Senior Research Specialist

HSRC; Pretoria; Hybrid; ZAR 70 000 - 90 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading research institute in Pretoria is seeking a Senior Research Specialist. The ideal candidate will have a Ph.D. and at least 5 years of research experience, focusing on governance and human rights in Africa. Responsibilities include research funding proposals, publishing scientific articles, and collaborating on international projects. Candidates must demonstrate advanced quantitative and qualitative research skills and be prepared to travel for data collection. This position encourages applications from South African citizens, especially women and individuals with disabilities.

Qualifications

• Minimum of 5 years' experience in a research environment.
• At least 7 publications in peer-reviewed journals.
• Experience in good governance, human rights, and rule of law research.

Responsibilities

• Contribute to research funding proposals and publish articles.
• Plan and conduct policy-relevant research.
• Collaborate with colleagues and engage stakeholders.
• Travel for data collection and public engagement.
• Co-develop AI research and address climate change issues.

Skills

Proficiency in quantitative research methods

Proficiency in qualitative research methods

Advanced statistical analysis using software

Experience in conducting research in Africa

Ability to engage with high-level stakeholders

Education

Ph.D. qualification in relevant field

Job description

Job title: Senior Research Specialist

Job Location: Gauteng, Pretoria

Deadline: 21st November 2025

Application Information

• Applicants are invited to apply for the Senior Research Specialist (SRS) position in AISA within the Africa, BRICS and the Global South Division. While we seek to appoint an individual who has a background in humanities and social sciences, the candidate that is ideal should be able to demonstrate use of technology and the ability to create a multi-disciplinary approach to research. The role will, from time-to-time, demand working outside South Africa as per the mandate needs of AISA. We encourage female and / or people who are differently-abled and who are South African Citizens to apply.

Minimum Requirements

• A relevant Ph.D. (NQF 10) qualification and experience in the social, natural or economic sciences with at least 5 years in a research environment.
• At least 7 publications in peer-reviewed journals i.e. accredited.
• Proven experience in conducting / implementing in-depth research in other African countries.

Additional Requirements

• Seasoned researcher in the areas of good governance, human rights, and the rule of law in Africa.
• Special interest in the areas of Agenda 2063 and SADC frameworks i.e. STI protocol, including intersectional challenges in Africa’s development
• Demonstrable ability to create ways of producing cutting‑edge research outputs.
• Experience in quantitative and qualitative research approaches and the ability to undertake advanced statistical analysis using appropriate / relevant software.

Duties & Responsibilities

• The candidate is expected to contribute to research funding proposals, publish journal articles and book chapters in a scientific manner i.e. accredited and open access (where possible).
• Ability to plan deliverables to enhance the Institute’s performance profile and conduct policy‑relevant and engaged research.
• Collaborating with other colleagues working on existing or new projects, engaging high‑level stakeholders through evidence dissemination or consultative strategy within and outside South Africa’s borders.
• The successful incumbent will be expected to travel to countries of interest as part of the data collection for research projects – this will be part of advancing mutual co‑delivery with strategic partners where necessary, as well as delivering on public engagement with scholars, researchers, and policymakers.
• The preferred candidate should be versatile and able to fit in a fast‑paced environment.
• Co‑develop and / or be able to work on Artificial Intelligence research and policy gaps in Africa, use of technology and innovation to respond to climate change in Africa. The incumbent is not limited to performing in the aforementioned areas, it will be crucial to think beyond areas of specialisation.
• It is anticipated that the appointed candidate will also endeavour to create an enabling environment for emerging researchers and identify opportunities for AISA research outcomes to be applied through collaboration on the continent.

Research / Data Analysis jobs