Job Details
- Position: Senior Researcher
- Job ID: 6440
- Department: Centre for Health Systems Research and Development (CHSR&D)
- Faculty: Humanities
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus
- Contract Type: Permanent
- Level: Junior Management
- Closing Date: 13 May 2026
- Start Date: As soon as possible
Job Description
This role focuses on health systems research and academic leadership. You will:
- Conduct impactful research in public health and social sciences
- Supervise postgraduate students
- Mentor emerging researchers
- Contribute to health interventions and policy-related research
The position is ideal for someone with strong qualitative research expertise and academic experience, especially in health systems and community-based research.
Key Responsibilities
Academic Supervision & Mentorship
- Supervise and co-supervise postgraduate students
- Mentor junior researchers and staff
- Support research design, academic writing, and data analysis
Research & Development
- Lead and contribute to research aligned with CHSR&D themes
- Use qualitative and/or mixed research methods
- Conduct health systems and implementation research
Community & Health Systems Work
- Co-design and evaluate health interventions
- Work with:
- Communities
- Health service providers
- Policy makers
Academic Engagement
- Organise and contribute to:
- Workshops
- Webinars
- Conferences
Funding & Collaboration
- Contribute to grant proposal development
- Participate in research networks and collaborations
Minimum Requirements
PhD (NQF Level 10) in:
- Social Sciences
- Public Health
- Or related field
At least 3 years’ experience in:
- Health systems research
- Higher education or R&D environment
Proven:
- Supervision of completed Master’s students
- Qualitative research expertise
- Research publications (peer-reviewed journals)
- Conference presentations (national/international)
Active research collaboration experience
NRF rating or strong potential
National Research Foundation
Recommended (Advantageous)
- Experience in participatory health systems research
- Exposure to implementation science
- Experience developing research grant proposals
Key Competencies
Results-Oriented
- Persistent and dependable
- Follows through on commitments
Strategic Thinking
- Organised and detail-focused
- Strong planning ability
Technical Skills
- Proficient in:
- NVivo (qualitative analysis software)
- MS Office
Leadership
- Takes initiative and leads effectively
- Encourages teamwork
Relationship Building
- Confident in professional environments
- Builds strong networks and collaborations