Research Administrator

Minimum Requirements

• An Honours degree in Communications, Marketing, Journalism, or a related field.

• 2–5 years’ experience in communications, PR, digital media, or events coordination (experience in higher education or research environments is advantageous).

• Demonstrated experience producing content, managing social media platforms, and coordinating events.

• Excellent writing skills and a strong eye for detail.

Key Responsibilities: 1. Public Relations & Communications

• Compile, manage, and distribute CoE MaSS/GENUS communications—including the weekly newsletter—to relevant stakeholders.

• Update and maintain website content (events, funding calls, news items) in consultation with the CoE Manager.

• Manage and monitor CoE MaSS/GENUS social media platforms (Facebook, LinkedIn, X, YouTube) in line with the Centre’s Media Plan.

• Oversee the editing, quality review, and uploading of Seminar Series videos to the CoE-MaSS YouTube channel.

• Liaise with internal units (marketing, communications, printing) and external partners on media and communication matters.

• Connect CoE-MaSS/GENUS research outputs with media opportunities; draft and distribute media¿ready content where needed.

• Build, update, and maintain a database of media and communications contacts across sectors.

• Monitor the communications environment and alert the Manager/Director to potential opportunities, risks, or emerging issues.

2. Events Management

• Coordinate, schedule, and promote the CoE-MaSS Weekly Research Seminar Series.

• Support the hosting of visiting speakers and guests, including logistical arrangements.

• Coordinate venues, facilities, equipment, and documentation for CoE-MaSS/GENUS events.

• Manage the ordering and distribution of branded promotional materials and gifts.

• Liaise with stakeholders (researchers, partners, industry, and the public) for co¿hosted events and provide full event support.

3. Reports and publications

• Provide administrative support for possible joint grant applications to funders (e.g. NRF, philanthropic agencies, etc.) as required

• Compile relevant events/media/communication information required for reports

4. Other

• Perform other tasks or activities which fall within the general functioning of the CoE as determined by the Manager and/or Director of the CoE to further the aims of the Centre

Technical Skills Required

• Website Content Management (WordPress)

• Social media management (Facebook, LinkedIn, X, YouTube)

• Social media analytics & scheduling tools

• Newsletter/email distribution platforms

• YouTube Studio (uploads, metadata, optimisation)

• Basic SEO for digital content

• Canva/Adobe Express or similar design tools

• Excel/Sheets for databases, tracking and administration

• Event scheduling/project management tools (Outlook, Teams, Planner, Trello)

• Microsoft Office Suite (Word, PowerPoint, Excel)

Key Competencies

• Excellent written and verbal communication skills.

• Strong organisational and time management abilities.

• Ability to translate complex academic material for general audiences.

• Proactive problem-solving with the ability to work independently and in teams.

• Professionalism, confidentiality, and exceptional interpersonal skills.

• Ability to build and maintain strong stakeholder relationships.

• Adaptability and readiness to respond to fast-moving communication needs.

Detailed Description

Additional Details

How To Apply

Applications: Only applicants who meet the minimum requirements should apply by submitting a cover letter accompanied by a detailed curriculum vitae, certified copies of all educational qualifications and identity document with names and email addresses of 3 referees.

Only SA citizens & SA Permanent Residents will be considered, due to this publicly funded DSTI-NRF grant.

To apply: Internal applicants are invited to apply directly on Oracle by following the path: iWits /Self Service Applications/ “Apply for a job”. External applicants are invited to apply by registering their profile on the Wits i-Recruitment platform located at https://irec.wits.ac.za and submitting applications.

Shortlisted candidates will be subjected to a competency assessment before interview.

15 June 2026

é Committed to excellence and equity

The University is committed to employment equity. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the relevant employment equity plans and policies of the University. The University retains the right not to make an appointment and to verify all information provided by candidates.

Please note that correspondence will only be entered into with shortlisted candidates. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment or to re-advertise.

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Work At Home