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HUMAN SCIENCE RESEARCH COUNCIL (HSRC)

 

 

 

STAKEHOLDER AND PARTNERSHIP OFFICER

 

Details

Closing Date

2026/07/24

Reference Number

HSR260707-1

Job Type

Permanent

Job Title

Stakeholder and Partnership Officer

Business Area

Research Impact Division

Department

Research Impact Division

Number of Positions

1

Workplace Type

Hybrid

Location - Town / City

Pretoria

Location - Province

Gauteng

Location - Country

South Africa

Minimum Education Level

NQF 7 - Degree or equivalent

Application Closing Date

24-Jul-2026

Job Category

Other

 

Job Advert Summary

In delivering ‘social science that makes a difference’ in South Africa and the region, the Research Units of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Pietermaritzburg, and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act of 2008.

The Research Impact division (RID) plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the Human Sciences Research Council’s (HSRC) work extends beyond academic outputs to create real and lasting change in society. Our mission is to support, strengthen, and institutionalise the impact of HSRC research by aligning it with South Africa’s development priorities and the broader African and global context.

The Research Impact Division comprises four interconnected units, each contributing to our overarching goal of translating research into measurable impact: Impact Evaluation; HSRC Press; Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development; Internationalisation; and Governance, Ethics and Integrity. Together, these units ensure that the HSRC’s research is not only rigorous and relevant but also transformative to shape a more inclusive, informed, and just society.

The Division is looking to appoint a suitably qualified Stakeholder and Partnership Officer within the HSRC’s Pretoria based office. This is a full-time, permanent appointment.

Stakeholder and Partnership Officer

(Ref. No. Stakeholder & Partner 07/2026)

Pretoria

 

Minimum Requirements

  • A relevant NQF 7 degree in social sciences is preferably in Public Administration, International Relations, Development Studies or Business Administration.
  • 3–5 Years’ experience working in research, university, and or training and development environment or related private or NGO sector.
  • Familiarity with social sciences research landscape is essential
  • Excellent communication and relationship-building skills.
  • A proven track record in building and fostering successful relationships and partnerships across different sectors.
  • The ability to multitask and to work well under deadline pressure with high levels of energy.
  • A respect for diversity and the inclusion of varying views.
  • The ability to interface with people at all levels within an organisation or institution.
  • A strong user orientation, based on a commitment to social research that makes a difference.
  • High levels of computer literacy and experience is required (Excel, Microsoft Word).

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Responsible for supporting the development, coordination, and management of institutional partnerships.
  • Facilitating the initiation, development, implementation, and monitoring of Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) Memorandum of Agreements (MoAs) and related institutional-level collaboration agreements.
  • Supports strategic partnership engagements, institutional visibility, and reporting on partnership impact.
  • Support partnership initiation meetings and stakeholder engagement.
  • Profile institutional research capabilities and researchers to support collaboration opportunities
  • Contribute to the review and development strategy for the unit

Please register and submit your application on-line at https://hsrc.erecruit.co/ 

  • Candidates can make use of their mobile devices or any browser to register on the Neptune recruitment site, as well as to make applications for available vacancies; Candidates will be prompted to upload their CV’s;
  • Attachments must be less than 1MB, there is an on-screen option to resize.
  • The Neptune system will only allow you to upload 1 attachment. Please ensure that all documents are merged into 1 file before uploading.
  •  
  • A cover letter of motivation indicating your suitability and goals for the position.
  • A detailed CV which should clearly indicate your highest qualification; an indication of your quantitative and qualitative research experience; your fieldwork experience (not related to your degree) and include details of your citizenship.
  • The details of three recent referees with telephone/cell number, e-mail, and institutional affiliation.
  • Details of citizenship
  • A certified ID copy

The HSRC will only consider applications that comply with the above requirements.

  • Please note that applicants may be subject to a competency assessment pertaining to this position.

For further information about the HSRC or the post please consult our website (www.hsrc.ac.za).  Enquiries, to application process, can be directed to Ms Aurelia Smith at asmith@hsrc.ac.za and those relating to technical knowledge for the positions (NOT applications or CVs) may be directed to Dr Mzikazi Nduna: MNduna@hsrc.ac.za

Closing date: 24 July 2026. We encourage applicants to submit prior to this date. Applicants who have not been contacted within eight weeks should assume that their application has been unsuccessful. Only applicants who are interviewed will be advised of the outcome of their applications.

The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.

APPLICATIONS FROM RECRUITMENT AGENCIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED

Policy

In delivering 'social science that makes a difference' in South Africa and the region, the Research Programmes of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Durban, Pietermaritzburg and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act No.17 of 2008.

The HSRC aims to attract and retain high-calibre skills and human resources necessary to effectively execute both its mandate to conduct research and to support the strategic intent of the organisation.

The HSRC is committed to accelerating the improvement in the proportion of South African Citizens who are black, female, or disabled towards achieving Equity goals.

The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Application from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.

 

PLEASE APPLY HERE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

DIRECTOR: STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND EXTERNAL CAPACITY DEVELOPMENT

 

Details

Closing Date

2026/07/24

Reference Number

HSR260707-3

Job Type

Permanent

Job Title

Director: Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development

Business Area

External Capacity Development and Internships

Department

Research Impact Division

Number of Positions

1

Workplace Type

Hybrid

Location - Town / City

Pretoria

Location - Province

Gauteng

Location - Country

South Africa

Minimum Education Level

NQF 9 - Masters Degree or equivalent

Application Closing Date

24-Jul-2026

Job Category

Management

 

Job Advert Summary

In delivering ‘social science that makes a difference’ in South Africa and the region, the Research Units of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Pietermaritzburg, and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act of 2008.

The Research Impact division (RID) plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the Human Sciences Research Council’s (HSRC) work extends beyond academic outputs to create real and lasting change in society. Our mission is to support, strengthen, and institutionalise the impact of HSRC research by aligning it with South Africa’s development priorities and the broader African and global context.

The Research Impact Division comprises four interconnected units, each contributing to our overarching goal of translating research into measurable impact: Impact Evaluation; HSRC Press; Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development; Internationalisation; and Governance, Ethics and Integrity. Together, these units ensure that the HSRC’s research is not only rigorous and relevant but also transformative to shape a more inclusive, informed, and just society.

The Division is looking to appoint a suitably qualified Director: Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development (SPECD). The successful incumbent has to be a decisive leader, who engages at a strategic level. The role involves,

  • Knowledge of the National System of Innovation, policies on youth and skills development.
  • Appreciation of the challenges in the South African youth's access to the labour market
  • Knowledge and understanding of the public and private funding landscape
  • Ability to network and negotiate with partners and key stakeholders.
  • Proactive with a problem-solving mindset, advanced organisational skills, the ability to multitask and with great attention to detail.
  • Can foster Intergovernmental relations
  • Proven experience with stakeholder management.

This is a full-time, permanent appointment, based in the HSRC’s Pretoria office.

 

Minimum Requirements

  • A relevant Masters degree in Humanities/Social Sciences, Business Administration /Development, Developmental Studies, International Relations or related fields.
  • A PhD degree is an added advantage.
  • 8 Years experience in research, university, and or training and development environment.
  • Experience leading teams and a sound understanding of the social science research process.
  • Experience with annual business development (planning) and budgeting processes
  • Proven track record in multiple project management
  • Experience working with the government
  • Experience working in the funding environment (SETAs/Development funders/Philanthropic agencies, etc.

 

 

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Provides strategic leadership and oversight in the implementation of partnership priorities of the HSRC and facilitates business partnerships as well as the implementation of external capacity development programmes.
  • Lead the planning and compilation of the Unit’s annual budget aligned to the operational plans to support the implementation of the Annual Performance Plan (APP)
  • Engages relevant groups of stakeholders at the highest level in making key decisions while clearly articulating the HSRC’s stance on matters and to ensure preservation of the organisations' interests.
  • Lead and support the teams in implementing a strategy for the unit and ensure alignment with the strategic objectives of the HSRC overall.
  • Support the organisation-wide implementation of strategic business plans and oversee strategic partnerships and stakeholder engagements.
  • Build visible national, continental and international research partnerships that result in impactful and collaborative MoU/As, that are implemented at an institutional level.
  • Identify opportunities for research and external funding that could advance the HSRC’s work in addressing youth employment, skills shortages and learning opportunities post-schooling.
  • Lead the drafting of quarterly reports to all funders.
  • Build, lead and mentor an effective team that works collaboratively toward achieving the organisation's goals and promoting the HSRC brand identity and values.

Please register and submit your application on-line at https://hsrc.erecruit.co/ 

 

Application Instructions:

  • Candidates can make use of their mobile devices or any browser to register on the Neptune recruitment site, as well as to make applications for available vacancies; Candidates will be prompted to upload their CV’s;
  • Attachments must be less than 1MB, there is an on-screen option to resize.
  • The Neptune system will only allow you to upload 1 attachment. Please ensure that all documents are merged into 1 file before uploading.

 

Applications should include:

  • A cover letter of motivation indicating your suitability and goals for the position.
  • A detailed CV which should clearly indicate your highest qualification; an indication of your quantitative and qualitative research experience; your fieldwork experience (not related to your degree) and include details of your citizenship.
  • The details of three recent referees with telephone/cell number, e-mail, and institutional affiliation.
  • Details of citizenship
  • A certified ID copy

The HSRC will only consider applications that comply with the above requirements.

Please note that applicants may be subject to a competency assessment pertaining to this position.

For further information about the HSRC or the post please consult our website (www.hsrc.ac.za).  Enquiries, to application process, can be directed to Ms Aurelia Smith at asmith@hsrc.ac.za and those relating to technical knowledge for the positions (NOT applications or CVs) may be directed to Dr Mzikazi Nduna: MNduna@hsrc.ac.za

 

Closing date: 24 July 2026. We encourage applicants to submit prior to this date. Applicants who have not been contacted within eight weeks should assume that their application has been unsuccessful. Only applicants who are interviewed will be advised of the outcome of their applications.

 

The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.

APPLICATIONS FROM RECRUITMENT AGENCIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED

 

Policy

In delivering 'social science that makes a difference' in South Africa and the region, the Research Programmes of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Durban, Pietermaritzburg and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act No.17 of 2008.

The HSRC aims to attract and retain high-calibre skills and human resources necessary to effectively execute both its mandate to conduct research and to support the strategic intent of the organisation.

The HSRC is committed to accelerating the improvement in the proportion of South African Citizens who are black, female, or disabled towards achieving Equity goals.

The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Application from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.

 

PLEASE APPLY HERE

 

 

 

 

 

MANAGER: STRATEGIC PARTNERSHIPS AND INTERNATIONALISATION

 

Details

Closing Date

2026/07/24

Reference Number

HSR260707-2

Job Type

Permanent

Job Title

Manager: Strategic Partnerships and Internationalisation

Business Area

Strategic Partnerships and Internationalisation

Department

Research Impact Division

Number of Positions

1

Workplace Type

Hybrid

Location - Town / City

Pretoria

Location - Province

Gauteng

Location - Country

South Africa

Minimum Education Level

NQF8 - Hons Degree or equivalent

Application Closing Date

24-Jul-2026

Job Category

Administrative

 

Job Advert Summary

In delivering ‘social science that makes a difference’ in South Africa and the region, the Research Units of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Pietermaritzburg, and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act of 2008.

The Research Impact division (RID) plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the Human Sciences Research Council’s (HSRC) work extends beyond academic outputs to create real and lasting change in society. Our mission is to support, strengthen, and institutionalise the impact of HSRC research by aligning it with South Africa’s development priorities and the broader African and global context.

The Research Impact Division comprises four interconnected units, each contributing to our overarching goal of translating research into measurable impact: Impact Evaluation; HSRC Press; Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development; Internationalisation; and Governance, Ethics and Integrity. Together, these units ensure that the HSRC’s research is not only rigorous and relevant but also transformative to shape a more inclusive, informed, and just society.

The Division is looking to appoint a suitably qualified Manager: Strategic Partnerships and External Capacity Development (SPECD) within HSRC’s Pretoria office. This is a full-time, permanent appointment.

Manager: Strategic Partnerships and Internationalisation

(Ref. No. Man: Strat Partners 07/2026)

Pretoria

 

Minimum Requirements

  • Relevant Honors (NQF 8) qualification in Humanities/Social Sciences, Business Administration/Development, Developmental Studies, International Relations or related fields.
  • A Masters degree (NQF 9) is an added advantage
  • 6-8 Years relevant experience working in research, university, and or training and development environment or related private or NGO sector.
  • Experience leading teams and a sound understanding of the social science research process.
  • Relevant experience or exposure in youth, learnerships, internships, post-schooling, or the future of work.
  • High levels of computer literacy.

 

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Responsible for the operational work of the Strategic Partnership and Internationalisation Unit.
  • Provides leadership in driving key external partnerships for the HSRC and to drive internal stakeholder relations.
  • Liaises with external policy makers to further drive impactful research that leads to sustainable policy improvement within state bodies, determined by the strategic objectives and the mandate of the HSRC.
  • Supports all projects under the Unit including but not limited to the Science Diplomacy, Internship Project, Business Development and HSRC Tier 1 events.
  • Building alliances with like-minded partners to support the hosting and mentoring of interns and establish collaborations that ensure the financial sustainability of these initiatives.
  • Oversee partnership initiatives and activities
  • Lead engagement planning, including identifying speakers, experts, and strategic partners.
  • Co-lead the review and development strategy for the unit with the Director
  • Draft and manage MoUs/MoAs and collaboration agreements, maintaining effective engagement with strategic partners.
  • Proactively demonstrate a visible presence and engagement with relevant government entities, stakeholders and activities related to the organisation’s objectives in driving impactful research.
  • Create reporting guidelines and criteria for partnerships.
  • Develop partnership dashboards and institutional reporting tools.
  • Manage the planning and compilation of the Unit’s annual budget aligned to the operational plans to support the implementation of the APP.
  • Ensure that each team member is capacitated, managed, supported, mentored (if they are trainees) and motivated to ensure a high-performance team that meets strategic targets.

Please register and submit your application on-line at https://hsrc.erecruit.co/ 

 

Application Instructions:

  • Candidates can make use of their mobile devices or any browser to register on the Neptune recruitment site, as well as to make applications for available vacancies; Candidates will be prompted to upload their CV’s;
  • Attachments must be less than 1MB, there is an on-screen option to resize.
  • The Neptune system will only allow you to upload 1 attachment. Please ensure that all documents are merged into 1 file before uploading.

 

Applications should include:

  • A cover letter of motivation indicating your suitability and goals for the position.
  •  
  • A detailed CV which should clearly indicate your highest qualification; an indication of your quantitative and qualitative research experience; your fieldwork experience (not related to your degree) and include details of your citizenship.
  • The details of three recent referees with telephone/cell number, e-mail, and institutional affiliation.
  • Details of citizenship
  • A certified ID copy

The HSRC will only consider applications that comply with the above requirements.

Please note that applicants may be subject to a competency assessment pertaining to this position.

For further information about the HSRC or the post please consult our website (www.hsrc.ac.za).  Enquiries, to application process, can be directed to Ms Aurelia Smith at asmith@hsrc.ac.za and those relating to technical knowledge for the positions (NOT applications or CVs) may be directed to Dr Mzikazi Nduna: MNduna@hsrc.ac.za

Closing date: 24 July 2026. We encourage applicants to submit prior to this date. Applicants who have not been contacted within eight weeks should assume that their application has been unsuccessful. Only applicants who are interviewed will be advised of the outcome of their applications.

The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.

APPLICATIONS FROM RECRUITMENT AGENCIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED

 

Policy

In delivering 'social science that makes a difference' in South Africa and the region, the Research Programmes of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Durban, Pietermaritzburg and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act No.17 of 2008.

The HSRC aims to attract and retain high-calibre skills and human resources necessary to effectively execute both its mandate to conduct research and to support the strategic intent of the organisation.

The HSRC is committed to accelerating the improvement in the proportion of South African Citizens who are black, female, or disabled towards achieving Equity goals.

The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Application from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.

 

PLEASE APPLY HERE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

PROOFREADERS

Details

Closing Date

2026/07/15

Reference Number

HSR260702-2

Job Type

Freelancer

Job Title

Proofreaders

Business Area

Communication & Engagements

Department

C&E

Number of Positions

4

Workplace Type

Hybrid

Location - Town / City

Pretoria, Cape Town, KZN

Location - Province

Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng

Location - Country

South Africa

Minimum Education Level

NQF 4 - Grade 12 or equivalent

Application Closing Date

15-Jul-2026

Job Category

Education

 

Job Advert Summary

The HSRC produces leading-edge policy research, through engaged scholarship, to utilise in understanding and explaining social conditions and informing social change for inclusive growth in communities. Dissemination of research findings and promotion of research activities are done through various public events, including conferences, workshops, launches, public dialogues and seminars.


The Communication and Engagement (C&E) unit is responsible for translating and communicating HSRC research to diverse local and international audiences. This includes managing publications, digital and media platforms, public engagement activities, and the HSRC’s overall content and brand presence to ensure accessible, consistent and impactful communication.


The HSRC Review is the organisation’s quarterly publication, available online, and aimed at a broad, informed audience including policymakers, academics, funders, and the public. Articles are written in clear, accessible English for non-specialist readers.

 

Minimum Requirements

The candidates are expected to have sufficient experience in providing Proofreading Services.

In addition:

  • Minimum: Matric with English Home Language
  • Ability to proofread at first-language English proficiency (assessment required)
  • At least 2 years’ proofreading experience (PDF-based content)
  • Experience in publishing, journalism, or magazine subediting environments preferred
  • Experience working with academic or technical content is advantageous

Application Procedure

In your application, please include:

  • Letter of motivation
  • Detailed CV with proof of qualifications
  • At least two recent reference letters
  • Two contactable references
  • Three examples of proofreading work

 

Duties & Responsibilities

The scope of work and expectations of the Proofreaders will include the following:

  • Proofreading the final PDF version of the HSRC Review (±10,000–25,000 words)
  • Correcting spelling, grammar, punctuation, and typographical errors
  • Identifying inconsistencies in language, formatting, and layout
  • Checking for missing or truncated text resulting from layout processes
  • Proofreading captions, headlines, pull quotes, and graphic text
  • Ensuring accuracy and consistency across all visible elements
  • Maintaining a high level of attention to detail throughout the publication

 

Policy

In delivering 'social science that makes a difference' in South Africa and the region, the Research Programmes of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Durban, Pietermaritzburg and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act No.17 of 2008.

The HSRC aims to attract and retain high-calibre skills and human resources necessary to effectively execute both its mandate to conduct research and to support the strategic intent of the organisation.

The HSRC is committed to accelerating the improvement in the proportion of South African Citizens who are black, female, or disabled towards achieving Equity goals.

The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Application from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.

 

PLEASE APPLY HERE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

HSRC LANGUAGE EDITORS

 

Details

Closing Date

2026/07/15

Reference Number

HSR260702-1

Job Type

Freelancer

Job Title

HSRC Language Editors

Business Area

Communication & Engagements

Department

C&E

Number of Positions

4

Workplace Type

Hybrid

Location - Town / City

Pretoria, Cape Town, KZN

Location - Province

KwaZulu-Natal, Gauteng, Western Cape

Location - Country

South Africa

Minimum Education Level

NQF 4 - Grade 12 or equivalent

Application Closing Date

15-Jul-2026

Job Category

Education

 

Job Advert Summary

The HSRC produces leading-edge policy research, through engaged scholarship, to utilise in understanding and explaining social conditions and informing social change for inclusive growth in communities. Dissemination of research findings and promotion of research activities are done through various public events, including conferences, workshops, launches, public dialogues and seminars.


The Communication and Engagement (C&E) unit is responsible for translating and communicating HSRC research to diverse local and international audiences. This includes managing publications, digital and media platforms, public engagement activities, and the HSRC’s overall content and brand presence to ensure accessible, consistent and impactful communication.


The HSRC Review is the organisation’s quarterly publication, available online, and aimed at a broad, informed audience including policymakers, academics, funders, and the public. Articles are written in clear, accessible English for non-specialist readers.

 

Minimum Requirements

The candidates are expected to have demonstrated professional editing experience.


In addition:

  • Minimum: Matric with English Home Language
  • At least 3 years’ professional editing experience
  • Strong ability to edit complex or academic content for public audiences
  • Experience in journalism, publishing, or magazine subediting preferred
  • High level of accuracy, judgement, and editorial integrity
  • Strong self-management and attention to detail

Application Procedure

In your application, please include:

  • Letter of motivation
  • Detailed CV with proof of qualifications
  • At least two recent reference letters
  • Two contactable references
  • Three examples of editing work
  • Reference number as listed in this advert

 

Duties & Responsibilities

The scope of work and expectations of the Language Editors will include:

  • Language editing of the Word version of the HSRC Review (±10,000–25,000 words)
  • Editing for grammar, clarity, structure, tone, and consistency
  • Substantive editing to improve readability and accessibility for a general audience
  • Refining content to optimal length while preserving meaning and accuracy
  • Writing or refining headlines and selecting pull quotes where required
  • Reviewing graphics and accompanying text for clarity and alignment with content
  • Fact-checking key claims, data points, and references to ensure accuracy and prevent the unintentional inclusion of unverified information
  • Identifying and flagging potentially controversial, sensitive, or reputationally risky statements that are not adequately supported by evidence or sources
  • Ensuring coherence and logical flow across the publication
  • Liaising with the editorial team on queries and revisions

 

Policy

In delivering 'social science that makes a difference' in South Africa and the region, the Research Programmes of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Durban, Pietermaritzburg and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act No.17 of 2008.

The HSRC aims to attract and retain high-calibre skills and human resources necessary to effectively execute both its mandate to conduct research and to support the strategic intent of the organisation.

The HSRC is committed to accelerating the improvement in the proportion of South African Citizens who are black, female, or disabled towards achieving Equity goals.

The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Application from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.

 

PLEASE APPLY HERE

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

MASTER’S RESEARCH TRAINEES (REF. NO. HSRC M-TRN 06/2026)

 

Details

Closing Date

2026/07/10

Reference Number

HSR260611-2

Job Type

Fixed Term contract- long term

Job Title

Master’s Research Trainees (Ref. No. HSRC M-TRN 06/2026)

Business Area

Research Impact Division

Department

EEE, PHSB, RID and DCES

Number of Positions

1

Workplace Type

Hybrid

Location - Town / City

Pretoria, CapeTown, KZN

Location - Province

Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal

Location - Country

South Africa

Minimum Education Level

NQF8 - Hons Degree or equivalent

Application Closing Date

10-Jul-2026

Job Category

Scientific

 

 

Job Advert Summary

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) seeks to appoint Master's Research Trainees with a strong interest in the human and social sciences. The successful candidates will contribute to innovative, policy-relevant and interdisciplinary research that addresses South Africa's developmental challenges and advances social transformation. The programme offers exposure to research across the HSRC's key focus areas, including democracy, governance and citizenship; education, skills and inclusive economic development; public health, public policy, science in society, social wellbeing and belonging; African development, global engagement and sustainable human security.

 

Through its research divisions, the HSRC generates evidence and knowledge that inform policy, strengthen institutions, support inclusive development and contribute to building a capable state, a cohesive society and resilient communities. The HSRC's vision is to be a leading centre of excellence in human and social sciences research, advancing a better South Africa, a better Africa and a better world. Its mission is to conduct impactful research that informs policy and practice, builds research capacity, and promotes social justice, human dignity and sustainable development.

 

 

Minimum Requirements

Key requirements:

  • Applicants must be South African citizens, in possession of a relevant Honours degree in a human or social science discipline; and be registered for Masters degree at the time of appointment or register during the first six (6) months of appointment at a recognised South African university;
  • Demonstrated interest in, and understanding of, contemporary social, economic, developmental, governance, health, education and public policy issues affecting South Africa, Africa and the broader global context;
  • A sound grounding in research methods will be a strong recommendation;
  • Requisite computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office)
  • Working experience with some of the following data software packages: STATA, SPSS, R, Nvivo, AtlasTI or other relevant statistical packages;
  • Ability to work well under pressure and to meet

 

 

Duties & Responsibilities

  • Key responsibilities:
  •  In addition to being registered for a Master’s degree, at a recognised South African university and
  • currently working on their degrees, or eligible for registration at a recognised South African university, research trainees are required to participate in all aspects of the research process as they work with other staff on different research projects.
  • Among other duties, they will participate in the following activities under supervision:
  • Participation in the conceptualisation and execution of research projects;
  • Participation in the formulation of research questions and writing proposals;       Assisting with the submission of research proposals for ethical review;
  • Management or supervision of research projects       Collection and analysis of data;
  • Writing-up of research results, research reports and manuscripts for publication;
  • Presenting results of projects in different forums (webinars, conferences, seminars, and other forums)

 

 

Policy

In delivering 'social science that makes a difference' in South Africa and the region, the Research Programmes of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Durban, Pietermaritzburg and Pretoria. Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act No.17 of 2008.

The HSRC aims to attract and retain high-calibre skills and human resources necessary to effectively execute both its mandate to conduct research and to support the strategic intent of the organisation.

The HSRC is committed to accelerating the improvement in the proportion of South African Citizens who are black, female, or disabled towards achieving Equity goals.

The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Application from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.

 

PLEASE APPLY HERE

 

 

 

 

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