PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

To ensure an environment that is conducive to achievement of high-level research ethics and integrity by facilitating a climate that fosters Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR) by all researchers (academics and postgraduate students). As research integrity advisor the incumbent will support the faculty management in all matters related to research integrity. The Senior Manager will provide leadership in matters related to research ethics and research integrity and ensure that the Integrated Research Integrity Management System (IRIMS) maximises the quality and robustness of the NWU’s research.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Management and Planning:

• Ensure effective planning of the research ethics and integrity administrative component on macro level (mission) and micro level (planning, management and delivery of research ethics and integrity programme).
• Manage research ethics and integrity resources effectively and efficiently to ensure the budget and programme plan objectives are met.
• Provide leadership and management of the NWU Integrated Research Integrity Management System (IRIMS).
• Developing, documenting and maintaining, frameworks and tools for research integrity interventions.
• Management of research ethics and integrity workload and allocation of duties where appropriate.

Management of internal and external stakeholder relationships:

• Manage professional relationships with internal research management stakeholders (Deans, Deputy Deans, Directors, Researcher Ethics Committees).
• Identify and prioritise internal stakeholders according to responsible conduct of research v/s research integrity breaches.
• Detect and use opportunities for meaningful collaboration within and across research integrity systems of the institution.
• Provide research integrity mentorship (advice) and support to faculties.

• As the Research Integrity Advisor (RIA), support faculty management to foster a climate of Responsible Conduct of Research (RCR).
• As Research Integrity Officer (RIO), support faculty management to manage breaches in RCR.
• Ensure effective administration related to RI reported breaches on faculty level.
• Identify and anticipate possible RCR risks and risk factors and develop a plan to mitigate these risks.

Training:

• Lead research ethics integrity training initiatives.
• Conduct project reviews to assess outcomes of training interventions/improvements.
• Provide training and guidance to colleagues across the institution to develop research integrity management capabilities.
• Conduct research that models future strategic positioning of research ethics and integrity.

• Leave and performance management of personnel in the Research Ethics and Integrity Programme.
• Performance management of temporary staff.
• Participate in recruitment and selection of staff and interns in Research and Postgraduate Support.

ADDED ADVANTAGES & RECOMMENDATIONS:

•  Legal Appointments.
•  Membership with the Southern African Research & Innovation Management Association (SARIMA).

KEY FUNCTIONAL/TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Professional and academic leadership and skills.
• Proven knowledge of the higher education landscape.
• Building networks and maintaining effective liaison with key stakeholders.
• Project Planning & Execution - Develop necessary protocols, manuals and operational guidelines for the strategic projects.
• Sufficient level of technical background to accurately and objectively evaluate project risks.
• Planning, organising, supporting, supervising, disseminating, higher degrees support projects.
• Managing multi-phase projects.
• Proven knowledge of research management.

BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Organisational and problem solving skills.
• Time management skills and ability to meet strict deadlines.
• Discretion when handling confidential and sensitive information.
• Strong interpersonal skills including mentoring, coaching, collaborating and team building.
• Strong analytical skills with the ability to manage competing demands.
• Negotiation, innovative and creative skills.
• People management skills and the ability to collaborate with stakeholders at all levels of the organisation

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 REGADING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO:          Prof. Nnenesi Kgabi on 018 299 4848/52

ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Mr. Rabs Diratsagae on 018 299 4797

CLOSING DATE:                                                                                                   26 November 2024

COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES:                                                                           As soon as possible

Kindly take note: applications may only 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 the Employment Equity Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the aforementioned Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan.

The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.