Unit has engaged the services of Perrett Laver to assist with the appointment process. The closing date for applications is 9am BST on Monday 18^th May 2026. For more information, please visit the Perrett Laver website at https://plusportal.perrettlaver.com/ quoting reference 8375. 

Application is by submission of a curriculum vitae and a covering letter of application, addressing the job description and person specification.

If you wish to discuss this role further in confidence, please contact:

Dr Devin Dattan at Devin.Dattan@perrettlaver.com. 

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Esther Elbro on Esther.Elbro@perrettlaver.com. 

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