POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIP – Southern Africa Research Capacity Network (SOFAR)

Candidates typically need a completed PhD in a relevant field such as public health, social sciences, or development studies within the last five years. Research experience in Southern African contexts and publications in peer-reviewed journals strengthen applications.

Fellows design and implement research projects, collect and analyze data, write manuscripts for publication, and contribute to policy briefs. They also mentor junior researchers and participate in network capacity-building activities across Southern Africa.

Zimbabwean research settings often emphasize collaborative relationships and community-engaged research due to resource constraints. Hierarchical respect for senior researchers is common, and flexibility is needed to navigate institutional processes that may move slower than in Western universities.

Fellows commonly transition to lectureships at University of Zimbabwe or other regional universities, or join NGOs and government ministries as senior researchers. The network connections often lead to regional consulting roles and international grant-funded project leadership.

Benefits vary by employer but usually include medical aid through local providers like CIMAS or PSMAS, modest pension contributions, and annual leave of 21-30 days. Some fellowships provide research allowances and conference travel support rather than comprehensive packages.

Employers prioritize demonstrated research productivity, alignment with national development priorities like health systems or climate adaptation, and evidence of grant writing experience. Strong letters of recommendation from supervisors familiar with Southern African research challenges are highly valued.