Wits University Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026

About the Fellowship

Wits University invites applications for the Research Office Postdoctoral Fellowship 2026. This prestigious 24-month postdoctoral programme provides early-career researchers with the opportunity to conduct independent, high-quality research within one of Africa’s leading research institutions. Open to all disciplines, the fellowship supports innovative and impactful scholarship while strengthening collaboration across a dynamic academic community. Based in Johannesburg, South Africa, fellows contribute to research excellence, knowledge exchange, and interdisciplinary dialogue. The programme aligns with Wits University’s strategic mission to develop emerging scholars, expand global research partnerships, and enhance institutional research capacity. Fellows gain international visibility, professional growth, and valuable opportunities to build strong academic networks through active participation in campus intellectual life.

Fellowship Details

Position Title: Research Office Postdoctoral Fellow
Host Institution: University of the Witwatersrand (Wits University)
Administering Body / Funding Agency: University Research Council
Location: Johannesburg, South Africa
Research Field(s): All disciplines
Fellowship Type: Postdoctoral Fellowship
Level: Early-career
Fellowship Duration: 24 months
Expected Start Date: 2026 (to be agreed with host)
Working Hours: As per institutional norms
Funding/Compensation: R320,000 per annum stipend; R20,000 per annum cost-of-living top-up; R10,000 per annum research allowance (on application)
Required Degree/Diploma: PhD obtained within the last five years

Supported Research Fields / Areas

Natural Sciences
Engineering and Technology
Health Sciences and Medical Research
Social Sciences
Humanities and Arts
Commerce, Law and Management
Education Research
Environmental and Sustainability Studies
Data Science and Digital Innovation
Interdisciplinary and Cross-Disciplinary Research

Eligibility & Qualifications

Minimum Requirements:

PhD from a SAQA-accredited institution
PhD obtained within the past five years
Ability to reside in Johannesburg for the full fellowship period
Active participation in Wits academic and campus activities

Preferred Qualifications:

Strong research publication record
Demonstrated research independence
Experience in collaborative or interdisciplinary projects

Not Eligible:

Applicants without a completed PhD
PhD awarded more than five years ago
Candidates unable to relocate to Johannesburg

Fellowship / Job Benefits

Monthly stipend or salary: Competitive funded stipend for 24 months
Health insurance or accident coverage: As per institutional provisions
Travel allowance: Research allowance may support academic travel
Visa sponsorship & relocation support: Subject to university regulations
Dependent support: Not specified
Research allowance / Professional development support: Annual research funding available on application
Office/lab space and institutional resources: Full access to Wits’ research infrastructure

Key Responsibilities

Conduct and publish original high-quality research
Collaborate closely with the host academic and research teams
Participate in seminars, workshops, and scholarly activities
Contribute to the academic life and research culture of Wits University
Comply with institutional research ethics and reporting requirements

Application Process

How to Apply:

Submit your application via the official online form: Click here
Work with a Wits host academic to develop a research proposal
Ensure all documents are complete before submission

Application Portal:

Required Documents:

Completed application form
Curriculum Vitae (CV)
Detailed research proposal including background, rationale, aims, methodology, and Gantt chart
Supporting academic documents or publications if required