Researcher (V002767/ V000139) (2 Positions)
Listing reference: nwu_004655
Listing status: Online
Apply by: 30 September 2026
Position summary
Industry: Education & Training
Job category: University and Academy
Location: Vanderbijlpark
Contract: Fixed Term Contract
About our company
NWU
Introduction
NORTH-WEST UNIVERSITY (VANDERBIJLPARK CAMPUS) | FACULTY OF HUMANITIES– OPTENTIA RESEARCH UNIT | POSITION NUMBER: V002767/ V000139 | VACANCY: RESEARCHER (TWO POSITIONS) | PEROMNES GRADE: A8 | EMPLOYMENT TYPE: FIXED-TERM APPOINTMENT
Job description
PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
The incumbent of this position will serve as a researcher in the Technology and Capability sub-programme within Optentia. The sub-programme aims to research the integration of technology, capabilities and functioning of people, with a focus on ensuring that advances in technology — such as robotics, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and virtual reality — are developed and applied in the service of humanity. The purpose of the position is to create and produce research outputs (peer-reviewed articles, master's dissertations and PhD theses, conference papers and peer-reviewed handbooks) through own research efforts and the efforts of master's and PhD students by using the best available research methods and techniques in an ethical way to contribute to a well-functioning research entity and competent students and staff members. The incumbent plays a vital role in providing expertise on the intersection of technology and human functioning in multidisciplinary research projects within the research entity.
The incumbent of this position will serve as a researcher in the Technology and Capability sub-programme within Optentia. The sub-programme aims to research the integration of technology, capabilities and functioning of people, with a focus on ensuring that advances in technology — such as robotics, artificial intelligence, augmented reality, and virtual reality — are developed and applied in the service of humanity. The purpose of the position is to create and produce research outputs (peer-reviewed articles, master's dissertations and PhD theses, conference papers and peer-reviewed handbooks) through own research efforts and the efforts of master's and PhD students by using the best available research methods and techniques in an ethical way to contribute to a well-functioning research entity and competent students and staff members. The incumbent plays a vital role in providing expertise on the intersection of technology and human functioning in multidisciplinary research projects within the research entity.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
RESEARCH
- Apply for funding for multidisciplinary research projects.
- Conduct research and publish findings in reputable national and international journals.
- Co-supervise master’s and PhD students.
- Initiate and maintain national and international research networks.
- Participate in the evaluation of ethics and research proposals.
- Ensure effective research administration.
TEACHING AND LEARNING
- Develop new content and methods in the field of technology and capability.
- Arrange and present workshops on research methodology as well as technology and capability for various targeted groups.
- Develop, register and present Short Learning Programmes.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT
- Work with communities to promote technology and capability.
Minimum requirements
- A Master's degree (NQF Level 9) in Psychology/Industrial Psychology/Social Sciences/Information Technology.
- A minimum of two (2) years' experience in working with inclusion, diversity and decolonisation.
- A minimum of two (2) years' experience of research.
ADDED ADVANTAGES:
- A PhD (NQF Level 10) in Psychology/Industrial Psychology/Social Sciences/Information Technology.
- At least 3 peer-reviewed publications and 2 international conference papers.
KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:
- Expert knowledge of technology capability and functionings.
- Computer literacy and competence in the use of software programmes for qualitative/quantitative analyses (e.g. SPSS, JASP, ATLAS).
- Knowledge of and experience in research administration.
- Presentation skills (for conferences and workshops), networking skills (national and international levels), analytical skills, skills to work independently and as part of a multidisciplinary team, client and student orientation, and communication skills.
KEY BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:
- An output and quality orientation.
- Flexibility and conflict management to work with diverse groups.
- Maturity and drive.
- Autonomous behaviour.
REMUNERATION:
The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.
ENQUIRIES REGARDING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Prof Blessed Ngwenya (016) 910 4475
ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Vuyi Ramavhulela (018) 299 4904
CLOSING DATE: 30 September 2026
PLANNED COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES: As soon as possible
Kindly take note: applications must be submitted online through the official nwu vacancy website. Incomplete applications and those submitted through any other platform will not be considered.
The University subscribes to and applies the principles of Employment Equity (EE) Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the EE Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan.
The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.
If you are not contacted within two months of the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.
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