Project Coordinator (P003220)
Position summary
Introduction
Job description
PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
This is a position within the Development of Advanced Researchers and Research Programes project (UCDG 2024 – 2026, Project 7). The UCDG-funded staff member will be appointed in Research and Postgraduate Support to support the Director/Manager and the Coordinator of the Research Development Program towards creating an enabling environment for the enhancement of excellence and visibility of researchers and research programs – contributing to the NWU APP Goal 2.
This appointee will be responsible for leading/coordinating the UCDG project: Development of advanced researchers and research programmes but will also contribute in terms of other Research Development activities in the Research and Postgraduate Support Environment.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
Coordination of the UCDG Project: Development of advanced researcher and research programmes
Coordinates the UCDG Project: The Development of Advanced Researchers and Research Programmes by:
- Contributing to the development and refinement of project plans and budgets to support researchers and research programmes towards the enhancement of research excellence and visibility.
- Developing guidelines, structures, frameworks, tools, documents, timelines and databases for project activities.
- Monitoring project implementation, spending, and progress against the targets. Keeping the Director/Manager/Coordinator(s) and UCDG management updated on the project status.
- Implementing budget control and monthly reconciliations, identifying risks and implement mitigation plans accordingly.
- Contributing to reports and providing statistics to internal and external stakeholders including reporting as project coordinator to UCDG, Management and DHET.
- Develops and maintains resourced Research Development project/activity plans, including funding/grant/mentorship call databases, and allocation of duties to admin assistants, interns or others where appropriate.
- Rolling out and implementing activities (such as mobility grants, consultation services, mentoring support, mentorship programme and developing and supporting research chairs) as stipulated in the UCDG project plan.
- Providing flexible, hands-on support, assistance, training and guidance to researchers and research programmes across the institution towards enhancement of researcher profiles, mentorship ability, NRF Rating status, and the development of Research Chairs.
- Implementing and maintaining appropriate systems and establish project controls to enable effective implementation of activities and research development outcomes.
- Maintaining databases for activities and keeping Research Development and UCDG project related records.
- Managing professional relationships and providing effective communication between Research Support and the relevant stakeholders.
- Works with the Research Development Coordinator on postdoctoral research fellowship matters, providing support with the capturing of postdoc applications and assisting with the postdoc registration and other postdoc processes and requests.
Financial Support regarding the relevant UCDG project and Post Doctoral Research Fellowship Programme
- Provides guidance, request payments and pre-approve KFS transactions related to the relevant UCDG project and provides financial support on other UCDG Projects and in the Research Development Programme where necessary.
- Provides financial support within the Post Doctoral Research Fellowship programme by assisting with the postdoc quarterly confirmation process in preparation of postdoc payments, processing of relocation claims, payment of postdoc stipends, transfer of running funds and institutional contributions for postdocs.
Minimum requirements
- A bachelor's degree or equivalent qualification (NQF level 7).
- A minimum of two (2) years’ experience in the higher education sector support environment.
- A minimum of one (1) year’s research management experience.
ADDED ADVANTAGES & PREFERENCES:
- An honours degree or equivalent qualification (NQF level 8).
- Membership with the Southern African Research & Innovation Management Association (SARIMA).
- A minimum of one (1) year project management experience.
KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:
- Analytical, planning, and organizational skills with an ability to prioritize and manage time.
- The ability to develop and communicate project-related forms, guidelines, and documentation for funding applications.
- Reporting and report writing skills.
- Structured with attention to detail, and accuracy in data handling.
- Sufficient level of financial background, planning and budgeting skills.
- Sufficient level of technical background and strong Computer skills (MS Office).
KEY BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:
- Good oral and written communication.
- Objectively evaluating applications and risks with discretion when handling confidential and sensitive information.
- Good work ethic, dedicated with the ability to work under pressure and meet deadlines.
- Strong interpersonal skills including team building and client-orientated.
- Experience in communicating, liaising, and interacting with stakeholders on various levels.
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: Mrs. MPE Meintjes on 018 299 4856
ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Mr. Diratsagae on 018 299 4797
CLOSING DATE: 14 February 2025
PLANNED COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES: As soon as possible
