Research Director: ViAMUS (PD00004)
Position summary
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Introduction
Job description
PURPOSE OF THE POSITION
Management of research and research capacity development within the research entity ViAMUS; as well as supervision of higher degree students and supporting staff to develop supervision capacity; conducting practice-led research and producing research and creative outputs.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
1. Strategy Development:
- Preparation and implementation of a strategic research plan for the research entity within the research strategy of the university and the faculty
2. Operational Management:
- Jointly accountable for the successful implementation of the NWU Research and Innovation strategy
- Expert guidance, innovation and initiative with regard to research and creative output programmes in the research entity.
- Preparation of applications and actively trying to obtain funds, facilities and equipment for the research entity through independent initiatives and through activation of researchers’ potential in this regard.
- Organisation and coordination of resources for achievement of goals
- Planning and organisation of ways to market the research expertise of the research entity
- Supporting researchers to participate in the programmes in the research entity.
- Participation in the task agreement with school directors for these researchers
- Plan and implement capacity building opportunities for entity members and higher degree students.
- Implementation of applicable quality promotion and assurance systems and mechanisms to ensure high-quality research outputs.
- Management of integration with and participation of M and D students in programmes in the research entity.
- Development of a positive image of the research entity through effective liaison and marketing.
- Drive community engagement initiatives that are integrated with research and innovation within the research area.
- Socially responsive local community projects, supportive of faculty objectives.
Minimum requirements
- A PhD in any area related to the Creative Industries and Performance Management (NQF Level 10).
- A minimum of three (3) years’ experience in research management at Programme Leader level or higher.
- A minimum of three (3) years’ postgraduate supervision experience, with at least one (1) PhD student and three (3) MA students completed
- Extensive knowledge and experience regarding all areas related to research and creative outputs in the research entity’s focus.
- Expert knowledge of methodological approaches
- Expert knowledge of analysing and interpretation of research
- Proven experience in research management of groups and individuals
- Experience in fund-raising and management of research projects recommended
- Proven experience in academic management related to higher degrees.
BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:
- Proven leadership qualities
- A dynamic and value-driven approach with excellent interrelationship skills
- Proven Management skills.
- Open-mindedness
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: Mirna Nel on 016 910 3440
ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Byron Louw on 018 285 2304
CLOSING DATE: 19 October 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 from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.
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