RESEARCH OFFICER – (2081)

The University of the Western Cape (UWC) is looking for a dedicated Research Officer to join the Centre for Innovative Education & Communication Technologies (CIECT). This is an exciting opportunity to contribute to UWC’s digital transformation by researching emergent technologies and innovative projects that enhance teaching, learning, and assessment practices, especially in online environments.

About the Role

CIECT plays a vital role in advancing UWC’s teaching and learning through technology. As a Research Officer, you will focus on research related to online teaching, learning, and assessment practices, as well as student access and success within the higher education sector. Your work will directly support the Centre’s strategic initiatives and the University’s Institutional Operating Plan.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct research on emerging technologies and global trends that influence the design of interactive learning environments.
• Stay updated with the latest research in designing interactive learning environments for higher education.
• Contribute to ongoing research on the evaluation of online design processes, focusing on access, navigation, utilization, reliability, and functionality of eTools within the Learning Management System (LMS) and other integrated learning platforms.
• Ensure all research deadlines are met and communicate effectively with the CIECT Director.
• Assist with national and international eLearning conferences, colloquia, seminars, and webinars.
• Understand and adhere to security and POPIA guidelines, especially UWC’s Ethical Clearance guidelines for research related to online learning and teaching environments.
• Prepare and submit required documentation to the Humanities and Social Sciences Research Ethics Committee (HSSREC) for ethical clearance.
• Demonstrate proficiency in both quantitative and qualitative data analysis.
• Possess excellent English communication skills, including the ability to write for publications, present research findings, and engage with academic and policy communities (evidenced by a publication track record).

Minimum Requirements

Education & Experience

• A Master’s degree (NQF Level 9).
• Four (4) years of relevant experience specifically in research related to improving teaching practices, especially online teaching, learning, and assessment (blended and fully-online) for student access and success in higher education.

Skills & Experience (Advantageous)

• Emerging Technologies: Strong knowledge of emerging technologies in teaching and learning within higher education, learning styles, and digital transformation strategies.
• Learning Management Systems (LMS): Research experience related to LMS contribution in enhancing teaching and learning, integration of online practices, alignment of course outcomes with online assessment tools, and eTools for course design.
• Communication and Reporting: Proven ability to coordinate and implement research, including data collection, management, analysis, and reporting.
• Design, Facilitation, and Publication:
  • Ability to design, develop, and execute research projects (data collection, surveys, literature reviews, various methodologies).
  • Excellent attention to detail and ability to work within timelines for research proposals, data collection, and analysis (qualitative/quantitative).
  • Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
  • Skilled in preparing, facilitating, and presenting conference papers, and publishing research papers.
  • Ability to stay current with research on the changing eLearning landscape and emerging technologies in Higher Education Institutions (HEIs).
  • Ability to share research ideas to enhance learning, teaching, and assessment.
  • Proficient in preparing comprehensive reports.

Minimum Competencies

• Strong analytical thinking and problem-solving skills.
• Ability to work effectively across interdisciplinary teams.
• Ability to identify current emerging research areas related to blended learning environments and facilitate their application for student success and access.
• Ability to explore and adapt to new research and best practice frameworks in the eLearning environment.
• Understanding of security and POPIA landscape, especially regarding research data, information sharing, and content storage.
• Working experience in research methodologies, statistics, and data analysis technology, particularly in blended and hybrid learning environments.
• Proven record of publishing in peer-reviewed, reputable education journals.

Application Process

To apply for this position, please ensure your application includes a cover letter motivating your suitability, a detailed curriculum vitae (CV) with contact details of three referees, and your highest qualification uploaded to your online profile.

Click on the “Apply for this Job” link on the UWC Careers website to submit your application directly. For any queries, you may contact the Human Resources Department at +27 21 959 4063/9763/9708/3551/3756 or email: [email protected].

Important Information

Closing Date: 15 October 2025

The University of the Western Cape is committed to diversifying its workforce and preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants in line with Employment Equity Targets. The University reserves the right to not make an appointment, make an appointment at a different level, or seek additional candidates. Competency assessments may be conducted.