Associate Researcher: Intersectional Development Research Programme (Grant Funded 12-month contract) at University of the Witwatersrand

Department Description        
The Southern Centre for Inequality Studies (SCIS) is an interdisciplinary research centre located in the Faculty of Commerce, Law and Management at the University of the Witwatersrand. SCIS seeks to appoint an Associate Researcher to support the work of the Intersectional Development Research Programme.

The Intersectional Development Research Programme has multiple projects aimed at promoting intersectional development research and praxis. Our ongoing research seeks to understand, inform and operationalise intersectionality as central to understanding inequality globally and in developing countries in the global South.  In so doing, the programme aims to influence policymaking through evidence-based research centered on improving the lives and livelihoods of the most vulnerable members of society.

Brief Description        
The Associate Researcher will be responsible for:

• Conducting quantitative and qualitative research on the implications of national and international policies on economic and social inclusion in emerging market and developing economies;
• Mapping key stakeholders for the purposes of public engagement, including academics, policy-makers, activists, trade unions and/or workers’ organisations and representatives of the business community
• Supporting outreach and communications, including collating and promoting research outputs and engagements; writing blog pieces, summary reports and policy briefs for a wider audience; and contributing to various multimedia content;
• Organizing on-line and in-person events, including learning circles, policy dialogues and international workshops;
• Collaborating on collective publications, with researchers from the programme.

REQUIREMENTS:

• A Master’s degree in economics, sociology, development studies or a related field;
• At least 2 years demonstrable experience in supporting research in an academic context;
• Expertise in gender analysis, social policy and labour studies, with an intersectional lens;
• Strong research skills, familiarity with qualitative and quantitative research methods, expertise in econometrics and a proficiency in STATA, or any other statistical software, are a plus;
• Experience in project management, organizing of events and dissemination of research to a broader audience;
• A high level of motivation and the ability to work in a diverse environment with limited supervision.

This is an entry-level academic position with an attractive remuneration package and conditions of service. This is a fixed term 12-month grant-funded post, with the possibility of extension.