Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in Digital Platforms & Markets at Wits University – Apply Now
About the Fellowship
The University of the Witwatersrand (Wits), Johannesburg, invites applications for Postdoctoral Research Fellowships in the field of Digital Platforms and Markets. This opportunity is designed to foster high-quality, interdisciplinary research in the rapidly evolving digital economy. Fellows will explore digital platforms, market structures, regulation, and data governance, particularly in the African context. The program supports early-career scholars in contributing to global debates on technology policy and platform regulation while collaborating with experts across disciplines.
Fellowship Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Fellow in Digital Platforms and Markets
- Institution: University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University)
- Administering Body: Wits University
- Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
- Research Field: Digital Economy, Platform Regulation, Law, Economics, Media Studies
- Type: Full-time, Postdoctoral Fellowship
- Duration: 2 years
- Start Date (Anticipated): Early 2025 (Flexible)
- Working Hours: As per institutional norms
- Funding/Compensation: Stipend funded through internal or external sources (e.g., NRF); details to be finalized with host department
- Required Degree/Diploma: PhD (awarded within the last 5 years)
Research Areas Supported
- Digital platforms & online marketplaces
- Platform regulation & governance
- Digital competition policy
- Data economy & technology policy
- Digital transformation in Africa
- Internet policy and media regulation
Eligibility & Qualifications
Minimum Requirements:
- A PhD in Law, Economics, Media Studies, Communication, Public Policy, or related fields
- PhD awarded within the past 5 years
- Demonstrated research interest in digital platforms and markets
- Open to all nationalities
Preferred Qualifications:
- A strong publication record or potential
- Interdisciplinary research experience
- Background in African digital policy or regulation
- Previous academic teaching or mentoring experience
Not Eligible:
- Candidates who earned their PhD more than 5 years ago (from the date of application)
- Candidates not committed to full-time research during the fellowship period
Fellowship/Job Benefits
- Visa sponsorship for international applicants
- Monthly stipend
- Access to research networks, seminars, and academic mentorship
- Opportunity to co-supervise graduate students
- Support for research-related travel
- Institutional affiliation and office space at Wits
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct independent research on digital platforms, data governance, or online markets
- Publish in peer-reviewed journals or contribute to policy papers
- Collaborate with faculty and research units within Wits
- Participate in seminars, workshops, and public engagement activities
- May support supervision of postgraduate students
- Contribute to building Africa-focused digital policy research at Wits
Application Process
How to Apply:
Email your application to a prospective host/mentor in a relevant department (e.g., Law, Economics, Media Studies) at Wits. The host will assist with your internal or external funding application.
Required Documents:
- Cover letter expressing interest and suitability
- Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Research proposal (2–3 pages)
- Two academic reference letters
- Copy of PhD certificate
- One or two sample publications or writing samples
Important Dates
- Application Opens: Open now
- Deadline: Rolling; applicants are encouraged to apply as soon as possible for 2025 start
- Interview Period: As scheduled by departments
- Final Results Notification: Ongoing, depending on funding cycle
- Start of Fellowship: Early 2025 (Flexible)
Where to Apply
- Institution Website: https://www.wits.ac.za
- Fellowship/Job Posting: https://www.wits.ac.za/news/latest-news/general-news/2024/2024-05/postdoctoral-fellowships-in-digital-platforms–markets.html
- Application Portal: No direct portal; apply through email to relevant Wits faculty
📧 Contact for Queries:
Mr. Alban van Roy
📩 Email: alban.vanroy@wits.ac.za
📞 Phone: +27 (0)11 717 1389
