Senior Researcher (P7) (Faculty of Humanities: SARChI Chair: African Diplomacy and Foreign Policy) (3 Year Fixed-Term Contract)

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a vibrant and cosmopolitan institution, guided by its bold UJ Strategy 2035, which emphasises Societal Impact and Sustainability, Global Footprint and Partnerships, and Technology for the Future. Committed to transformative change, UJ’s mission is “To transform and serve humanity through innovation and the collective and collaborative pursuit of knowledge.” The University is guided by the vision of building “An international university of choice, anchored in Africa and the global south, dynamically shaping a sustainable future”.

Position Overview

We are seeking a highly experienced Senior Researcher (P7) for a 3-year fixed-term contract within the Faculty of Humanities. This vital role is specifically for the SARChI Chair in African Diplomacy and Foreign Policy, based at our Auckland Park Kingsway Campus. This is a full-time, management-level position, open to EE (Employment Equity) candidates, offering market-related remuneration.

About the SARChI Chair: African Diplomacy and Foreign Policy

The SARChI Chair in African Diplomacy and Foreign Policy is a leading research programme focusing on two concurrent challenges: refining South Africa’s national interests within its ‘African Agenda’, and enhancing African agency on the world stage through research into Africa’s inter-state and international relations.

Our vision is to be a respected Pan-African research and postgraduate development centre of international repute, engaging with African challenges through rigorous research in diplomacy and foreign policy.

Key Responsibilities

• Initiate and lead significant research projects specifically in African diplomacy, foreign policy, and international relations.
• Publish high-quality academic work in reputable journals and books.
• Provide expert supervision and guidance to postgraduate students.
• Develop and write successful proposals for grant-funded research projects.
• Liaise with external partners and actively disseminate research findings.
• Prepare and submit comprehensive reports to donors.

Minimum Requirements

• A relevant Doctoral degree.
• At least five (5) years of experience in research coordination or management.
• Proven experience in the supervision of postgraduate students.
• An excellent track record of publications in diplomacy, foreign policy, and/or international relations.

Required Competencies and Attributes

• Strong initiative and self-motivation.
• Excellent team player capabilities.

Application Process

To apply, please upload your detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV) along with the names and full contact details (including telephone numbers and email addresses) of at least three traceable and credible referees. You must also attach a copy of your highest academic qualification, proof of registration with any professional bodies you belong to, and a list of your accredited research outputs.

Applications must be submitted on or before 4 November 2025.

For technical support or assistance with the UJ e-recruitment website, please contact our service provider PNET at 0861 227337 / 010 140 3099 or email [email protected].

If you have not received a response from the University within 8 weeks of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.

Important Information

Candidates may be subjected to appropriate psychometric testing and other selection instruments.

In conjunction with merit based on qualifications, experience, and proven achievements, the University of Johannesburg is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities and those individuals from historically disadvantaged groups.

Please be aware that the University is legally obligated, in terms of recent amendments to the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 2021 (Act 13 of 2021), to assess all prospective employees (including applicants) against the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO). The outcome of such an assessment may have an impact on possible employment with the University. For more information, please review the following link: Justice/Criminal/NRSO.