Deputy Director Emerging Research

Deputy Director Emerging Research Areas PRETORIA Pretoria - Gauteng

Deputy Director:
Emerging Research Areas

Pretoria

12-month fixed term contract

R717 000pa

Purpose of the post:

To determine and develop cross-cutting research, development and innovation that would support the evolution of the National System of Innovation towards a world class science and technology portfolio.

Description of tasks:

Institutionalisation of Emerging Research Areas:
Nanotechnology Innovation Centres (NICs):

Guide the NICs in the development of annual business plans and ensure that such are in line with (i) Departmental objectives for the year and (ii) the National Nanotechnology Strategy

Facilitate the signing of 3- year contracts (MTEF) and approval of business plans for Nanotechnology Innovation Centres (NICs)

Facilitate the transfer of funds and progress reporting.

Monitor progress on NICs implementation through analysis of performance reports

Coordinate and support the centres on the international collaboration links. (e.g. workshops and the provision of leads)

Facilitate the participation of centres in DSTs programmes e.g. NPEP

Periodically conduct reviews to determine the level of expertise to deliver on the mandates

Photonics:

Lead the process for the implementation of the photonics strategy and conduct ongoing

monitoring and evaluation. The process includes guiding the development of annual business plans by the steering committee and ensuring that such are in line with (i) Departmental objectives for the year and (ii) the National Photonics Strategy

Represent the DST on a steering committee and lead the process on the implementation of the resolutions which are a responsibility of the Department

Responsible development of Nanotechnology:

Participate in the activities for the roll-out of the Public Engagement Programme (NPEP)

Monitor and evaluate the implementation of the NPEP

Facilitate the signing of 3- year contracts and approval of business plans for the implementation of the NPEP. The business plans should be in line with annual Departmental objectives and the

objectives of the NPEP.

Facilitate transfer of funds.

Conduct the analysis of the performance reports received and provide recommendations on how to better areas of less than expected performance.

Lead the process of the establishment of the HSE Research Platform, provide guidance and monitor and evaluate its performance based on the approved business plan.

Represent the DST in the Platforms Advisory Board and guide the process for the development of annual business plans

Do the analysis of the performance report received and provide recommendations on how to better the Platform performance

Identify and implement mechanisms to support the Nanotechnology standards development technical committee (TC) and assist the committee (SABS TC 229) to advance its goals.

Participate in all the activities of the committee and provide a report on its progress, recommending the Departments assistance where necessary

Establish Nanotechnology industry forum, implement the recommendations and monitor its performance.

Lead processes for the periodic survey to identify the level of industry involvement and implement recommendations for improvement

International Collaborations:

Establish new and nurture existing areas of collaboration with other countries in collaboration with ICR

Develop programmes of action for each of countries to collaborate with and ensure implementation

Facilitate the hosting of biennial Nano School:

Successful organisation and hosting of the biennial Nano Schools

Establish an organising committee relevant for the identified theme

Facilitate the logistical and related arrangements of the event (e.g. invitations)

Develop presentations, briefing notes, cabinet memos etc.

Knowledge, Skills and personal attributes:

Understanding of research environment

Knowledge of research and development

Knowledge of National System of Innovation

Understanding stakeholder relations and management

Programme and Project management,

Negotiation skills,

Interpersonal skills,

presentation and business writing skills,

Monitoring and evaluation,

Policy implementation,

communication skills,

report writing and analysis

Team player,

Stakeholder management,

Ability to work independently,

Ability to work under pressure,

Innovative

Minimum tertiary and experience requirements:

Minimum 3 years experience in a science research environment

National Diploma / Bachelors degree in Science.

Honours qualification in Science will be an added advantage.

Closing date for applications: 10 March 2026

Should you not hear from us within 7 days of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful

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