Jobs at HSRC

Minimum Requirements    

• A doctorate (PhD) in the social or economic sciences or related disciplines;
• An established research career as evidenced by publications. For SRS/M – at least seven (7) peer reviewed publications in accredited academic journals some of which to be first / sole authored coupled with several years’ experience post PhD qualification
• Excellent writing skills necessary for publication in internationally accredited peer-reviewed academic  journals, and for drafting briefing papers and reports;
• Record of raising funds for research.
• An interest in one of the priority research areas of DCES will be an advantage;
• A sound grounding in research methods, especially quantitative approaches, will be a strong recommendation;
• The versatility to apply quantitative and qualitative methodologies to challenging subject matter across disciplinary boundaries will be advantageous
• Intellectual and personal integrity, imagination and drive;
• A strong user orientation, based on a commitment to social research that makes a difference;
• The ability and enthusiasm to engage as a team player in large scale multidisciplinary research projects, to manage research teams, and to mentor and train team members.

Duties & Responsibilities    

• Conducting high level scholarly research which meets the challenge of peer review, and has both strategic and policy relevance;
• Responding to requests for tenders and formulating grant applications;
• Managing research teams and large scale long term research projects;
• Proposal writing to secure external funds;
• Mentor fellow employees and emerging researchers;
• Deliver high-quality results and reports to meet set budgets and deadlines;
• Network with major users and funders of social science research to understand their research needs;
• Communicate research findings through modalities like policy briefs;
• Publish in refereed journals;
• Build national and international research links; and
• Manage staff and build capacity within the division.

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Job Advert Summary    

The Developmental, Capable and Ethical State (DCES) is a research division within the HSRC that employs a multi-disciplinary group of social scientists who conduct numerous empirical and policy-related studies.

The DCES division is looking to appoint a suitably qualified professional in the position of Chief Research Specialist. This position supports and assists the Divisional Executive and the Strategic Leads in implementing the five-year strategic plan of the HSRC. The Developmental, Capable and Ethical State (DCES) division conducts transdisciplinary, intersectional, policy and programme-relevant research. The two over-arching questions that guide the research interventions are:

How to strengthen democracy through transparent governance, accountable leadership and reinvigorated public participation/ civic engagement; and

How to ensure sustainable development through peace, human and social security

A developmental, capable and ethical state is not possible without ensuring peace and sustainable security within South Africa and beyond its borders. In order to work towards a more socially cohesive citizenry and safer and resilient communities, it is necessary to focus on building a “better South Africa, a better Africa and a better world.”

The Vision of DCES is for it to be a national, regional and international hub for transformative research in the interests of a just and equal society.

The Mission of DCES is for it to conduct cutting edge research in the areas of peace, human security, sustainability, democracy, governance and citizenship in an engaged manner that focuses on building a better life for all.

Minimum Requirements    

• A doctorate (PhD) in the social or economic sciences or related disciplines;
• An established research career as evidenced by publications.
• at least six years’ experience post qualification coupled with 12 or more peer-reviewed publications of which several to be international;
• Excellent writing skills necessary for publication in internationally accredited peer-reviewed academic journals, and for drafting briefing papers and reports;
• Record of raising funds for research. Applicants applying for the CRS/M position should have larger fundraising experience;
• An interest in one of the priority research areas of DCES will be an advantage;
• A sound grounding in research methods, especially quantitative approaches, will be a strong recommendation;
• The versatility to apply quantitative and qualitative methodologies to challenging subject matter across disciplinary boundaries will be advantageous
• Intellectual and personal integrity, imagination and drive;
• A strong user orientation, based on a commitment to social research that makes a difference;
• The ability and enthusiasm to engage as a team player in large-scale multidisciplinary research projects, to manage research teams, and to mentor and train team members
• Communicate research findings through modalities like policy briefs;
• Publish in refereed journals;
• Build national and international research links; and
• Manage staff and build capacity within the division

Duties & Responsibilities    

• Conducting high level scholarly research which meets the challenge of peer review, and has both strategic and policy relevance;
• Responding to requests for tenders and formulating grant applications;
• Managing research teams and large scale long term research projects;
• Proposal writing to secure external funds;
• Mentor fellow employees and emerging researchers;
• Deliver high-quality results and reports to meet set budgets and deadlines;
• Network with major users and funders of social science research to understand their research needs;

go to method of application »

Minimum Requirements    
AISA is committed to creating an inclusive and enabling environment where employees are valued for their skills, strengths, talents and perspectives that contribute to a shared vision. Our work in 90% in the regions of Africa, which we regard as our workplace. At AISA, we are committed to research that is relevant, timely and intentional about the developmental needs. We seek to connect with the rest of the Continent through exciting engagement programs and strategies which will enhance impact visibility of HSRC in collaboration with stakeholders and partners.

• PhD Degree in development studies, or political sciences
• Proven experience in manuscript development
• Ability to understand and develop mixed method approach to research
• Strong written and oral communication skills in English and excellent interpersonal communication skills. French language will be an added advantage,
• Ability to handle projects of strategic importance to regional strategies for development and positive about working in a fast-paced environment;
• Strong interpersonal and communications skills, and the ability to co-ordinate and capacitate staff;
• Demonstrable proficiency with Microsoft Word, Excel, PowerPoint, and other accounting tools.  
• Must have intellectual and personal integrity, with a well-developed work ethic and drive, and an aptitude for innovation;
• Should be able to work under pressure, and after hours when required to meet deadlines;
• Must be able to work proactively and independently;

Duties & Responsibilities    

The researcher we seek to appoint on a short term basis needs to be engaged in governance, peace and security challenges particularly in South Sudan. Expected qualities include considerable exposure to African affairs including protocols of the African Union, a proven ability to easily distill the geopolitics and communicate complex research informed gaps and knowledge. The ideal candidate has an ability to manage tight deadlines, communicate to policy makers through policy brief, and journal article. Ability to link research findings & knowledge to policy informing platforms will be an added advantage. The candidate sought will provide research and support the special project on South Sudan.

Responsibilities:

• Understand the HSRC’s strategy and the mandate of AISA, and support regional implementation planned special projects,
• Develop the methodology, literature review and plans for the said projects,
• Develop and execute communications messaging to critical government stakeholders,
• Work with teams across the organisation including operations, researchers, partnerships, the executive responsible to provide strategic guidance and local insights
• Support in preparation for media interviews, presentations, and other speaking engagements,
• Collaborate with the Principal investigators and the team of emerging researchers.