The Centre for Human Rights at the University of Pretoria is inviting applications for a full-time Post-Doctoral Researcher to join a two-year research initiative focused on strengthening gender-inclusive climate change governance across Africa. This opportunity is designed for an early-career scholar with strong academic grounding and a demonstrated commitment to gender equality, climate justice, and socio-legal research.
The successful candidate will contribute to a multi-country project aimed at identifying and addressing gender disparities within climate governance systems. As climate crises intensify, women and marginalized groups continue to experience disproportionate impacts due to unequal access to resources, weak policy safeguards, and exclusion from decision-making spaces. This research program seeks to bridge these gaps by producing evidence-based insights and promoting governance approaches that prioritize inclusivity, resilience, and human rights.
Key Responsibilities
The Post-Doctoral Researcher will work closely with an interdisciplinary research team, engaging in both conceptual and applied research. Core responsibilities include:
- Conducting advanced legal and policy analyses on gender dimensions of climate governance at national, regional, and continental levels.
- Developing high-quality academic publications, policy briefs, and research reports that inform decision-makers and contribute to scholarly discourse.
- Supporting field research, including stakeholder consultations, community engagement, and data collection across participating countries.
- Contributing to knowledge-sharing activities, such as workshops, conferences, and public dialogues, to strengthen advocacy for gender-responsive climate action.
- Collaborating with partner institutions, policymakers, and civil society groups working on climate justice, environmental governance, and women’s rights.
- Assisting in the overall coordination and management of project deliverables to ensure timely, impactful outcomes.
This position demands both strong independent research capabilities and the ability to work effectively within a diverse, collaborative team.
Required Qualifications
Applicants must hold a doctoral degree in a relevant discipline, such as law, sociology, gender studies, climate policy, environmental governance, or related fields. The PhD must have been completed within the past five years to ensure alignment with early-career research fellowship standards.
Ideal candidates will demonstrate:
- Strong research and writing skills, evidenced through publications, dissertations, or policy work.
- A clear understanding of gender frameworks, climate governance instruments, and human rights principles.
- Experience conducting qualitative or mixed-method research, with the ability to translate findings into practical policy recommendations.
- Strong organizational skills and the capacity to manage multiple tasks within specified timelines.
- A commitment to ethical research practices, community engagement, and inclusive knowledge production.
Familiarity with African legal systems, climate adaptation strategies, or gender mainstreaming within public institutions will be considered an added advantage.
Duration and Working Conditions
The appointment is for a 24-month period, during which the researcher is expected to be based at the Centre for Human Rights and fully available for project-related activities. The role offers a dynamic and supportive academic environment, providing opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and professional growth.
The researcher will be expected to contribute to both academic excellence and policy impact, aligning with the Centre’s mission to promote human rights, social justice, and inclusive development across the continent.
Application Requirements
Applicants typically must submit a detailed curriculum vitae, a letter of motivation outlining relevant expertise, a writing sample, and contact details of referees. Only candidates who demonstrate strong alignment with the project’s objectives and the Centre’s values will be considered for shortlisting.
Conclusion
This post-doctoral fellowship provides a meaningful opportunity to contribute to an emerging body of work at the intersection of climate change, gender equality, and governance. Early-career scholars with a passion for transforming policy landscapes and advancing social justice are strongly encouraged to apply. Through rigorous research and collaborative engagement, the selected candidate will play a crucial role in shaping more equitable climate governance systems that respond to the needs and rights of all populations.
Apply here: chr@up.ac.za.
