The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) is recruiting a Researcher for its dynamic African Futures and Innovation (AFI) Programme (2-Year Contract): Apply Now!!

Researcher, African Futures and Innovation
Institute for Security Studies (ISS) | Pretoria, South Africa | 2-Year Contract
Application Deadline: 30 September 2025

Shape Africa’s Future with Evidence-Based Foresight

The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) is recruiting a Researcher to join its dynamic African Futures and Innovation (AFI) programme. This is a unique opportunity for a data-savvy and policy-driven professional to contribute to transformative change across Africa through quantitative forecasting, trend analysis, and strategic policy guidance.

If you’re passionate about sustainable development, data modelling, and driving Africa’s long-term prosperity, this role is your chance to be at the forefront of change.

About the African Futures and Innovation (AFI) Programme

AFI applies cutting-edge data analysis and forecasting tools to inform long-term development planning on the continent. Using the International Futures (IFs) system developed by the Frederick S. Pardee Center, the programme produces policy-relevant insights across a wide range of sectors including demographics, economics, health, education, agriculture, energy, environment, governance, and conflict.

AFI’s research feeds into its online platform and is widely used by policymakers, researchers, and development actors across Africa and globally.

What You’ll Do

• Conduct in-depth trend and scenario analysis using the IFs tool and international datasets.
• Develop and publish evidence-based policy recommendations to address Africa’s development challenges.
• Contribute to the development of country, regional, and thematic profiles.
• Stay up to date with African and global policy trends affecting the continent’s future.
• Translate complex data into accessible reports, presentations, and commentary for a broad audience.
• Represent ISS at events, seminars, roundtables, and technical workshops.
• Build relationships with policy stakeholders and donors to enhance ISS’ visibility and research uptake.
• Provide peer review, contribute to monitoring and evaluation, and report on programme outcomes.
• Identify funding opportunities and support the development of concept notes and proposals.

Who Should Apply

Minimum Requirements

• Master’s degree in economics, statistics, or a related discipline (PhD preferred).
• Relevant work experience in research, policy, training, or public sector environments.
• Strong analytical and quantitative skills, particularly in data modelling or trend analysis.
• Demonstrated ability to produce high-quality written research outputs.
• Fluent English communication skills, both written and verbal.

Preferred Attributes

• Proficiency in French is an asset.
• Experience with data modelling tools (especially International Futures) is a strong advantage.
• Excellent interpersonal and networking skills; able to collaborate in multicultural, cross-sector settings.
• Self-motivated and able to manage competing deadlines independently.
• Eagerness to learn, grow, and contribute to a mission-driven team.

Why Join the ISS?

• Impact-Driven Work: Contribute directly to shaping Africa’s development trajectory with rigorous, actionable research.
• Collaborative Team: Work alongside leading African researchers and policy experts.
• Professional Development: Build skills in strategic foresight, scenario planning, and regional policy engagement.
• Meaningful Networks: Engage with African governments, regional bodies, civil society, and international partners.

Contract Details

• Location: Pretoria, South Africa (on-site)
• Duration: 2-year contract, renewable based on performance
• Probation: 3 months
• Compensation: Competitive salary package aligned with qualifications and experience

How to Apply

Submit your application via email to Rekha Valabh at [email protected] by 30 September 2025.

Application must include:

• A cover letter detailing your motivation and fit for the role
• A comprehensive CV with at least three contactable referees

Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

Equity & Inclusion

The ISS is committed to employment equity and a diverse workplace. Female applicants are strongly encouraged to apply.

Be part of building a more prosperous and secure future for Africa. Join ISS and help turn data into decisions that matter.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the hiring organization. For any inquiries, please contact the hiring organization directly. Please do not send your applications to GSO, as we are unable to process them. Due to the high volume of emails we receive daily, we may not be able to respond to all inquiries. Thank you for your understanding.