Researcher/Project Manager (25 Hours Per Week) (Contract Appointment: 3 years) (Job ID: 5821) at University of the Free State

Duties and responsibilities: 

Research

• Undertake research on defined issues related to the History of the University of the Free State book project.

Project management/administration

• Conduct project management and some project administration support related to the History of the University of the Free State book project and the wider Research Project on the Histories of Universities in South Africa (RPHUSA) national programme.
• Liaise with researchers, archivists, librarians and other academic and administrators.
• Support other activities connected with the UFS book project and the RPHUSA programme.
• Support activities related to research, publishing, and events.

Attendance of meetings

• Attend events (conferences/seminars, colloquia) and meetings.

Writing and publishing

• Write papers and articles and chapters in peer-reviewed publications.

Reporting

• Report on activities at the end of each contract period.
• Hold monthly face-to-face or digital/telephonic meetings with the project leader.
• Hold face-to face or digital/telephonic meetings as required.

Inherent requirements:

• Master’s degree on NQF Level 9 in History. 
• Proven experience in the delivery of poster or oral presentation at conferences or equivalent activities.
• Evidence of manuscripts produced that have the potential to be converted or submitted for publication in accredited journal.
• A good academic record.

Recommendations:

• A working knowledge of Afrikaans.
• Digital archiving and documentary film experience.
• Ability to work with website developers, archivists, librarians, museum staff and documentary film makers.
• Ability to travel and attend meetings locally and nationally when needed.

Required competencies:  

Results oriented.

• The ability to set high standards, establish tough goals, and to work to achieve success.
• The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations. 

Strategic thinking.

• The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
• The ability to focus on details, work towards perfection, and approach work in a neat and organised manner.

Business Acumen:

• The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
• Proficient in using MS Office.

Leading.

• The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
• The ability to lead, take charge of situations, and offer opinions and directions to others. 

Building coalitions

• The ability to negotiate, sell, influence and to persuade others.
• The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.