The Institute for Poverty, Land and Agrarian Studies (PLAAS) at the University of the Western Cape engages in research, post-graduate teaching and supervision, short-course training and policy advocacy in to land, agriculture, food systems, natural resources management, social protection, and the dynamics of chronic poverty in contexts of structural inequality.
Applications are invited for a one-year contract post of Associate Research at PLAAS. The Associate Researcher will be part of the Resilient and Equitable Nature-based Pathways in Southern African Rangelands (REPAiR) project. This project examines how community-led approaches to nature- based solutions can support adaptability and resilience in Southern Africa’s rangelands.
Closing date for applications:
20 June 2025
Requirements:
- A Master’s degree in a relevant Social Sciences Discipline (Anthropology, Sociology, Development Studies, Geography and other related disciplines).
- Familiarity with the application of both qualitative and quantitative research approaches.
- Proficient in participatory research approaches, ethnographic methods, storytelling and household surveys in rural research.
- Demonstrable experience working with marginalised rural communities and understanding of local socio-economic and cultural dynamics.
- Proficiency in Nguni languages, specifically isiXhosa and isiZulu.
- Willingness to travel to research sites as required.
- Ability to communicate research findings with diverse audiences (farmers, civil society and policy makers).
- A current driving license (Code 8, no endorsements).
Responsibilities:
- Gathering data through participatory research approaches, ethnographic methods, storytelling, photovoice methodology and household surveys.
- Organising community meetings and participatory workshops with stakeholders, rural communities and local farmers.
- Literature review, transcribing interviews, data analysis and write-up of research findings.
- Contribute to research outputs in the form of working papers, peer reviewed journals and policy briefs.
- Communicating research findings in both popular and academic formats.
Application process:
Apply via our online form. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.
Queries:
Joy Van Dieman: jvandieman@plaas.org.za
