The fellowships target doctoral graduates who wish to pursue a career in health policy and systems research, specifically research on the health workforce. The fellows will work on one of the pre-defined topics below but within this will be expected to develop an independent contribution to the research in collaboration with the wider AFRHiCARE partners. This could provide opportunities for cross-country comparative research as well as more specific research in South Africa. The successful candidates will also have the opportunity to learn about new research methods, such as realist reviews, and travel and collaborate with counterparts in Kenya, Uganda, and the United Kingdom. The postdoctoral fellows could contribute to teaching and postgraduate supervision activities linked to these research areas in the Wits SPH, provided that these are in accordance with relevant policies, including the National Research Foundation guidelines and the South Africa Revenue Service regulations on the remuneration of postdoctoral research fellows.
The Wits SPH offers a dynamic environment in which to grow, conduct cutting-edge, multi-disciplinary research, publish, network, and engage in national and international health policy debates. The successful candidates will work under the mentorship and guidance of the SARChI Chair, Professor Laetitia Rispel.
Eligibility
1. A PhD in public health, health economics, or biostatistics obtained within the past five years. Applicants who did not obtain their doctorate in South Africa should have a valid SAQA certificate at the time of application.
2. Familiarity with the field of health policy and systems research, specifically HRH or healthcare management research.
3. Advanced research skills, preferably both quantitative and qualitative research methods
4. Ability to work with various data sources, platforms, and software such as STATA as well as MAXQDA or NVivo for qualitative data.
5. At least two peer-reviewed publications in accredited journals.
6. A go-getter, willing and able to work in a multidisciplinary team environment.
7. Ability to meet and honour deadlines.
8. Younger than or equal to 40 years of age.
9. Advanced English language proficiency.
Advantageous skills
1. Experience in research project management and ability to liaise with diverse stakeholders.
2. Good interpersonal skills.
3. Excellent communication skills, including the ability to convey complex ideas to both technical and non-technical audiences.
4. Postgraduate supervision experience.
5. Knowledge and/or experience of African health systems
6. Collaborate with multi-disciplinary teams, including researchers, faculty, and industry partners.
The fellowship is initially tenable for one year starting in 2026 and is valued at R370 000 per annum (tax-free). Renewal for a second year will be considered depending on satisfactory progress and continued funding.
