Hub for Multilingual Education and Literacies (HuMEL) is Seeking a Research Assistant – Apply By 16 April 2026

The Hub for Multilingual Education and Literacies (HuMEL), based at the University of the Witwatersrand, is currently seeking to appoint a Research Assistant to support its growing portfolio of research activities. This opportunity is suited to an individual who is passionate about education, language, and research development, and who is eager to contribute to impactful academic work within a dynamic institutional environment.

Overview of the Role

The Research Assistant will play a critical role in supporting the coordination and execution of research initiatives within the Hub. The position is designed to ensure the smooth functioning of research processes by providing both administrative and technical support. The successful candidate will work closely with researchers, project leads, and stakeholders to maintain high standards of research quality, organization, and output.

This role requires a detail-oriented and proactive individual capable of managing multiple responsibilities while maintaining accuracy and efficiency. The Research Assistant will contribute to various stages of the research lifecycle, from project coordination and documentation to data handling and reporting.

Key Responsibilities

The Research Assistant will be expected to:

• Support the coordination and management of multiple research projects within the Hub, ensuring timelines and deliverables are met
• Assist in the development and preparation of research proposals, reports, and presentations for internal and external stakeholders
• Maintain comprehensive and accurate records of research activities, including datasets, documentation, and project files
• Contribute to data-related tasks such as:
  • Data collection
  • Data capturing and organization
  • Basic data analysis, where required
• Provide logistical and operational support for:
  • Training sessions
  • Workshops
  • Research-related facilitation activities
• Perform general administrative duties to ensure the efficient functioning of the Hub’s research operations

Minimum Requirements

Candidates applying for this role should meet the following criteria:

• A Bachelor’s degree in Education
• Demonstrated interest or experience in research administration or academic project support
• Strong organizational and time-management skills, with the ability to prioritize tasks effectively
• High level of attention to detail and accuracy in handling information
• Ability to work independently while maintaining accountability
• Strong written and verbal communication skills
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite, including:
  • Microsoft Word
  • Microsoft Excel
  • Microsoft PowerPoint
• A valid driver’s licence

In addition, a background in language studies and/or project management will be considered a significant advantage.

Desired Skills and Attributes

While not mandatory, the following competencies will strengthen a candidate’s application:

• Experience in research data management and/or data analysis
• Exposure to training, facilitation, or workshop coordination
• Ability to work collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team environment
• Strong problem-solving skills and the ability to adapt to changing project needs
• Capacity to manage multiple tasks simultaneously while meeting deadlines
• Professionalism, reliability, and a commitment to high-quality outputs

Work Environment and Impact

The Research Assistant will join a collaborative and intellectually stimulating environment within HuMEL, contributing to research that advances multilingual education and literacy practices. The role offers an opportunity to engage with meaningful projects that have both academic and societal relevance.

By supporting research processes and contributing to knowledge production, the successful candidate will play a part in strengthening the Hub’s impact within the broader educational and research landscape.

Application Details

Interested candidates are invited to submit the following:

• A comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV)
• A cover letter outlining their suitability for the role

Applications should be sent via email to:
[email protected]

Closing Date: 16 April 2026

Applicants are encouraged to apply before the deadline, as late submissions may not be considered.

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Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization that is offering this opportunity. For any inquiries, please contact the official organization directly. Please do not send your applications & CVs 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.