The Institute for Security Studies (ISS) has announced an exciting career opportunity for researchers passionate about shaping Africa’s future through evidence-based policy analysis and strategic forecasting. The organisation is seeking a Researcher to join its African Futures and Innovation (AFI) Programme in Pretoria, South Africa, offering a unique opportunity to contribute to long-term development planning and policy solutions across the continent.

The position is designed for professionals with strong analytical and quantitative research skills who are interested in using advanced forecasting tools and scenario modelling to influence policy decisions and support sustainable development in Africa.

Supporting Africa’s Future Through Data-Driven Research

The African Futures and Innovation Programme is one of the leading initiatives dedicated to exploring Africa’s long-term development prospects. Through the use of sophisticated forecasting methodologies and scenario analysis, the programme helps governments, policymakers, development partners, and stakeholders understand potential future trends and identify pathways toward inclusive growth and prosperity.

Researchers within the programme utilise the International Futures (IFs) modelling platform, developed by the Frederick S. Pardee Institute, alongside various international datasets to analyse emerging trends across Africa.

The role focuses on examining both continental and country-specific development trajectories, enabling policymakers to make informed decisions based on robust evidence and future-oriented analysis.

Key Areas of Research and Analysis

The successful candidate will work across multiple sectors that are critical to Africa’s development agenda. Research outputs will contribute to policy recommendations and scenario planning in areas such as:

Agriculture and food security
Demographic trends
Economic development
Education systems
Energy access and sustainability
Environmental governance
Public health
Governance and institutional development
Peace, security, and conflict prevention

All findings and analyses will contribute to content published through the AFI platform, which serves as a valuable resource for policymakers and development practitioners across the continent.

Working Alongside Leading African Experts

Based in Pretoria and reporting directly to the Head of the African Futures and Innovation Programme, the researcher will collaborate with a team of experienced experts focused on transforming complex data into practical policy solutions.

The position offers an opportunity to engage with high-level stakeholders while contributing to meaningful discussions on Africa’s future development pathways. Through research, technical support, and stakeholder engagement, the successful applicant will help strengthen evidence-based policymaking across Africa.

Main Responsibilities

The researcher will undertake a variety of responsibilities aimed at advancing the objectives of the African Futures and Innovation Programme.

Key duties include:

Updating country, regional, and thematic profiles on the AFI website.
Conducting trend and scenario analysis using the International Futures modelling platform and other data sources.
Developing policy recommendations based on research findings.
Monitoring developments affecting Africa’s future at national and regional levels.
Communicating research findings through reports, policy briefs, media engagements, seminars, and expert forums.
Providing technical assistance to stakeholders and partners.
Building relationships with donors, policymakers, and development partners.
Participating in peer review processes and quality assurance activities.
Monitoring and evaluating programme impact and activities.
Writing blogs and contributing to research publications.
Identifying funding opportunities and assisting with concept notes and proposal development.

The role combines technical research, policy engagement, communication, and stakeholder management, making it ideal for professionals interested in both research and practical policy impact.

Qualifications and Skills Required

ISS is seeking candidates with strong academic and professional credentials.

Applicants should possess:

A Master’s degree in Economics, Statistics, or a related field.
Strong research and analytical skills, preferably with a quantitative research background.
Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
Strong interpersonal and networking abilities.
The ability to work effectively in multicultural and multidisciplinary environments.
Self-motivation and the ability to work independently under pressure.
A demonstrated willingness to learn and adapt.

While not mandatory, additional qualifications and experience may strengthen an application.

Preferred qualifications include:

A PhD in a relevant discipline.
French language proficiency.
Experience conducting policy research within government institutions, think tanks, research organisations, or related professional environments.

Contract Details and Benefits

The researcher position is being offered on a 24-month fixed-term contract.

The appointment includes:

A standard three-month probation period.
Continued employment based on satisfactory performance after probation.
A competitive salary package.

The role provides valuable exposure to international policy research networks and offers an opportunity to contribute directly to policy discussions that shape Africa’s future.

Application Process

Interested candidates are encouraged to submit their applications via email.

Applicants must provide:

A cover letter.
A detailed curriculum vitae (CV).
A list of publications or links to published work.
Three contactable referees.

Applications should be sent to:

pretoriajobs@issafrica.org

ISS notes that only South African citizens or foreign nationals holding valid South African work permits and currently residing in South Africa will be considered for the position.

Important Application Information

Candidates should note that due to the competitive nature of the recruitment process, only shortlisted applicants will be contacted.

According to ISS, applicants who do not receive feedback within two weeks of submitting their application should consider their application unsuccessful.

Opportunity to Influence Africa’s Development Future

The Researcher position within the African Futures and Innovation Programme presents a significant opportunity for professionals interested in forecasting, public policy, and sustainable development. By contributing to long-term scenario modelling and evidence-based policy recommendations, the successful candidate will play a role in helping African governments and institutions navigate complex challenges and seize future opportunities.

As African countries continue to address evolving economic, environmental, technological, and governance challenges, initiatives such as the AFI Programme remain essential in supporting informed decision-making and building a more prosperous future for the continent.

VIEW THE ADVERT HERE

For more opportunities such as these please follow us on Facebook, Instagram, WhatsApp, Twitter, LinkedIn and WPChannel

Disclaimer: Global South Opportunities (GSO) is not the organization 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.