The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) seeks to appoint PhD Research Trainees with a strong interest in the human and social sciences. The successful candidate will contribute to innovative, policy-relevant and interdisciplinary research that addresses South Africa's developmental challenges and advances social transformation.
The programme offers exposure to research across the HSRC's key focus areas, including democracy, governance and citizenship; education, skills and inclusive economic development; public health, public policy, science in society, wellbeing and belonging; and African development, global engagement and sustainable human security, and impact evaluation.
Through its research divisions, the HSRC generates evidence and knowledge that inform policy, strengthen institutions, support inclusive development and contribute to building a capable state, cohesive society and resilient communities.
The HSRC's vision is to be a leading centre of excellence in human and social sciences research, advancing a better South Africa, a better Africa and a better world. Its mission is to conduct impactful research that informs policy and practice, builds research capacity, and promotes social justice, human dignity and sustainable development.
- Applicants must be South Citizens (attach SA ID copy) in possession of a relevant Master’s degree in a human or social science discipline; and be registered for a PhD degree at the time of appointment or register during the first six (6) months of appointment at a recognised South African university;
- Demonstrated interest in, and understanding of, contemporary social, economic, developmental, governance, health, education and public policy issues affecting South Africa, Africa and the broader global context;
- Candidates must indicate an area of interest from those listed
- Knowledge of research methodologies, including qualitative, quantitative and mixed-methods approaches;
- Evidence of strong analytical, research, writing and communication skills;
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively within multidisciplinary research teams;
- A commitment to producing high-quality research outputs and completing a PhD within the prescribed timeframe;
- Demonstrated interest in policy-relevant and socially impactful research that contributes to inclusive development, social justice and human wellbeing; and
- Proficiency in standard research and data analysis software will be an added advantage.
- Sound knowledge of data management, qualitative and quantitative analysis skills will be very advantageous;
- A sound academic record;
- Experience in the preparation of research reports and manuscripts for publication, whilst having peer reviewed articles in recognized journals will be advantageous;
- Experience in communicating research findings at conferences;
- Curiosity, enthusiasm and interest in a research career that includes working with statistics and data analysis;
- Ability to work independently and in a team environment, good communication and leadership skills are required;
- Proficiency in or working experience with some or all of the following programmes: Atlas T, NVIVO, MS Access, Excel, Word, SPSS, STATA;
Attributes:
- Ability to work with limited supervision
- Good communication skills
- Ability to multitask
- Good problem-solving skills
- Good customer Service
The successful candidate will be expected to:
- Contribute to the design, implementation and management of interdisciplinary, policy-relevant research projects and related stakeholder engagement activities;
- Support evidence-informed policy and programme development through research, technical advisory work, and the dissemination of findings to government, academic, civil society and other stakeholder audiences;
- Conduct literature reviews and undertake qualitative and/or quantitative data collection, management, analysis and interpretation;
- Prepare and contribute to research outputs, including reports, policy briefs, fact sheets, peer-reviewed journal articles, conference papers and presentations;
- Present and communicate research findings through workshops, seminars, conferences and other knowledge-sharing platforms;
- Demonstrate satisfactory progress towards the completion of a Doctoral degree within the three-year trainee programme period;
- Develop and strengthen research, analytical and academic competencies through formal and informal training, mentorship and professional development opportunities; and
- Fulfil all duties, deliverables and performance requirements as set out in the individual performance agreement and internship programme.
- The research trainee experience is intensive and requires self-motivated individuals who can work both independently and as part of a team. Successful candidates will be required to balance their research responsibilities with their doctoral studies under a 60/40 work-study arrangement, with dedicated time allocated for the completion of the PhD.
