The SARChI Chair in Interdisciplinary Science in Land and Natural Resource Use for Sustainable Livelihoods in the Department of Environmental Science at Rhodes University, Grahamstown (South Africa) is currently held by Professor Charlie Shackleton. The broad focus of the Chair’s is interdisciplinary research into understandings of natural resources in rural and urban livelihoods for poverty alleviation. Applications are currently open for a post-doctoral position for social or economic scientists to work primarily on analysis of existing livelihoods panel data collected through a joint project between the departments of Environmental Science at Rhodes University and the School of Resource Economics and Rural Sociology at the University Alberta (Canada). The call is for applicants who can demonstrate their prior work and expertise in:

  • Quantitative analysis and understanding of rural livelihoods
  • Sound data and statistical analysis techniques of panel data on rural livelihoods

The position is for one year initially, potentially renewable up to a maximum of three years based on satisfactory performance. The fellowship is worth R200,000 (tax free) per annum. This is a full-time-time position and candidates would be required to be based in Grahamstown, unless on project based, work-related field trips. The starting date would be early 2018. Mentorship will be offered by Prof Charlie Shackleton (Rhodes) and Prof Marty Luckert at the University of Alberta.

Applicants must have (i) completed a PhD or D.Phil degree within the last five years in an appropriate discipline and topic, (ii) at least two papers published, accepted or submitted in peer-reviewed journals of good standing, (iii) proven competence in econometric data analysis, (iv) interest in working in interdisciplinary teams, (v) a valid driver’s license and (vi) fluency in written and verbal English.

To apply, please send (i) a full CV, (ii) name and contact details of three recent referees, (iii) an academic transcript and (iv) a letter of motivation around your interest in the position. Please send the applications to the Chair Administrator, Ms Nqabisa Booi (n.booi@ru.ac.za). Information on the department is available at: www.ru.ac.za/static/departments/environsci/. Applications should reach Ms Booi by 29 September 2017.