Job Advert Summary
The Developmental, Capable and Ethical State (DCES) is a research division within the HSRC that employs a multi-disciplinary group of social scientists who conduct numerous empirical and policy-related studies.
The DCES division is looking to appoint a suitably qualified professional in the position of Chief Research Specialist. This position supports and assists the Divisional Executive and the Strategic Leads in implementing the five-year strategic plan of the HSRC. The Developmental, Capable and Ethical State (DCES) division conducts transdisciplinary, intersectional, policy and programme-relevant research. The two over-arching questions that guide the research interventions are:
- How to strengthen democracy through transparent governance, accountable leadership and reinvigorated public participation and civic engagement;
- How to ensure sustainable development through peace, human and social security.
A developmental, capable and ethical state is not possible without ensuring peace and sustainable security within South Africa and beyond its borders. In order to work towards a more socially cohesive citizenry and safer and resilient communities, it is necessary to focus on building a “better South Africa, a better Africa and a better world.”
Minimum Requirements
- A doctorate (PhD) in the social or economic sciences or related disciplines.
- An established research career, as evidenced by publications.
- At least six years’ experience post qualification coupled with 12 or more peer-reviewed publications, of which several to be international.
- Excellent writing skills necessary for publication in internationally accredited peer-reviewed academic journals, and for drafting briefing papers and reports.
- Record of raising funds for research. Applicants applying for the CRS/M position should have larger fundraising experience.
- An interest in one of the priority research areas of DCES will be an advantage.
- A sound grounding in research methods, especially quantitative approaches, will be a strong recommendation.
- The versatility to apply quantitative and qualitative methodologies to challenging subject matter across disciplinary boundaries will be advantageous.
- Intellectual and personal integrity, imagination and drive.
- A strong user orientation, based on a commitment to social research that makes a difference.
- The ability and enthusiasm to engage as a team player in large-scale multidisciplinary research projects, to manage research teams, and to mentor and train team members.
- Communicate research findings through modalities like policy briefs.
- Publish in refereed journals.
- Build national and international research links.
- Manage staff and build capacity within the division.
Duties and Responsibilities
- Conducting high level scholarly research which meets the challenge of peer review, and has both strategic and policy relevance.
- Responding to requests for tenders and formulating grant applications.
- Managing research teams and large-scale, long-term research projects.
- Proposal writing to secure external funds.
- Mentor fellow employees and emerging researchers.
- Deliver high-quality results and reports to meet set budgets and deadlines.
- Network with major users and funders of social science research to understand their research needs.
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