Research Manager at HSRC – Apply Now!

🧠 About the Opportunity

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC), South Africa’s leading social science and humanities research institution, is recruiting an experienced and visionary Research Manager. If you’re passionate about shaping public policy through rigorous and impactful research, this is your chance to lead multidisciplinary teams and drive projects that influence the nation’s future.

As a Research Manager at HSRC, you’ll be entrusted with conceptualising research strategies, managing teams and budgets, and delivering high-quality outputs that directly impact development and social transformation in South Africa and beyond.

🔍 Key Responsibilities

As part of a dynamic research team, your core duties will include:

• Leading the design, planning, and execution of research projects across key thematic areas.

• Developing proposals, securing funding, and managing project budgets.

• Building, managing, and mentoring multidisciplinary research teams.

• Publishing high-quality peer-reviewed research and disseminating findings to stakeholders.

• Collaborating with government, academic, and civil society partners.

• Ensuring compliance with ethical research practices and project deliverables.

• Supporting strategic planning and institutional research goals.

🧾 Requirements & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

• A Master’s degree in the social sciences, humanities, or a related field (PhD preferred).

• A strong portfolio of peer-reviewed publications and policy-related research.

• At least 5 years’ experience in managing research teams or large projects.

• Demonstrated success in securing research funding and stakeholder engagement.

• Exceptional communication and report-writing skills.

Preferred Experience:

• Knowledge of public sector and policy environments in South Africa.

• Proven leadership in cross-disciplinary or multi-country research initiatives.

• Data analysis expertise and understanding of both quantitative and qualitative methodologies.

🌟 Why Work at HSRC?

• Be part of South Africa’s premier public research institution.

• Influence critical national and regional policy decisions.

• Collaborate with a wide network of professionals, policymakers, and global institutions.

• Access world-class research infrastructure and knowledge platforms.

• Enjoy a work culture that values academic integrity, innovation, and impact.

📌 Important Notes

HSRC is an equal opportunity employer committed to transformation. Candidates from previously disadvantaged backgrounds are strongly encouraged to apply.

Find similar jobs at:
👉 https://careerjunctionza.co.za/jobs/

📝 CV TIPS Tailored for This Research Role:

✅ Showcase Research Publications: Include links or citations to peer-reviewed papers, policy briefs, or reports.
✅ Detail Project Leadership: Highlight projects you’ve led—mention your role, scope, and measurable outcomes.
✅ Emphasise Funding Success: Demonstrate your ability to secure and manage research grants or partnerships.
✅ Highlight Policy Impact: Detail how your work has influenced policy, law, or public discourse.
✅ Use Academic Language Carefully: Keep your CV professional but readable for HR professionals—not just academics.
✅ Add Soft Skills: Strong leadership, public speaking, and stakeholder engagement are crucial in this role.

🔗 Company Website: https://www.hsrc.ac.za