Human resources in health research institutions in sub-Saharan African countries: results of a questionnaire-based survey

ObjectiveTo describe human capacity and staff movement in national health research institutions in 42 sub-Saharan African countries.DesignA structured questionnaire was used to solicit information on governance and stewardship from health research institutions.SettingEight hundred and forty-seven health research institutions in 42 sub-Saharan African countries.ParticipantsKey informants from 847 health research institutions.Main outcome measuresThe availability, mix and quality of human resources in health research institutions.ResultsOn average, there were 122 females employed per respondent health research institution, compared with 159 males. For researchers, the equivalent figures were nine females to 17 males. The average annual gross salary of researchers varied between US$ 12,260 for staff with 5–10 years of experience and US$ 14,772 for the institution head. Of those researchers who had joined the institution in the previous 12 months, 55% were employed on a full-time basis. Of the researchers who...