Doctoral Research & Programs Lead

MANCOSA; Durban; On-site; ZAR 900,000 - 1,200,000; Full time

Job summary

MANCOSA, a DHET registered private higher education distance education provider, invites applications for the role of Senior Research Associate in Durban. This position supports the Doctoral Research Office, helping doctoral students progress and ensuring quality and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate holds a doctoral degree and has experience in research development or management, with strong analytical, writing and governance capabilities, willing to travel as needed.

Qualifications

• A completed Doctoral degree is essential.
• Experience in higher education research development or research management preferred.
• Strong written and verbal communication.
• Knowledge of doctoral thesis lifecycle and governance.
• Ability to work independently and manage multiple priorities.
• Willingness to travel and work outside hours.

Responsibilities

• Lead and support initiatives to improve doctoral progression, engagement and completion.
• Monitor doctoral student progress and coordinate interventions for at-risk students.
• Coordinate doctoral student orientation, induction, and research workshops.
• Support supervisor-student engagement and interventions for challenges.
• Assist with doctoral assessment processes and review theses for readiness.
• Prepare reports on progression, programme performance and student success.
• Ensure compliance with doctoral policies, procedures and regulatory requirements.
• Develop governance documents and operational frameworks.
• Monitor research policies, SOPs, ethics requirements and governance frameworks.
• Coordinate quality assurance reviews and doctoral programme audits.

Skills

Excellent communication

Analytical thinking

Project management

Stakeholder engagement

Independent work

Attention to detail

Education

Doctoral degree (PhD/DPhil)

Higher Education Management / Research Management / Quality Assurance (advantageous)

Job description

MANCOSA, a DHET registered private higher education distance education provider, invites applications for the role of Senior Research Associate in Durban. This position supports the Doctoral Research Office, helping doctoral students progress and ensuring quality and regulatory compliance.

The ideal candidate holds a doctoral degree and has experience in research development or management, with strong analytical, writing and governance capabilities, willing to travel as needed.