Master’s Research Trainees

Closing date yi 10 ka July 2026

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) seeks to appoint Master's Research Trainees with a strong interest in the human and social sciences.
The successful candidates will contribute to innovative, policy-relevant and interdisciplinary research that addresses South Africa's developmental challenges and advances social transformation.
The programme offers exposure to research across the HSRC's key focus areas, including democracy, governance and citizenship; education, skills and inclusive economic development; public health, public policy, science in society, social wellbeing and belonging; African development, global engagement and sustainable human security.
Through its research divisions, the HSRC generates evidence and knowledge that inform policy, strengthen institutions, support inclusive development and contribute to building a capable state, a cohesive society and resilient communities.
The HSRC's vision is to be a leading centre of excellence in human and social sciences research, advancing a better South Africa, a better Africa and a better world.
Its mission is to conduct impactful research that informs policy and practice, builds research capacity, and promotes social justice, human dignity and sustainable development.

Applicants must be South African citizens, in possession of a relevant Honours degree in a human or social science discipline; and be registered for Masters degree at the time of appointment or register during the first six (6) months of appointment at a recognised South African university;
Working experience with some of the following data software packages: STATA, SPSS, R, Nvivo, AtlasTI or other relevant statistical packages.

Demonstrated interest in, and understanding of, contemporary social, economic, developmental, governance, health, education and public policy issues affecting South Africa, Africa and the broader global context;
A sound grounding in research methods will be a strong recommendation;
Requisite computer skills (e.g. Microsoft Office);
Ability to work well under pressure and to meet.

In addition to being registered for a Master’s degree, at a recognised South African university and
currently working on their degrees, or eligible for registration at a recognised South African university, research trainees are required to participate in all aspects of the research process as they work with other staff on different research projects.
Among other duties, they will participate in the following activities under supervision:
Participation in the conceptualisation and execution of research projects;
Participation in the formulation of research questions and writing proposals;
Assisting with the submission of research proposals for ethical review;
Management or supervision of research projects Collection and analysis of data;
Writing-up of research results, research reports and manuscripts for publication;
Presenting results of projects in different forums (webinars, conferences, seminars, and other forums).

In delivering 'social science that makes a difference' in South Africa and the region, the Research Programmes of the Human Sciences Research Council initiate and undertake policy-oriented research projects and programmes from its offices in Cape Town, Durban, Pietermaritzburg and Pretoria.
Its public-purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act No.17 of 2008.
The HSRC aims to attract and retain high-calibre skills and human resources necessary to effectively execute both its mandate to conduct research and to support the strategic intent of the organisation.
The HSRC is committed to accelerating the improvement in the proportion of South African Citizens who are black, female, or disabled towards achieving Equity goals.
The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.
Application from recruitment agencies will not be accepted.