Job Description

Eastern Cape

, Alice

The University of Fort Hare is a vibrant, equitable and sustainable African university, committed to teaching and research excellence at the service of its students, scholars and the wider community.



The University of Fort Hare (UFH) invites applications from suitably qualified and experienced candidates for the position of Officer: Research Ethics. The main purpose of the position is to provide overarching administrative support to UFH Research Ethics Committees (RECs) and Biosafety Committee (BSC). The position coordinates logistical arrangements for REC and BSC meetings, ensures compliance with UFH policies and relevant regulatory guidelines and facilitates the submission of mandatory reports. Additional responsibilities include supporting online application systems, facilitating training for committee members and researchers, and compiling documentation for audit purposes.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

Honours degree (NQF Level 8) in a relevant field At least 2 years experience in the process of research ethics clearance of research projects in a Higher Education environment. At least 2 years administrative experience, preferably in a Higher Education environment

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:

Training in Research Ethics Experience in facilitating Research Ethics training Training and experience in managing meetings, including developing meeting agenda and writing minutes Experience in preparing information and documentation for audits Knowledge of and experience in running online research ethics application system Familiarity with the national research ethics guidelines of South Africa

DUTIES & RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Providing overarching administrative support to UFH Research Ethics and Biosafety Committees, staff and students. Coordinating logistical arrangements of REC and BSC meetings, including agenda, minutes and follow up actions. Coordinating ethics and biosafety clearance applications for research projects Validating documents and research proposals in accordance with requirements for ethics or biosafety clearance. Preparing reports for submission to Senate Research Ethics Oversight Committee (SREOC), the National Health Research Ethics Committee (NHREC) and other regulatory bodies. Organizing mandatory training of UFH Research Ethics and Biosafety committee members. Organizing training on research ethics and integrity for students and researchers. Ensuring compliance with NHREC guidelines in terms of membership of committees. Keeping standard operating procedures updated in accordance with relevant policies, guidelines and NHREC requirements. Providing support for the online research ethics application system Compiling information and documentation for audit purposes. Promoting a culture of ethical awareness and integrity within the research environment at UFH.

COMPETENCIES:

Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Excel, PowerPoint, Word) Competency in use of online systems High level of professional and ethical conduct. Good interpersonal skills and communication skills Strong attention to detail Time management and problem-solving capabilities

Closing Date: 26 October 2025

Interested applicants who meet the criteria are invited to:



Visit the Website ufh.ac.za/jobs for a more comprehensive advert and to apply online.

Applications must be accompanied by:
a) A recent and comprehensive curriculum vitae

b) A Covering Letter stating how applicants satisfy the requirements of the advertised position/s

c) A completed University of Fort Hare Application Form

d) Copies of the applicant's qualifications. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by an evaluation certificate from SAQA.


No faxed, emailed or walk-ins (hard copies) will be accepted.

Applicants are urged to ensure that their applications reach the Human Resources Department before the closing date. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

Failure to comply with the above directions will result in the application/s being disqualified.

CONTACT DETAILS

Queries can be directed to Ms. S Sigodi on ssigodi@ufh.ac.za and 043 704 7240. Correspondence will be conducted with short-listed candidates only.



The University reserves the right NOT to make an appointment. The University of Fort Hare is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Pursuant to complying with the Employment Equity Act No.55 of 1998 as amended, when appointing, preference will be given to applicants from designated groups whose appointments will contribute towards achievement of equitable demographic representation of our workforce profile."