SOuthern aFrica research cApacity netwoRk (SOFAR) is a research capacity building programme at The Health Research Unit Zimbabwe (THRU Zim) in the Biomedical Research and Training Institute (BRTI) in Zimbabwe, Zambart in Zambia, and Instituto Nacional de Saúde in Mozambique. This EDCTP-funded programme will provide postdoctoral training in global health to a total of 15 MSc, PhD and postdoc fellows across the three countries, including five in Zimbabwe. The programme is a partnership with two higher education institutions in Europe (Ludwig-Maximillians Universität Munich (LMU) and London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine (LSHTM). The mix of partners will provide a vibrant and thriving research environment within which to embed MSc, PhD and postdoctoral fellows.

We are now recruiting a postdoctoral fellow in Zimbabwe. The postdoc fellow will be employed by THRU Zim for 24 months. The aim of this postdoc is to support an excellent postdoctoral researcher to advance their career, publish papers, possibly conduct a small research project, apply for fellowships/ grants to move towards research independence, and contribute to building a positive and inclusive research culture within THRU Zim.

Job Summary

Employer: SOuthern aFrica research cApacity netwoRk (SOFAR)
Job Type: Full-time
Location: Harare, Zimbabwe
Category: Research
Closing Date: 2026-10-23

Key Responsibilities

Explain how you contributed to the generation of research ideas, implementation of research, and generation of knowledge over your career to date.
Detail any key research outputs and impact.
Explain how you have contributed to the wider research community.
These could include examples of public engagement, policy and practice impact, and knowledge exchange.
It can also include teaching, supervision and mentorship of students and colleagues.
Mention any support you have provided that has advanced junior or senior colleagues.
Enter a complete list of your research publications to-date (full citations including title and all authors).
List all research funding that you have been awarded.
Indicate the date that you would start the two-year postdoc fellowship.
Provide a summary of your plans for the two-year postdoc (Max 200 words).
Provide a summary of your plans for the 5-10 years following the two-year postdoc (Max 200 words).
List your two mentors and up to six collaborators who will support a particular aspect of your research and/ or training.
Outline each of their roles in supporting your research and training (Max 50 words per mentor/ collaborator).
Write a proposal for the research that you plan to undertake during the two-year postdoc (Max 500 words).
Outline training that you will do during the two-year postdoc (Max 300 words).
Outline what the key outputs will be of this two-year postdoc (Max 300 words).
Outline what grant/ fellowships you will apply for during the two-year postdoc.
Outline the proposal that you plan to submit for a grant/ fellowship (Max 500 words).
Detail how you will contribute to a positive and inclusive research culture within THRU Zim (Max 300 words).
Detail your budget for how you will spend the provided funds and write a budget justification for any costs which may require this.

Requirements

Applicants must be African nationals, eligible to work in Zimbabwe, and have received a PhD or submitted their thesis by the time of application.
We expect that successful applicants will have a track-record of academic excellence, with a strong upward career trajectory, and clear potential to become research leaders.

How to Apply

Apply by email: rchingono66@gmail.com

Frequently Asked Questions

What academic qualifications are typically required for a postdoc fellowship in Zimbabwe?

Most postdoc positions require a completed PhD in a relevant field, often with publications in peer-reviewed journals. Some Zimbabwean institutions may accept candidates in the final stages of their doctorate, but this varies by employer. International qualifications are generally accepted if verified by the Zimbabwe Council for Higher Education.

What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a postdoc researcher?

Daily tasks include designing and conducting research, analyzing data, writing grant proposals and academic papers, and mentoring graduate students. Postdocs also present findings at conferences and collaborate with local and international partners. Administrative duties like lab management and ethics compliance are common in Zimbabwean universities.

How does the work culture for researchers differ in Zimbabwe compared to international institutions?

Zimbabwean academic culture emphasizes community engagement and applied research addressing local challenges like agriculture and health. Hierarchical respect for senior researchers is strong, and flexibility is needed due to occasional resource constraints. Building personal relationships and networking within small academic circles is essential for career advancement.

What benefits are typically included in postdoc contracts in Zimbabwe?

Benefits vary significantly by employer but may include medical aid, pension contributions, and annual leave as mandated by Zimbabwean labor law. Research-focused institutions sometimes offer conference travel allowances and access to institutional housing. Candidates should negotiate these terms explicitly, as postdoc packages are less standardized than permanent academic roles.

What career progression paths exist after completing a postdoc in Zimbabwe?

Successful postdocs typically transition to lectureships or research positions at universities like the University of Zimbabwe or Midlands State University. Some move into policy roles with government ministries or international NGOs based in Harare. Others secure fellowships abroad or establish independent research programs with external funding.

What do Zimbabwean research employers look for in postdoc applications?

Employers prioritize demonstrated research output, especially publications and successful grant applications. Alignment with national development priorities and existing institutional research clusters strengthens candidacy. Strong reference letters from recognized academics and evidence of collaborative work are highly valued in the Zimbabwean context.