Researcher/Senior Researcher in Accumulation and Inequalities in the RASC (Contract Post) at Rhodes University

Main Objectives

• Research is the main focus, and teaching is not a core function.  Where the researchers are on contract, raising funds for their employment, contract research shall be regarded as equivalent to more traditional forms of research.
• In assessing the candidate’s scholarship for promotion, consideration will be given to the individual's track record.  While disciplinary differences are considered, the candidate must demonstrate standing within the discipline through their research and student research. 
• This could mean that the individual has demonstrated leadership, made a major contribution to research projects, served as the lead author on publications, or consistently contributed to multiple publications throughout their academic career.

The Requirements

Researcher

• A PhD in African Studies, Political Economy, Economics, Political Sciences, Sociology, Science and Technology Studies, Gender Studies, Anthropology, Geography, Urban Planning, History, Cultural Studies, or a related field.
• Some experience in areas related to accumulation and inequality research, as well as political economy thinking; a focus on the gendered nature of accumulation dynamics is desirable.
• Emerging publication profile in leading journals with a reference to the themes "accumulation" and "inequality". A strong monograph by a respected publisher can be credited as an alternative. The publications address inter- and/or transdisciplinary research projects and build on proven collaborations relevant to the theme of accumulation and inequalities.
• Postgraduate research supervision is not necessarily required. Those with such experience have an added advantage.
• Some experience in coordinating or organising interdisciplinary and/or collaborative projects and/or programmes (this may include conferences and related academic activities)
• Evidence of attendance and presentation at local conferences. Presentation at international conferences will be an added advantage.
• A scholar showing significant research potential.
• Administrative experience, including the ability to coordinate a team of scholars in a collaborative international and interdisciplinary research context.

Senior Researcher

• A PhD in African Studies, Political Economy, Economics, Political Sciences, Sociology, Science and Technology Studies, Gender Studies, Anthropology, Geography, Urban Planning, History, Cultural Studies, or a related field.
• Significant expertise and experience in areas related to accumulation and inequality research, as well as political economy thinking; a focus on the gendered nature of accumulation dynamics is desirable.
• A very good publication record in leading journals with a reference to the themes "accumulation" and "inequality". A strong monograph by a respected publisher can be credited as an alternative. The publications should address inter- and transdisciplinary research projects and build on proven collaborations relevant to the theme of accumulation and inequalities.
• Research supervision of at least a Master’s degree is required. Supervision at the PhD level will be an added advantage.
• Significant experience in leading and/or coordinating interdisciplinary and/or collaborative research projects and/or programmes.
• Evidence of attendance and presentation in local and preferably international conferences.
• An established researcher with an emerging national profile in the discipline.
• Track record of administration, management, and/or leadership roles (leadership roles may be informal) in a collaborative international and interdisciplinary research context.

Closing Date 10 August 2026