Job TitleSenior Director of ResearchLocationJohannesburg,ZAOrganization NameResearch OfficeDepartment DescriptionThe main purpose of this post is to provide strategic leadership and managerial oversight on research and innovation activities at the University of the Witwatersrand. This role requires a combination of management expertise, research experience, and strong leadership and communication skills. The incumbent will direct the Research and Innovation Office comprising a diverse team that provides support to academic staff and post-graduate students in all five Faculties. It is key position for a research-intensive university that aspires to excellence and impact in providing solutions to local and global challenges.Research management and administration is a critical function that, in a university context, consists of a wide range of tasks and responsibilities that lead, direct, support, encourage and nurture research and the associated researchers including post-graduate students.Brief DescriptionKey responsibilities include the following:
Developing research and innovation strategic plans that align with Wits 2033 Strategy Directing the University Research and Innovation Committee (UR&IC) a Senate and Council sub-committee appointed to oversee research Preparing the annual research budget and controlling its expenditure. Implementing initiatives and providing core services including ethics oversight that will promote research and support researchers. Managing a large group of people in the broader research office that contribute to a research conducive environment. Implement programs that facilitate interdisciplinarity, innovation and an inclusive graduate culture Development and implementation of an integrated approach for researcher development that includes supporting and mentoring staff pursuing doctoral studies and emerging researchers trying to establish a career in their areas of specialisation. Enable researcher-led innovation and the commercialization of intellectual property Provide leadership and support to grow the profession of research and innovation managers and administrators across the University.
Requirements:
PhD Degree or equivalent At least 10 years experience in research project management including pre- and post-award activities and people management including performance management. A strong research or research management track record. Appointment as an Associate or Full professor will be a significant advantage. Experience in ensuring compliance with a strong regulatory framework for finance, staff management and payments. Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to interact across a broad range of society including business, government and other national stakeholders as well as with students, staff (academic and professional staff), alumni, donors and potential donors across diverse cultures Excellent written and verbal skills, including the ability to write proposals, and make impactful presentations.Detailed DescriptionJob RequirementsAdditional DetailsHow To ApplySubmit a detailed CV with names, addresses (preferably email addresses) and contact details of 3 referees, certified copies of degrees and diplomas, and covering letter.
External applicants are invited to apply, by registering your profile on the Wits i- recruitment platform located at https://irec.wits.ac.za and submitting your application. Internal employees are invited to apply directly on Oracle by following the path: iWits /Self Service application/ Apply for a job
Closing date: 14 March 2025
The University is committed to employment equity. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the relevant employment equity plans and policies of the University. The University retains the right not to make an appointment and to verify all information provided by candidates.
Please note that correspondence will only be entered into with shortlisted candidates.The University reserves the right not to make an appointment or to re-advertise
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