Researcher on prosecutorial reform at the Institute for Security Studies

The ISS seeks an experienced, creative and committed researcher to work on prosecutorial reform. The researcher will work with a team of criminal justice experts, and be responsible for developing and implementing projects on the work and functions of South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). Informed and empirically-based solutions to the NPA’s operational challenges will need to be developed. The researcher will also support civil society efforts to promote an independent, accountable and effective prosecution service.

Applicants must have a thorough understanding and proven expertise in using quantitative and qualitative research methods, project management, and assisting a diverse range of organisations and individuals. The ideal candidate will be a highly-motivated, analytical thinker with exceptional research, communication and problem-solving skills, with knowledge of about the NPA.

The position is based in Pretoria, and the researcher will report to the Project Manager of the ISS’ NPA project.

Overview of duties 

• Initiate, plan and undertake primary and secondary research
• Produce and disseminate research findings through internal briefing papers, publications and other media in formats appropriate to the target audiences, including meetings, briefings, seminars and visual media
• Cultivate and maintain constructive working relationships with key partners and interlocutors
• Convene meetings, closed briefings and other events, and present research findings at relevant forums
• Assist the project with administrative and logistical activities, including but not limited to event coordination, budgets, meetings and internal ISS administrative processes
• Assist with monitoring and evaluation

Overview of requirements

• Master’s degree in social sciences, criminal justice, law, or related fields
• At least five years’ experience in a criminal justice policy, research, government, training or other relevant professional environment
• Ability to work with criminal justice data, including identification of data sources, data system management and analysis
• Strong networking, interpersonal and communication skills, in particular the ability to work collaboratively with government and civil society
• Expertise on the South African criminal justice system, and knowledge about the NPA
• Knowledge and experience of monitoring and evaluation
• Good written and verbal communication skills supported by a track record of relevant publications, media commentary and public speaking
• Excellent English language skills
• Ability to work under accurately and quickly under pressure, meet tight deadlines and operate independently

Applications are open to South African citizens only. Applicants must be willing and able to travel domestically and internationally. The length of the contract will be two years, and may be renewed subject to programme requirements, funding and satisfactory performance. A competitive salary is offered.