Senior Administrator: Office Of The Director For Research And Innovation

University Of Fort Hare; East London; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading higher education institution in East London seeks an administrative professional to support research activities. Candidates should possess an undergraduate degree and relevant administrative experience in a Higher Education setting. Key responsibilities include processing documents, organizing events, and providing support for Research Ethics activities. Strong communication and computer skills are essential. Closing date for applications is 26 October 2025.

Qualifications

• At least 2 years experience in administration in a Higher Education environment.
• At least 1 year experience with Research Ethics clearance processes.

Responsibilities

• Process documents for Director's approval from various research entities.
• Draft motivation letters for payments.
• Organise workshops and departmental events.
• Compile statistics for the annual research report.
• Provide administrative support for Research Ethics activities.

Skills

Computer competency in Microsoft Office

Good interpersonal skills

Detail-oriented

Time management competency

Problem-solving capability

Strong communication skills

Education

Undergraduate degree in a relevant field

Honours degree or higher qualification

Job description

Minimum Requirements

• Undergraduate degree in a relevant field
• At least 2 years experience in administration in a Higher Education environment, preferably in a research office.
• At least 1 year experience in the process of Research Ethics clearance of research projects in a Higher Education environment.

Added Advantages and Preferences

• Experience in compiling content for institutional annual reports
• Familiarity with logistical preparations for hosting large research colloquia and conferences.
• Training in Research Ethics
• Knowledge of and experience in running online research ethics application system
• Honours degree or higher qualification is an added advantage

Duties & Responsibilities Include

• Receiving and processing documents for Directors approval from Department of Research and Innovation (DRI) Units, Research Niche Areas (RNAs), Research Chairs, Research Institutes, Research Centres, Researchers, and other UFH research entities.
• Drafting motivation letters for payments for services or products
• Processing quotations, invoices and requisitions for payments
• Organising quarterly departmental staff workshop
• Drafting programmes for departmental workshops or events
• Coordinating logistical arrangements for the annual UFH Research Week of Excellence
• Coordinating logistical arrangements for DRI events (e.g. launching of new programmes, research entities or online processes)
• Compiling information and statistics for the annual UFH Research Report
• Coordinating process of taking photographs of authors of articles and research facilities for the UFH Research Report.
• Writing minutes of meetings
• Providing central administrative support for UFH Research Ethics activities
• Providing central support for the online Research Ethics application system
• Ensuring that RECs submit mandatory annual reports to the National Health Research Ethics Council (NHREC).
• Coordinating meetings for the Director and for the Department

Competencies

• Computer competency in the Microsoft pack (Excel, PowerPoint)
• A high level of professional and ethical conduct.
• Good interpersonal skills
• Communication skills
• Detail-oriented
• Time management competency
• Problem-solving capability

Closing Date : 26 October 2025

Interested applicants who meet the criteria are invited to :