Job Summary
- Employer: University of Botswana
- Job Type: Contract
- Location: Maun, Botswana
- Category: Research Management
- Salary: The University offers competitive salaries and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
- Closing Date: 2026-09-24
Key Responsibilities
- (a) Research Ethics Oversight : (i) Ensure the ORI Review Board is duly constituted, coordinate and functioning; (ii) Ensure compliance with ethical guidelines and regulations in all research activities conducted at the University; (iii) facilitate the delivery of relevant training programmes on research ethics and compliance; (iv) facilitate provision of guidance and support to researchers in addressing ethical considerations in their projects; (v) Enhance access to up-to-date information on research ethics and training; (vi) Ensure that Institute Review Board decisions are appropriately communicated
- (b) Statistical and Data Analysis: (i) support the development and sustenance of data science at the Research Institute through strategic support of the Senior Professional: Statistical and Data Analytics; (ii) Ensure collaboration with faculty and staff to enhance research methodologies and data analysis techniques; (iii) Oversee the identification and use of research tools and software for data analysis
- (c) Grants Management: (i) coordinate the grant application and management process within the Research Institute; (ii) Facilitate collaboration with researchers and Manager: Research and Partnerships to identify funding opportunities and prepare competitive grant proposals; (iii) Facilitate collaboration of finance unit with Grant Development Process; (iv) Monitor grant process, reporting and compliance with funding agencies
- (d) Post-Graduate Support: (i) Ensure compliance with regulations governing post-graduate studies; (ii) Ensure the Graduate Studies Board is duly constituted, coordinated and functioning, and chair it; (iii) Oversee recruitment, admission, registration, examination and graduation of students; (iv) Facilitate the delivery of programmes to support post-graduate students in their research endeavors; (v) Foster a supportive and productive research and learning environment for post-graduate students including their welfare
- (e) Customer and Stakeholder Experience: (i) Establish and maintain partnerships with relevant internal and external stakeholders to enable effective service delivery of departmental mandate, as necessary
- (f) People Management: (i) Participate in recruitment and ensure retention and development of a diverse team; (ii) Support Unit level professional development activities, including mentoring, training, and opportunities for advancement; (iii) conduct regular performance evaluations and provide constructive feedback to support continuous improvement to employees under supervision; (iv) Engage and discipline staff in accordance with defined human resource management policies and procedures and prevailing labour laws
- (g) Finance Management: (i) Assist with the development and management of the Institute budget; (ii) Develop and manage unit level budget; (iii) Recommend expenditure in accordance with delegated limits; (iii) Carry out any other duties as directorate by the Director: Okavango Research Institute.
Requirements
- At least a Master’s Degree in Social Sciences or related field is required
- A minimum of six (6) years of experience, three (3) of which should have been at senior professional level
- Experience in research support services, research ethics, statistics and grant management
- Experience in the academic research environment is preferred.
- Strong organization and communication skills as well as knowledge of research compliance and ethical standards
- Experience in research support services, research ethics, statistics and grants management
- Strong organizational and communication skills
- Knowledge of research compliance and ethical standards.
Salary
The University offers competitive salaries and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
How to Apply
Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3520
About the Company
The University of Botswana (UB) was established in 1982, as the first institution of higher education in Botswana. The university currently has three campuses: one in the capital city Gaborone, one in Francistown, and another in Maun. The University of Botswana is divided into six faculties: Business, Education, Engineering, Humanities, Health Sciences, Science and Social Sciences and the Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital. UB is ranked 1201–1500 in the world and 21st in sub-Saharan Africa in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Ranking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications and certifications are typically required for this role?
Candidates usually need a Master's degree or PhD in a relevant field, as this is a senior academic support position. Experience in research administration or grant management is highly valued by the University of Botswana.
What are the day-to-day responsibilities of a Research Support Services Manager?
The role involves overseeing grant applications, ensuring compliance with research ethics, and managing administrative support for faculty. You will likely coordinate between researchers and funding bodies to streamline project delivery.
What are the typical benefits associated with a fixed-term contract at a public institution in Botswana?
Benefits generally include paid annual leave and access to medical aid schemes. Pension contributions may vary depending on the specific terms of the fixed-term contract.
What should I expect regarding the work culture and professional expectations?
The environment is typically formal and hierarchical, requiring a high level of professional etiquette. Collaboration and respect for institutional protocols are essential for success in Botswana's academic sector.
What are the career progression opportunities after completing a fixed-term contract?
Successful tenure can lead to permanent appointments or senior leadership roles within research management. It also provides a strong foundation for transitioning into international research consultancy.
How should I apply, and what do employers in Botswana prioritize in an application?
Applications should follow the official university portal guidelines and include a detailed CV and cover letter. Employers prioritize candidates who demonstrate a mix of technical research knowledge and strong administrative leadership.
