About the position
Postion Summary:
TWe are seeking to appoint a proactive a Research Management Specialist for International Collaborative Research Grants to support the coordination, development, and enhancement of South Africa’s participation in European Commission (Horizon) Programs and multilateral international collaboration.
Key Responsibilities:
- Support the establishment and strengthening of sustainable international university networks and relationships
- Assist in developing and managing initiatives that promote international exposure, collaboration, and mentorship for researchers, postgraduate students, and staff
- Coordinate activities such as joint academic programmes, research collaborations, conferences, and outreach initiatives
- Facilitate funding opportunities for researchers and students, including logistical support
- Support the development of joint proposals and projects aimed at global research and innovation
- Foster the sharing of best practices and knowledge among participating institutions
- Monitor and evaluate the impact of network activities, ensuring alignment with strategic objectives
- Contribute to the development of strategic and operational plans for university networks
- Collaborate with national and international partners, government agencies, and stakeholder bodies to facilitate partnership opportunities
Minimum Qualification:
- Honours Degree / Post Graduate Qualification / Professional Qualification / NQF 8
Minimum Experience:
- Honours degree
- Master’s qualification will be an added advantage
- Proven experience in one or more of the following: university partnerships, international collaboration, project management, and/or research networks development
- Strong understanding of the international higher education environment, including internationalisation and university networks
- Excellent communication, stakeholder engagement, and interpersonal skills
- Demonstrated ability to manage multiple projects, prioritise effectively, and deliver results within deadlines
- Proficiency in MS Office, data management, and reporting tools
Experience:
- 3 years of proven experience in one or more of the following: university partnerships, international collaboration, research support, project management and/or university networks
- Demonstrated expertise in fostering institutional relationships, and/or supporting collaborative initiatives
- Stakeholder relationships across diverse institutions and organisations
- Skilled in capacity-building and data management tools
Knowledge:
- Strategic thinking and capacity-building skills
- Understand funding frameworks development process Ability to foster trust and collaborative relationships among diverse stakeholders
- Knowledge of funding mechanisms and partnership development
- Strong organisational and coordination skills
- Stakeholder management and diplomacy skills
- Ability to work independently and as part of a team
- Problem-solving and innovative mindset
- Adaptability to dynamic work environments
- Good presentation and report-writing skills
The NRF website provides more details on the initiatives and activities Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by registering and apply online through the NRF Recruitment and Selection Portal. Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicant·s suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided.
Desired Skills:
- Skilled in applied field of position
- Knowledge to be relevant
- Responsible in performing duties
About The Employer:
The National Research Foundation (NRF) is established by an Act of Parliament and mandated to contribute to national development by supporting, promoting and advancing research and human capacity development, through funding and the provision of the necessary research infrastructure, in order to facilitate the creation of knowledge, innovation and development in all fields of science and technology, including humanities, social sciences and indigenous knowledge; and supporting and promoting public awareness of, and engagement with, science The NRF is a well-established organisation that is highly networked within the knowledge system, nationally and internationally. It is the principal organisation responsible for promoting the national research enterprise and is the primary public funder of postgraduate students and researchers and provider of research infrastructure in the country. It has well-developed, best practice research evaluation and support systems.
