Director, Research Strategy & Funding

Rhodes University; Makhanda; On-site; ZAR 1,500,000 - 1,900,000; Full time

Job summary

Rhodes University invites suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Director: Research. The role is to be the strategic enabler of a thriving research culture and to strengthen the University’s reputation as a research-intensive institution.

The Director will lead the Research Office, drive funding initiatives, manage day-to-day operations, and work closely with faculties, research entities, and professional support divisions to maximise external funding while supporting

Qualifications

• PhD degree and approximately 10 years’ relevant experience in research leadership or managing a research support department.
• Experience in securing research funding or postgraduate training.
• At least 3 years’ senior-level management/leadership experience.
• Knowledge of national and international funding agencies and collaborations.
• Experience designing funding instruments to support strategic research objectives.
• Experience in research strategy formulation and implementation.
• Experience directing and managing significant research projects and budgets.

Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership to strengthen Rhodes University’s research culture and capabilities.
• Ensure efficient and responsive research support services across the University.
• Lead and manage day-to-day operations of the Research Office.
• Collaborate with researchers, faculties, and professional support divisions to maximise external funding.
• Represent the division in senior management and governance forums.

Skills

Research leadership

Grant acquisition

Strategic planning

Budget management

Team leadership

International collaborations

Education

PhD degree

Job description

Rhodes University invites suitably qualified candidates to apply for the position of Director: Research. The role is to be the strategic enabler of a thriving research culture and to strengthen the University’s reputation as a research-intensive institution.

The Director will lead the Research Office, drive funding initiatives, manage day-to-day operations, and work closely with faculties, research entities, and professional support divisions to maximise external funding while supporting