Chief Research Specialist

HSRC (Human Sciences Research Council); Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,300,000; Full time

Job summary

HSRC’s Research Impact Division in Pretoria invites applications for Chief Research Specialist (2 positions) on a permanent contract. The role requires a PhD and extensive policy-relevant research experience in impact evaluation studies.

The CRS will lead high-level research initiatives aimed at translating findings into social impact within South Africa’s development priorities. Based in the HSRC office in Pretoria, the CRS roles focus on producing rigorous evidence that informs policy and

Qualifications

• PhD required with extensive policy-relevant research experience.

Skills

Policy-relevant research

Impact evaluation studies

Education

PhD

Job description

In delivering ‘social science that makes a difference’ in South Africa and the region, the Research Units of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Pietermaritzburg, and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act of 2008.

The Research Impact division (RID) plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the Human Sciences Research Council’s (HSRC) work extends beyond academic outputs to create real and lasting change in society. Our mission is to support, strengthen, and institutionalise the impact of HSRC research by aligning it with South Africa’s development priorities and the broader African and global context.

The Research Impact Division comprises four interconnected units, each contributing to our overarching goal of translating research into measurable impact: Impact Evaluation; HSRC Press; Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development; Internationalisation; and Governance, Ethics and Integrity. Together, these units ensure that the HSRC’s research is not only rigorous and relevant but also transformative to shape a more inclusive, informed, and just society.

RID seeks to appoint a Chief Research Specialist on a permanent contract based in the HSRC’s office, Pretoria.

To be eligible for appointment as a CRS, the candidate must have a PhD and extensive knowledge of policy-relevant research experience in impact evaluation studies.

External Applicants

Chief Research Specialist (2x Positions)

Ref. No: External RID-CRS

Permanent contract