5 January 2021

An opportunity for a postdoctoral researcher at CREST is currently available. The successful applicant will participate in bibliometric studies and studies of research uptake/impact and/or valorisation in the context of the Southern African Development Community (SADC). At least two research projects are envisaged: (1) a project to explore and map the impact contributions of South African-Zimbabwean research collaboration, and (2) a bibliometric study of global research production in forestry research, with a specific focus on South Africa and Tanzania.

The fellowship is available for a period of two years, starting 1 March 2021, and may be renewed based on performance and available funding. Please note that postdoctoral fellows are not appointed as employees and are therefore not eligible for employee benefits.

Requirements

  • A PhD in science and technology studies that is not older than five years.
  • Previous experience in performing a comprehensive bibliometric analysis of the research output and collaboration of a SADC country, other than South Africa.
  • Previous experience in performing a study of research uptake or valorisation in the context of a SADC country, other than South Africa.
  • Previous experience with author-level bibliometric analyses.
  • Proven familiarity with the Web of Science (WoS) and Scopus databases, and the challenges of using local data sources (e.g. national research repositories) in bibliometric analyses.
  • At least two relevant articles in DHET approved journals, one of which must be an international journal indexed in the WoS, e.g. Scientometrics.
  • Computer literacy, with an emphasis on Microsoft Word, Access, Excel, PowerPoint and SPSS, as well as good writing skills.
  • Undergraduate studies in Library and Information Science will be an advantage.

Applications

Applicants should send a completed application form (to be requested from mvn3@sun.ac.za) and a comprehensive curriculum vitae, which includes a list of publications and the names and contact details of two referees, to Marthie van Niekerk at mvn3@sun.ac.za. Applicants should request their referees to forward confidential reports by the closing date directly to the same e-mail address.

Closing date for application is 29 January 2021.

The University reserves the right not to fill the position.

The University reserves the right to investigate qualifications and conduct background checks on all candidates.