Researcher (1 year fixed term Contract) - Journalism, Media & African Development at University of the Witwatersrand

Brief Description: 

• The successful incumbent will report to the Director of the WCJ and will conduct research relating to journalism, media and Africa’s development and geopolitics as outlined in the funding agreement; and conceptualise, implement, manage, and report on the activities of the project. 

Key tasks:

• Lead in the delivery of the project’s research agenda
• Lead in leveraging research outputs for the capacity building of journalists and the media
• Grow and sustain a network of journalists and media editors focused on Africa’s development in a context of geopolitical shifts
• Publish, support and report on research
• Supervise and teach at postgraduate level
• Perform general research administrative duties

Requirements:

• A master’s degree or a doctorate in Humanities or Social Sciences discipline although candidates with a doctorate or close to completing a doctoral degree are preferred. 
• Proven knowledge of Africa’s governance frameworks in relation to economic development
• Project management experience
• Evidence of published research excellence
• Experience coordinating research projects and related public-facing events
• Experience in supervising postgraduate students, at least at the Master’s degree level

Closing Date : 4th February 2026