Job Vacancies at Human Sciences Research Council (HRSC)

Job Advert Summary    

• The HSRC is seeking a dynamic and innovative individual with demonstrated success and delivery to guide and manage the overall People and Culture function by developing and implementing initiatives that support the achievement of the HSRC's strategic goals.
• The People and Culture Management function is mandated to embed an employee-oriented, high-performance culture that emphasises quality, productivity, goal-attainment and the recruitment and ongoing development of a high-performing workforce. The incumbent will report to the Chief Operating Officer and assist in managing the delivery of People and Culture initiatives to the HSRC offices nationally. The position is based in Pretoria and the incumbent will be required to travel as required.

Director: People and Culture

• Ref. Dir P&C 11/25
• Permanent

Minimum Requirements    

• A relevant Master's degree/qualification (NQF 9 level) supported by a strong business acumen with at least 10 years relevant extensive experience or a relevant NQF level 7 qualification with a strong business acumen and at least 15 years relevant demonstrated experience.
• At least 5 years’ experience operating at a senior management level.
• Experience in an environment that is similar to the regulatory environment in which the HSRC operates.

Additional Requirements:

Professional integrity.

• A strong, bold, and decisive leader.
• Presentation skills at senior, executive, and board levels.
• Drive, initiative, flexibility, and a proven track record to handle pressure, and a commitment to service excellence to users.
• Ability to meet deadlines and work extended hours.
• Advanced computer literacy/proficiency across the MS Office suite.
• Sound project management and financial skills
• Excellent inter-personal, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Good communication and team-building skills.
• Sound report writing skills.
• Vast experience in a unionised environment.

Duties & Responsibilities    

• Development and implementation of the People and Culture strategy incorporating interrelationships between the core business and the P & C strategy.
• Employee Wellness management.
• Facilitate the implementation of a cohesive and inclusive organisational culture.
• Monitoring and evaluating People and Culture systems e.g. SAGE 300.
• Monitoring and evaluating the Employment Equity Plan and Workplace Skills Plan.
• Compensation and benefits management including payroll services.
• Development and reviewing P&C policies and procedures, and ensuring that they are implemented, maintained and in line with the latest legislative requirements.
• Evaluating, maintaining and facilitating a well-functioning performance management system.
• Guiding and mentoring line managers and staff members on sound People and Culture practices and principles.
• Identify employment equity requirements and advise on the status of compliance with targets in relation to the HSRC’s strategic goals and targets.
• Oversee remuneration, recognition, and benefits practices.

People and Culture Risk Management.

• Implementing a coherent performance Management.
• Recruitment, selection, induction, and internal staffing.
• Responsible for prudent financial management within the P & C environment, ensuring value for money, effective contract management, and adherence to governance standards.
• Sound employee relations management, dispute resolution, and conflict management.
• Talent Management and Succession Planning.

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Job Advert Summary    

• The HSRC is seeking a dynamic and innovative individual with demonstrated success and delivery to guide and manage the overall Information Communication Technology (ICT) function by developing and implementing initiatives that support the achievement of the HSRC's strategic goals.
• The ICT unit oversees the following areas: Technical assistance and a Help-desk and End-User support, Systems and software development, ICT contract management, Network Infrastructure Operations, Cyber security, and Business Application support.
• The incumbent will report to the Chief Operating Officer and manage the delivery of ICT initiatives across all HSRC offices nationwide. The position is based in Pretoria and the incumbent will be required to travel as required.

Director: Information Communication Technology (ICT)

• Ref. Dir ICT 11/25
• Permanent

Minimum Requirements    

• A relevant Master's degree/qualification (NQF 9 level) supported by a strong business acumen with at least 10 years relevant extensive experience or a relevant NQF level 7 qualification with a strong business acumen and at least 15 years relevant demonstrated experience.
• At least 5 years’ experience operating at a senior management level.
• Experience in an environment that is similar to the regulatory environment in which the HSRC operates.

Additional requirements:  

• Professional integrity.
• A strong, bold and decisive leader.
• Presentation skills at senior, executive and board levels.
• Drive, initiative, flexibility, and a proven track record to handle pressure, and a commitment to service excellence to users.
• Ability to meet deadlines and work extended hours.
• Advanced computer literacy/proficiency across the MS Office suite.
• Sound project management and financial skills
• Excellent inter-personal, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Good communication and team-building skills.
• Sound report writing skills.

Duties & Responsibilities    

• Provide strategic leadership and direction to the organisation’s information and communication technology (ICT) portfolio.
• Accountable for the development, implementation, and monitoring of the ICT strategy, ensuring full alignment with the organisation’s strategic objectives and long-term sustainability.
• Co-Lead the HSRC’s digital transformation agenda, driving the adoption of modern technologies to enhance research, data management, operational efficiency, and stakeholder engagement. This includes modernising ICT infrastructure, implementing innovative digital solutions, and aligning technology strategies with the organisation’s vision and strategic priorities.
• Provide oversight of ICT operations, infrastructure, systems development, and cybersecurity, ensuring that the organisation’s digital environment is secure, reliable, and efficient.
• Responsible for ICT policy formulation, disaster recovery planning, risk management, and ensuring compliance with all relevant legislation, including the Protection of Personal Information (POPI) Act.
• Management of stakeholder relationships.
• Represent the organisation in relevant industry forums, strengthen partnerships with business units and external stakeholders, and ensure that ICT initiatives directly support and enable organisational priorities.
• Ensure strong leadership of a geographically dispersed ICT team, with responsibility for performance management, talent development, diversity and change management, and fostering a positive workplace culture.
• Responsible for prudent financial management within the ICT environment, ensuring value for money, effective contract management, and adherence to governance standards.

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 Job Advert Summary    

• The HSRC is seeking a dynamic and innovative individual with demonstrated success and delivery to guide and manage the overall Communication and Engagements function by developing and implementing initiatives that support the achievement of the HSRC's strategic goals.
• The role involves coordinating content management, media liaison, and the effective dissemination of the HSRC’s work to enhance the organisation’s profile. The successful candidate will be responsible for implementing dissemination strategies, building strong media partnerships, and fostering collaborations that advance the HSRC’s mission of achieving impact through policy-engaged research.
• The incumbent will report to the Chief Operating Officer and assist in managing the delivery of Communication and Engagement initiatives to the HSRC offices nationally. The position is based in Pretoria and the incumbent will be required to travel as required.

Director: Communication and Engagements

• Ref. Dir C&E 11/25
• Permanent

Minimum Requirements    

• A relevant Master's degree/qualification (NQF 9 level) supported by a strong business acumen with at least 10 years relevant extensive experience or a relevant NQF level 7 qualification with a strong business acumen and at least 15 years relevant demonstrated experience.
• At least 5 years’ experience operating at a senior management level.
• Experience in an environment that is similar to the regulatory environment in which the HSRC operates.

Additional Requirements:

• Professional integrity.
• A strong, bold and decisive leader.
• Presentation skills at senior, executive and board levels.
• Drive, initiative, flexibility, and a proven track record to handle pressure, and a commitment to service excellence to users.
• Ability to meet deadlines and work extended hours.
• Excellent understanding of the research-communication continuum
• Advanced computer literacy/proficiency across the MS Office suite.
• Sound project management and financial skills
• Excellent inter-personal, problem-solving and decision-making skills.
• Good communication and team-building skills.
• Sound report writing skills.

Duties & Responsibilities    

• Provide strategic leadership for the HSRC’s internal and external communication, media relations, stakeholder engagement, and corporate branding.
• Drive the development and implementation of integrated communication strategies that advance the HSRC’s visibility, reputation, and impact.
• Oversee the production of corporate publications, digital platforms, and multimedia content to ensure alignment with the HSRC’s strategic priorities and brand identity.
• Lead stakeholder engagement initiatives, fostering strong relationships with government, research partners, communities, and the public.
• Ensure internal communications support organisational cohesion, knowledge sharing, and staff engagement.
• Manage the HSRC’s corporate identity and brand consolidation across all units and platforms.
• Provide oversight of crisis communication, reputational risk management, and proactive media engagement.
• Lead and mentor the Communication and Engagements team to deliver high-quality, innovative, and responsive services.
• Responsible for prudent financial management within the C&E environment, ensuring value for money, effective contract management, and adherence to governance standards.

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 Job Advert Summary    

• Within the Africa, BRICS and the Global South Division (ABGS), the Africa Institute of South Africa (AISA) leads and coordinates the HSRC’s engagements in Africa. It, therefore, acts as a catalyst for research and implementation support across the African continent. AISA also undertakes basic, applied policy-relevant and comparative research. As a strategic unit within the ABGS Division, the Institute also seeks to build capacity and provide policy advice and implementation support to advance the HSRC’s own Africa Research Partnership and Collaboration Strategy as well as South Africa’s African Agenda, DSTI’s Africa Strategy and Decadal Plan, SADC’s Regional Indicative Strategic Development Plan 2020-2030 (RISDP), the African Union’s Agenda 2063, and the key frameworks of the United Nations (SDG’s, UNSCR 1325). It collaborates with a range of national, continental, and international governments, as well as multilateral institutions, research institutes, universities, and civil society organisations in order to achieve its objectives. AISA wishes to appoint a Senior Research Specialist (SRS) within the sub-unit focusing on the theme: Good Governance, Human Rights and the Rule of Law.  

Senior Research Specialist

• 1 Position – Permanent Contract Pretoria Based
• Ref: AISA - SRS 11/25
• Applicants are invited to apply for the Senior Research Specialist (SRS) position in AISA within the Africa, BRICS and the Global South Division. While we seek to appoint an individual who has a background in humanities and social sciences, the candidate that is ideal should be able to demonstrate use of technology and the ability to create a multi-disciplinary approach to research. The role will, from time-to-time, demand working outside South Africa as per the mandate needs of AISA. We encourage female and/or people who are differently-abled and who are South African Citizens to apply.

Minimum Requirements    

• A relevant Ph.D. (NQF 10) qualification and experience in the social, natural or economic sciences with at least 5 years in a research environment.
• At least 7 publications in peer-reviewed journals i.e. accredited.
• Proven experience in conducting/implementing in-depth research in other African countries.

Additional requirements:

• Seasoned researcher in the areas of good governance, human rights, and the rule of law in Africa.
• Special interest in the areas of Agenda 2063 and SADC frameworks i.e. STI protocol, including intersectional challenges in Africa’s development
• Demonstrable ability to create ways of producing cutting-edge research outputs.
• Experience in quantitative and qualitative research approaches and the ability to undertake advanced statistical analysis using appropriate/relevant software.

Duties & Responsibilities    

• The candidate is expected to contribute to research funding proposals, publish journal articles and book chapters in a scientific manner i.e. accredited and open access (where possible).
• Ability to plan deliverables to enhance the Institute’s performance profile and conduct policy-relevant and engaged research.
• Collaborating with other colleagues working on existing or new projects, engaging high-level stakeholders through evidence dissemination or consultative strategy within and outside South Africa’s borders.
• The successful incumbent will be expected to travel to countries of interest as part of the data collection for research projects – this will be part of advancing mutual co-delivery with strategic partners where necessary, as well as delivering on public engagement with scholars, researchers, and policymakers.
• The preferred candidate should be versatile and able to fit in a fast-paced environment.
• Co-develop and/or be able to work on Artificial Intelligence research and policy gaps in Africa, use of technology and innovation to respond to climate change in Africa. The incumbent is not limited to performing in the aforementioned areas, it will be crucial to think beyond areas of specialisation.
• It is anticipated that the appointed candidate will also endeavour to create an enabling environment for emerging researchers and identify opportunities for AISA research outcomes to be applied through collaboration on the continent.

Closing date: November 21, 2025

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 Job Advert Summary    

• The Research Impact division (RID) plays a pivotal role in ensuring that the Human Sciences Research Council’s (HSRC) work extends beyond academic outputs to create real and lasting change in society. Our mission is to support, strengthen, and institutionalise the impact of HSRC research by aligning it with South Africa’s development priorities and the broader African and global context.
• The Research Impact Division comprises five interconnected units, each contributing to our overarching goal of translating research into measurable impact: Impact Assessment and Evaluation; Publishing; External Capacity Development and Internship; Strategic Partnerships and Internationalisation; Research Ethics. Together, these units ensure that the HSRC’s research is not only rigorous and relevant, but also transformative in helping to shape a more inclusive, informed, and just society.
• Reporting to the Divisional Executive - in the Research Impact Division, within the HSRC, the division therefore, seeks to appoint a suitably qualified Director: Strategic Partnerships & Internationalisation to develop, monitor and analyse new strategic initiatives for the HSRC’sstrategic partnerships strategy of the organization in the provision of specialist services and solutions aimed at driving key partnerships between internal research stakeholders and external policy makers to further drive impactful research that leads to sustainable policy improvements within state bodies, as determined by the strategic objectives and the mandate of the HSRC
•  Internal and External Advert
• Director: Strategic Partner & Internationalisation
•  Pretoria Based
• Permanent Contract

Minimum Requirements    

• A PhD (NQF Level 10) in the humanities, social sciences, or another relevant discipline.
• At least 10 years of relevant experience in research, research administration, or international engagement, with a focus on building strategic partnerships and global cooperation.
• Demonstrated experience in science diplomacy, international relations, or representing research institutions in multilateral forums.
• Proven leadership experience in developing and managing partnerships, networks, and stakeholder relationships across diverse sectors and geographies.
• A strong track record of driving research initiatives that have informed or influenced national and international policy.
• Additional Requirements:
• Excellent professional and academic writing skills.
• High levels of computer literacy, internet, and proficiency in Microsoft Office and online collaboration platforms;
• Ability to thrive in a fast-paced, multicultural, and multidisciplinary environment.

Duties & Responsibilities    

• Execute and implement a comprehensive Strategic Partnerships, Internationalisation and Science Diplomacy strategy aligned with the HSRC’s strategic objectives.
• Coordinate the development of strategic initiatives that advance the HSRC’s leadership role in science diplomacy, including multilateral and bilateral research cooperation, capacity building, and knowledge exchange.
• Build and sustain visible national, continental, and international partnerships that result in impactful collaborative research, high-quality publications, policy dialogues, and evidence reviews that influence public policy.
• Identify and secure strategic external partners, both locally and internationally, that align with the HSRC’s mission to promote inclusive and evidence-informed development.
• Serve as the HSRC’s focal point for science diplomacy initiatives, fostering collaboration between researchers, policymakers, and international stakeholders to advance South Africa’s research and innovation diplomacy objectives.
• Facilitate engagement between the HSRC and intergovernmental partners such as the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation, the Department of International Relations and Cooperation, and UNESCO to strengthen South Africa’s global knowledge diplomacy footprint.
• Lead and nurture relationships of trust and influence across all levels of the organisation and with external partners.
• Oversee a programme of engaged science and diplomacy, connecting research outputs with societal impact and innovative solutions to South Africa’s and Africa’s challenges.
• Ensure operational excellence, financial sustainability, and compliance with the HSRC’s governance and ethical frameworks.
• Represent the HSRC in high-level national and international forums, including science diplomacy dialogues, to advance institutional visibility and strategic positioning.
• Champion a culture of integrity, collaboration, and inclusivity in all processes and partnerships.

Closing date: November 21, 2025