ISS Researcher Opportunity in Pretoria to Shape Africa’s Future Through Data and Policy Analysis
- 🏢 Employer: Institute for Security Studies (ISS)
- 💼 Position: ISS Researcher – African Futures and Innovation Programme
- 📍 Location: Pretoria, South Africa
- 📄 Contract: 24-month fixed-term contract (subject to a three-month probation period)
- 💰 Remuneration: Competitive salary package
- 🎓 Minimum Qualification: Master’s degree in Economics, Statistics, or a related field
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The Institute for Security Studies is inviting applications for an ISS Researcher position within its African Futures and Innovation (AFI) programme based in Pretoria. This opportunity is ideal for professionals with strong analytical and quantitative research skills who are passionate about using data, forecasting, and scenario modelling to inform policies that shape Africa’s future.
The ISS Researcher role offers a 24-month fixed-term contract and comes with a competitive salary package. Working within the Institute for Security Studies, the successful candidate will collaborate with leading experts to analyse long-term trends and produce evidence-based recommendations across sectors including governance, economics, education, health, energy, agriculture, and conflict.
About the ISS Researcher Role
The ISS Researcher will use the International Futures (IFs) modelling platform, together with international datasets, to conduct trend analysis and develop policy-relevant scenarios for countries and regions across Africa. Findings generated through this work contribute directly to the African Futures and Innovation website and support policymakers in making informed decisions.
As part of the Institute for Security Studies, the researcher will help translate complex forecasting data into practical insights that promote sustainable development and long-term prosperity across the continent.
Vacancy Overview
| Category | Details |
|---|---|
| Position | ISS Researcher |
| Organisation | Institute for Security Studies |
| Programme | African Futures and Innovation (AFI) |
| Location | Pretoria, South Africa |
| Contract | 24-month fixed-term |
| Remuneration | Competitive salary package |
| Minimum Qualification | Master’s degree in Economics, Statistics, or related field |
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The ISS Researcher position provides an opportunity to contribute to one of Africa’s leading policy research institutions while working on issues with continental significance.
Key Responsibilities
The successful ISS Researcher will update country, regional, and thematic profiles for the AFI platform while conducting trend analysis and scenario modelling using the International Futures system and other data sources.
Responsibilities also include developing policy recommendations, monitoring developments affecting Africa’s future, communicating research findings through reports and presentations, participating in expert forums, and engaging with stakeholders and donors.
In addition, the ISS Researcher will contribute blogs and research publications, provide peer reviews for colleagues’ work, support monitoring and evaluation activities, and identify funding opportunities through concept notes and proposal development.
Qualifications and Skills
Applicants for the ISS Researcher role should hold a Master’s degree in Economics, Statistics, or a related discipline. A PhD will be considered an advantage.
The Institute for Security Studies seeks candidates with excellent quantitative research and analytical abilities, strong written and verbal communication skills in English, and the capacity to work independently while meeting deadlines. French language proficiency and previous policy research experience within government, think tanks, or similar organisations will be advantageous.
Strong interpersonal skills, adaptability, and a willingness to learn are also important qualities for success in this role.
Why Join the Institute for Security Studies?
Joining the Institute for Security Studies as an ISS Researcher offers the chance to work alongside leading African policy experts on projects that influence decision-making across the continent. Researchers contribute to evidence-based solutions addressing critical challenges while developing expertise in forecasting, policy analysis, and international development.
The role combines academic research with practical policy engagement, making it well suited to professionals seeking to shape Africa’s long-term development trajectory.
Recruitment Notice
The Institute for Security Studies is recruiting South African citizens and foreign nationals with valid South African work permits who are residing in South Africa. Applicants should submit a cover letter, detailed CV including publications, and three contactable referees. Selection will be based on qualifications, research capability, and relevant professional experience, with only shortlisted candidates progressing through the recruitment process.
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