The Institute for Security Studies is a leading African organisation that enhances human security to enable sustainable development and economic prosperity in Africa. It works across the continent, doing authoritative research, providing expert policy advice and delivering practical training and technical assistance.
ISS seeks to appoint a Researcher on prosecutorial reform to be based in Pretoria.
The purpose of the researcher will to be to work with a team of criminal justice experts, and be responsible for developing and implementing projects on the work and functions of South Africa’s National Prosecuting Authority (NPA). Informed and empirically-based solutions to the NPA’s operational challenges will need to be developed. The researcher will also support civil society efforts to promote an independent, accountable and effective prosecution service.
Reports to: Project Manager of the ISS’ NPA project.
Responsibilites:
Initiate, plan and undertake primary and secondary research
Produce and disseminate research findings through internal briefing papers, publications and other media in formats appropriate to the target audiences, including meetings, briefings, seminars and visual media
Cultivate and maintain constructive working relationships with key partners and interlocutors
Convene meetings, closed briefings and other events, and present research findings at relevant forums
Assist the project with administrative and logistical activities, including but not limited to event coordination, budgets, meetings and internal ISS administrative processes
Assist with monitoring and evaluation
Requirements:
Master’s degree in social sciences, criminal justice, law, or related fields
At least five years’ experience in a criminal justice policy, research, government, training or other relevant professional environment
Ability to work with criminal justice data, including identification of data sources, data system management and analysis
Strong networking, interpersonal and communication skills, in particular the ability to work collaboratively with government and civil society
Expertise on the South African criminal justice system, and knowledge about the NPA
Knowledge and experience of monitoring and evaluation
Good written and verbal communication skills supported by a track record of relevant publications, media commentary and public speaking
Excellent English language skills
Ability to work under accurately and quickly under pressure, meet tight deadlines and operate independently
Applicants must have a thorough understanding and proven expertise in using quantitative and qualitative research methods, project management, and assisting a diverse range of organisations and individuals. The ideal candidate will be a highly-motivated, analytical thinker with exceptional research, communication and problem-solving skills, with knowledge of about the NPA.
Applicants must be willing and able to travel domestically and internationally. The length of the contract will be two years, and may be renewed subject to programme requirements, funding and satisfactory performance. A competitive salary is offered.
Applications are open to South African citizens only.Email your application to Rekha Valabh at [email protected].
Applicants must provide a cover letter articulating their interest and suitability for the position, including how best to work with government and civil society to bring about sustainable prosecutorial reform in SA.
Provide a detailed CV, including at least three contactable referees.
Only short-listed candidates will be contacted.
For more about the Institute for Security Studies, refer to www.issafrica.org