
Moses Kotane Research Institute X10 Research Assistants 2025
Listing Reference: MKRI/RA/2025/07
Listing Status: Open
Company: Moses Kotane Research Institute (MKRI)
Industry: Research and Development
Job Category: Graduate Opportunities / Research
Location: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Contract Type: 24-Month Fixed-Term Contract
Remuneration: R19,000 per month (stipend)
EE Position: Yes – Employment Equity position
Closing Date: 16 July 2025
Introduction
Moses Kotane Research Institute X10 Research Assistants 2025 The Moses Kotane Research Institute (MKRI), a premier research organization committed to socio-economic transformation through data-driven policy development, is proud to announce ten (10) exciting opportunities for Research Assistants. These positions are part of MKRI’s broader objective of capacitating unemployed graduates with valuable work experience and exposure to real-world research environments.
Based in Durban, these positions are ideal for highly qualified and driven South African graduates who are eager to contribute to critical national and provincial research while developing their professional portfolios. With a monthly stipend of R19,000 and a contract duration of 24 months, this opportunity promises to be both professionally and financially rewarding.
MKRI encourages applications from suitably qualified candidates who meet the criteria and are passionate about contributing to developmental research that shapes South Africa’s future.
Job Description:
As a Research Assistant at MKRI, you will play a pivotal role in the formulation, development, and execution of research projects aligned with the institute’s goals. Working alongside experienced researchers and policymakers, your work will have direct implications on economic planning, development studies, and policy formulation across KwaZulu-Natal and the nation at large.
Key Responsibilities:
- Assist in the design, execution, and analysis of research projects.
- Conduct economic, social, and development-oriented research.
- Support the team in data collection, entry, cleaning, and analysis.
- Contribute to the development of research proposals, reports, and publications.
- Maintain and ensure high-quality standards of data and research methodologies.
- Engage with stakeholders and participate in fieldwork activities.
- Provide technical and analytical support to the core research team.
- Present findings and summaries to internal and external audiences when required.
Minimum Requirements:
To be eligible for the Research Assistant positions, candidates must meet the following criteria:
- A completed doctoral qualification (NQF Level 10) in one of the following fields:
- Economics
- Development Studies
- Maritime Studies
- Public Policy
- Information and Communication Technology (ICT)
- Or closely related disciplines
- A valid driver’s license is a mandatory requirement.
- Proven experience or familiarity with research tools such as:
- IHS Markit Regional Explorer
- Nvivo
- SPSS
Role Responsibility:
As a member of MKRI’s research team, you will be expected to:
- Execute both qualitative and quantitative research methods.
- Analyze complex data sets using advanced analytical tools.
- Stay updated on the latest research trends and academic findings.
- Ensure all research activities adhere to MKRI’s policies and ethical standards.
- Take initiative in problem-solving and contributing innovative ideas to enhance research outcomes.
- Work collaboratively in multidisciplinary teams and independently when needed.
Skills and Attributes:
The ideal candidate will exhibit the following skills and competencies:
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills.
- Demonstrated ability to manage and interpret large datasets.
- High-level proficiency in Microsoft Excel and other analytical software.
- Familiarity with data visualization techniques and report writing.
- Strong attention to detail and organizational skills.
- Ability to work under pressure and meet tight deadlines.
- Experience working with both primary and secondary data sources.
- Capacity to work in field environments for data collection and community engagement.
Company Overview:
The Moses Kotane Research Institute (MKRI) is a non-profit research institution located in KwaZulu-Natal. The institute is committed to conducting applied and policy-oriented research to drive socio-economic development. MKRI operates under values of excellence, integrity, inclusivity, and accountability, making it an ideal environment for young researchers seeking impactful and meaningful work.
The institute’s research focuses include economic development, public policy analysis, social justice, and regional transformation. MKRI serves as a critical knowledge partner to government departments, development agencies, and civil society organizations.
MKRI is an Equal Opportunity Employer and is committed to transformation and the employment of previously disadvantaged groups.
How to Apply:
Interested candidates who meet the above requirements are encouraged to apply before the closing date of 16 July 2025.
Application Submission Options:
- Through the designated e-Recruitment platform on the KwaZulu-Natal Government Jobs portal:
www.kznonline.gov.za/kznjobs - OR
- Email applications to: recruitment@moseskotane.com
Compulsory Application Documents:
- A comprehensive and updated CV
- Certified copies (not older than six months) of:
- Identity Document (ID)
- Valid driver’s license
- Academic qualifications and transcripts
Applications without all required documents or submitted after the deadline will not be considered.
For further enquiries, please contact Advocate Mapipa via email at hradmin@moseskotane.com.
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Additional Notes:
- Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not receive a response within 6 weeks of the closing date, consider your application unsuccessful.
- Applicants are encouraged to visit designated online application support centres if they need assistance with submission.
- The institute reserves the right not to make an appointment.
Conclusion
The opportunity to work with the Moses Kotane Research Institute as a Research Assistant offers more than just employment—it is a gateway to professional growth, policy impact, and contribution to the transformation of South African society. If you are a qualified, passionate graduate ready to make a difference, apply today and become part of a legacy of evidence-based development and innovation.