Head: Research Capacity Development at University of Pretoria/Universiteit van Pretoria

The incumbent will be responsible for:

• Providing strategic leadership in research capacity development aligned with institutional goals, national research priorities, and global standards;
• Designing and implementing early and mid-career researcher development programmes, including orientation, mentoring, training, and advancement pathways;
• Managing the University Capacity Development Programme (UCDP) and NRF Rated Researcher Portfolio, ensuring quality, compliance, and performance;
• Strengthening the University's research performance by overseeing targeted capacity-building initiatives and externally funded development programmes;
• Leading the development of grant support services, ensuring alignment with funding opportunities and best practices in proposal development;
• Representing the University at national and international platforms, forging partnerships with key stakeholders such as DHET, NRF, government bodies, and industry;
• Overseeing divisional operations, human resources, budgets, risk, compliance, and institutional reporting related to researcher development;
• Fostering innovation in researcher support systems and promote a culture of excellence, inclusivity, and continuous improvement within the RCD team.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS

• A doctoral degree (PhD) in a relevant field;
• At least 8 years’ experience in research support, academic staff development, or capacity building roles within a university; 
• Experience in strategic planning, financial oversight, and stakeholder engagement;
• Familiarity with South African research funding agencies and national policy frameworks.

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES

• A qualification in project management;
• Proven experience in securing research funding;
• Membership of relevant professional associations;
• Familiarity with university systems related to research management, performance monitoring, and research analytics;
• Experience managing complex, externally funded development programmes, including monitoring, evaluation, and reporting;
• Demonstrated success in developing and managing multi-unit research capacity development programmes.