Research Assistant -Africa Youth Portal

saiia; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 180 000 - 240 000; Full time

Job summary

An independent policy think tank in Johannesburg is seeking a Research Assistant to support a youth research initiative. The ideal candidate should have strong research and analytical skills, a relevant postgraduate qualification, and the ability to manage multiple tasks effectively. This role involves providing logistical support, conducting research, and contributing to policy outputs, aimed at empowering young African researchers.

Qualifications

• 1–2 years of research experience.
• Interest in African policy and global development.
• Excellent attention to detail.

Responsibilities

• Provide administrative and logistical support.
• Assist in planning and coordinating workshops.
• Conduct research and contribute to reports.

Skills

Analytical skills

Research skills

Writing skills

Organizational skills

Team collaboration

Education

Postgraduate qualification in Social Sciences or related field

Job description

Research Assistant – Africa Youth Portal and Research Project

Location: Johannesburg, South Africa

Contract: 12-Month Fixed-Term

Reports to: Head of Youth Programmes

Salary: R180,000 – R240,000 per annum

About SAIIA

The South African Institute of International Affairs (SAIIA) is an independent, non-profit public policy think tank dedicated to leveraging rigorous research and policy engagement to advance a well-governed, peaceful, economically sustainable and globally engaged Africa. For over nine decades, SAIIA has been at the forefront of shaping policy debates on Africa's international relations, governance, and economic development. Through its YouthSAIIA programme, the Institute empowers young Africans (ages 13–25) to participate actively in shaping their communities and the continent’s future.

About the role

SAIIA seeks to appoint a Research Assistant to support the Africa Youth Portal and Research Project, a capacity-building initiative implemented in partnership with the Mastercard Foundation. The project mentors 40 young researchers from across the continent, fostering youth-led research, knowledge sharing, and policy engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide administrative and logistical support for all project activities.
• Assist in planning and coordinating workshops, training sessions, and events.
• Conduct research and contribute to the drafting and editing of reports and knowledge outputs.
• Support stakeholder communications and project documentation.
• Assist in the development of digital and social media content for project visibility.
• Undertake other project‑related administrative and coordination tasks as required.

Requirements

• A relevant postgraduate qualification (Honours or Master’s degree – completed or in progress) in Social Sciences, International Relations, Political Science, Development Studies, Journalism, Economics, or a related field.
• Minimum 1–2 years’ research experience.
• Strong analytical, research, and writing skills.
• Demonstrated interest in African policy, youth leadership, and global development issues.
• Excellent organisational skills, attention to detail, and the ability to manage multiple tasks.
• Ability to work independently, take initiative, and collaborate effectively within a team environment.

How to Apply

Interested candidates should submit a comprehensive CV with a cover letter as one document, and three references on the SAIIA website saiia.org.za / work-with-us / by 07 November 2025.

Why Join SAIIA?

You’ll play a key role in empowering young African researchers, fostering thought leadership, and supporting innovative knowledge platforms.

Preference will be given to South African citizens and employment equity candidates.

SAIIA reserves the right not to make an appointment.