18 Research And Development jobs in Pretoria

Job Advert Summary

RESEARCH DEVELOPMENT AND SCIENCE INNOVATION (RDSI) DIVISION

Join the HSRC and lead transformative research at the frontier of science, technology, and innovation.

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) undertakes policy-oriented research through its various units, institutes, and centres based in Pretoria, Cape Town, and Pietermaritzburg. Our mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act of 2008.

The RDSI division focuses on measuring and understanding science, technology, and innovation (STI) and social dynamics. It combines expertise across the organization and includes a centre on Science in Society (SIS) and the Centre for Science, Technology, and Innovation Indicators (CeSTII).

We are seeking a dynamic individual to lead, plan, organize, and coordinate the activities of the RDSI division. The successful candidate will lead a team in building a reputation for globally recognized and locally relevant research excellence and policy engagement, focusing on maximizing societal benefits of STI. Reporting directly to the CEO, this position is based in Pretoria and oversees activities across all HSRC locations.

Divisional Executive: RDSI

Ref. No: DE RDSI: 005 / 2025

Contract Duration: 5 years, Pretoria-based

The successful candidate will actively engage in:

1. Strategic planning and leadership
2. Delivering on the HSRC’s strategic and annual performance targets
3. Managing the division’s budget
4. Resource mobilization and partnership development
5. People management within the division
6. Stakeholder and customer relationship management
7. Risk and compliance management

• Provide strategic leadership to develop a transformative research agenda
• Measure national R&D activity and innovation in various sectors
• Establish evidence for STI policies promoting inclusive and sustainable development
• Enhance STI measurement capabilities in Africa and the Global South
• Foster collaboration through data and knowledge sharing globally
• Contribute to analysis of STI indicators related to economic growth and development
• Promote science engagement to bridge science/policy gaps and foster public understanding
• Address digital divide and promote inclusion
• Lead grant opportunities aligned with public-oriented research goals

• Develop and implement divisional strategies aligned with HSRC’s objectives
• Establish and monitor key performance indicators
• Oversee research policies and practices
• Represent the division internally and externally
• Lead budget planning and financial management
• Ensure team capacity building and motivation

Applicants must be South African citizens.

Apply online or send inquiries to Marizane Rousseau at (email address). More information available on our website (website URL).

Closing date: 30 May 2025. Early applications are encouraged. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. The HSRC reserves the right not to fill the position. No recruitment agency applications accepted.

• PhD in Social Sciences or related field (NQF 10)
• 15+ years senior research leadership experience with impactful outcomes
• 10+ years in strategic management within research institutions
• Experience in STI policy
• Strong publication record, including international authorship
• Extensive experience in fundraising and large research projects
• Fluency in English
• Experience in regulatory environments

• Networking skills with policymakers
• Leadership in large-scale research with demonstrable impact
• Experience in research impact assessment
• High-impact publication record
• Integrity, drive, and ability to work under pressure
• Leadership qualities including humility and strategic advisory skills
• Business acumen and computer literacy

Diploma, ICT, Access Control, Creative Production, Instrument Maintenance, Courier Delivery

Employment Type: Contract

Experience: 15+ years

Vacancies: 1

Join the HSRC and lead transformative research at the forefront of science, technology, and innovation.

Science, technology, and innovation (STI) are increasingly vital drivers of social and economic change. The Research Development and Science Innovation (RDSI) division is dedicated to measuring and understanding STI and social dynamics. It brings together expertise from across the organization to address this significant policy-related research area. The division includes a Science in Society (SIS) centre and the DSTI-mandated Centre for Science, Technology and Innovation Indicators (CeSTII) .

The HSRC seeks a dynamic individual to lead, plan, organize, and coordinate the activities of the RDSI division. The successful candidate will lead a team to establish a reputation for globally recognized and locally relevant research excellence and policy engagement, focusing on maximizing the societal benefits of science, technology, and innovation. Reporting directly to the CEO, this role is based in Pretoria and oversees activities across three HSRC locations.

• Division: Research Development and Science Innovation
• Contract: 5-year contract
• Location: Pretoria

• Strategic planning and leadership
• Delivering the HSRC’s Strategic Plan and Annual Performance Targets
• Financial management of the division
• Resource mobilization and partnership development
• People management
• Stakeholder and client relationship management
• Risk management and compliance

Reference: Pta00041-VLR-1

We are looking for a R&D Technologist for a company within the FMCG industry that is based in Centurion.

Requirements:

1. Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Processing / Manufacturing or related field.
2. Minimum 3 years’ work experience in food development, food processes, food ingredient functionality and ingredient interactions.
3. Minimum 3 years’ laboratory / bench top experience in a research food laboratory or product development environment.
4. Minimum 3 years’ experience in use of laboratory analytical instrumentation, Lab Filtration system and scale equipment.
5. Demonstrated project management skills and experience.
6. MS Office and Excel – knowledge beyond Lookup Functions, Pivots, Charting and Importing & Exporting data.
7. An analytical mind with strong math skills.
8. Excellent organizational and planning skills.
9. Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities – Afrikaans and English.
10. Attention to detail, reliable and accurate.
11. High level of technical aptitude – an ability to learn new technical systems and tools quickly.
12. Ability to work under pressure and a willingness to work to tight deadlines while managing multiple projects.
13. Ability to work alone and as part of a team.
14. Valid driver’s license and own vehicle.

Responsibilities (Not limited to):

1. Developing products from stipulated brief.
2. Calculate theoretical and final costing of the new product.
3. Sourcing of new raw materials.
4. Resubmission of samples with feedback applied.
5. Execute shelf life and stability testing of new products.

1. Evaluating raw material submissions from suppliers.
2. Research and application of new ingredients or ideas.
3. Able to proactively identify needs and develop both internal and external resources to meet them.
4. Leverage competitive set and competitor technology differences to provide competitive advantage and uniqueness.
5. Able to analyse competitive products to ascertain processes and formulations.
6. Remains well informed of state of the business in terms of net sales and market share as well as new product launches.

1. Oversee the blending and packing of the first run of a new product.
2. Assist with the testing and approval of factory blends vs lab control samples.
3. Assist with the investigation and issue corrective actions required to fix any failed batches.
4. Investigate formulation changes that can address process issues on the filling line.

1. Compile nutritional reports of the developed product.
2. Receiving and filing of documentation on all new raw materials.
3. Creation and amendments of Batch Cards.
4. Compiling bulk BOMs.
5. Review and maintain label and packaging specification updates.
6. Ensure TRELLO boards are always updated and accurate.
7. Ensure all project spreadsheets are always updated and accurate.
8. Manage and maintain the R&D folder online.
9. Create mixing instructions and batch cards for drinks to be sent to 3rd Party.
10. Create and review company product specification sheets with the QC Team.

1. Research for suppliers or similar ingredients at lower cost.
2. Drive for continuous margin enhancement of new product portfolio.
3. Ensures communication between development team and supply chain to facilitate cost effective products.

1. Review client labels for conformance to R146 Regulations relating to the labelling and advertising of foodstuffs.

1. Effective distribution of projects between team members.
2. Ensuring that projects are done in time.
3. Manage conflicts between timelines of different projects.

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not heard from us in 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Reference: Pta00041-VLR-1

We are looking for a R&D Technologist for a company within the FMCG industry that is based in Centurion.

Requirements:

1. Degree in Food Science, Food Technology, Food Processing / Manufacturing or related field.
2. Minimum 3 years’ work experience in food development, food processes, food ingredient functionality and ingredient interactions.
3. Minimum 3 years’ laboratory / bench top experience in a research food laboratory or product development environment.
4. Minimum 3 years’ experience in use of laboratory analytical instrumentation, Lab Filtration system and scale equipment.
5. Demonstrated project management skills and experience.
6. MS Office and Excel – knowledge beyond Lookup Functions, Pivots, Charting and Importing & Exporting data.
7. An analytical mind with strong math skills.
8. Excellent organizational and planning skills.
9. Outstanding communication and interpersonal abilities – Afrikaans and English.
10. Attention to detail, reliable and accurate.
11. High level of technical aptitude – an ability to learn new technical systems and tools quickly.
12. Ability to work under pressure and a willingness to work to tight deadlines while managing multiple projects.
13. Ability to work alone and as part of a team.
14. Valid driver’s license and own vehicle.

1. Developing products from stipulated brief.
2. Calculate theoretical and final costing of the new product.
3. Sourcing of new raw materials.
4. Resubmission of samples with feedback applied.
5. Execute shelf life and stability testing of new products.

1. Evaluating raw material submissions from suppliers.
2. Research and application of new ingredients or ideas.
3. Able to proactively identify needs and develop both internal and external resources to meet them.
4. Leverage competitive set and competitor technology differences to provide competitive advantage and uniqueness.
5. Able to analyse competitive products to ascertain processes and formulations.
6. Remains well informed of state of the business in terms of net sales and market share as well as new product launches.

1. Oversee the blending and packing of the first run of a new product.
2. Assist with the testing and approval of factory blends vs lab control samples.
3. Assist with the investigation and issue corrective actions required to fix any failed batches.
4. Investigate formulation changes that can address process issues on the filling line.

1. Compile nutritional reports of the developed product.
2. Receiving and filing of documentation on all new raw materials.
3. Creation and amendments of Batch Cards.
4. Compiling bulk BOMs.
5. Review and maintain label and packaging specification updates.
6. Ensure TRELLO boards are always updated and accurate.
7. Ensure all project spreadsheets are always updated and accurate.
8. Manage and maintain the R&D folder online.
9. Create mixing instructions and batch cards for drinks to be sent to 3rd Party.
10. Create and review company product specification sheets with the QC Team.

1. Research for suppliers or similar ingredients at lower cost.
2. Drive for continuous margin enhancement of new product portfolio.
3. Ensures communication between development team and supply chain to facilitate cost effective products.

1. Review client labels for conformance to R146 Regulations relating to the labelling and advertising of foodstuffs.

1. Effective distribution of projects between team members.
2. Ensuring that projects are done in time.
3. Manage conflicts between timelines of different projects.

An established company within the aggregate industry has a new job opportunity available for an experienced Research and Development Officer.

The Research and Development Officer will be responsible for capturing information, picking up on trend lines and future prospects.

• Conducting research guided by the head of the Research Development Department.
• Capturing information such as: Lime users in SA to Silica use in the Asian Market.
• Reporting and research communicated as per specific market research that will be conducted.

• A Bachelor’s Degree in Data / Research , or an equivalent qualification.
• 3-5 years relevant market research experience required.
• A valid driver’s license and own transportation.
• Knowledge of sand, stone, and silica – understand where the applications of these materials are used.
• Knowledge of software including One Drive, Google, Leads to Business, and CRM systems.

Annual Cost To Company

If you meet all the requirements specified above and are interested in furthering the process, kindly send your detailed CV to Patricia Jacobs at

Position overview :

Develops and implements new sports nutrition products for the company's UK Ltd in UK and international markets, aligning with the innovation programme to continually enhance the company's world-class product portfolio.

Requirements :

• Food or nutrition-related degree
• NPD / product development background
• Minimum 4 years experience in the sports nutrition industry
• Fluent in English, well-spoken

Skills :

• Project management
• Strong communication skills, both face-to-face and via technology
• Strong analytical, organizational, and time management skills
• Ability to work autonomously while being a strong team player

Attitude :

• Self-starter, disciplined, results/target-oriented, team player

Responsibilities :

• Support the fast-paced innovation agenda, implementing innovations across distribution channels and key accounts
• Drive development efforts in innovation and new technologies
• Lead and ensure on-time delivery of product development projects from concept to post-launch
• Coordinate with third-party suppliers and update stakeholders on UK projects
• Complete technical paperwork for new products and extensions
• Develop and maintain efficient product specifications
• Present project updates to key stakeholders
• Ensure product artwork information is consistent and compliant with legislation
• Act as the first contact with vendors, factories, and development partners to meet timelines
• Keep the business informed about latest innovative products and technologies in sports nutrition
• Support sales colleagues with legislative and registration documentation
• Assist colleagues with technical queries and customer inquiries, providing technical support
• Collaborate with the compliance team to meet regulatory and company requirements
• Advise on updates in food law
• Identify cost-saving opportunities without compromising quality
• Research latest trends and innovations in products and raw materials
• Manage legal requirements on labels and formulations across territories
• Continuously seek process efficiencies
• Serve as the technical expert for product queries and quality disputes
• Design and execute sensory testing and quality assurance
• Manage product files on Microsoft SharePoint, ensuring accuracy and completeness
• Assist with import/export documentation related to meursing codes / POAO
• Deputise for the line manager as needed
• Perform other duties as required by the business

Please note only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you have not heard from us in 2 weeks, please consider your application unsuccessful.

• Must have a B. Sc. Degree in Agriculture or Natural Sciences; A post-graduate qualification would be advantageous
• Must have a CropLife Basic Crop Protection Certificate
• SACNASP accreditation would be beneficial
• Minimum 5 years experience in agrochemical product development and/or regulatory department
• Working knowledge of GHS labelling requirements is essential
• Comprehensive understanding of product registration requirements and processes
• Above average knowledge of crops, crop protection (biological and chemical), crop nutrition as well as the general crop protection environment
• Technical project management experience is advantageous
• Understanding of statistical methods and management of trial data on the ARM platform
• Detail orientated, analytical with a high level of accuracy in planning projects and managing trial data
• Self-motivated and driven to find solutions in executing development projects in a practical manner within set budget and timelines
• Creativity and flexibility are required in addressing challenges that arise during project execution and in contributing to data dossiers
• Ability to prioritize, re-prioritize and manage all development-related activities within set timelines
• Ability to work independently, under intense pressure at times, but maintain a high level of accuracy and meticulous preciseness especially with written tasks

• Planning, implementing, and managing the R&D trial program for designated crops and products of the portfolio in line with product strategies and project scopes, as agreed with the relevant local and global Product Managers.
• Coordinating, managing, and liaising with CROs for the timely execution of projects in accordance with timelines and budgets, ensuring accuracy of implementation and data generation, as well as concurrent report generation and reporting.
• Analyzing trial results (via ARM) and drafting summaries to demonstrate trial objectives and propose amendments for further development work, ensuring that project objectives are achieved. On completing projects, contributing to highly accurate, comprehensive yet concise registration dossiers to demonstrate that efficacy, selectivity, and residue data comply with regulations and meet claims in support of intended commercial use.
• Participating in local, regional, and global portfolio meetings by providing accurate updates on technical trial results as well as sharing technical expertise to ensure that product development remains relevant to market needs while ensuring product positioning is optimal within the portfolio and global trends.
• Maintaining accurate updates to project management, budget tracking, and regulatory tracking platforms to maintain data integrity and transparency.
• Liaising with and participating in industry body organisation committees, forums, and/or meetings to gain information and contacts on industry trends and knowledge transfer that may have strategic importance to the role and company.
• Regularly visiting trial sites to ensure trial progress is going according to plan and set timelines.
• Being accountable for managing people, setting direction, and deploying resources; responsible for performance evaluations, pay reviews, and hire/fire decisions; accountable for business functional or operational areas, processes, or programs.

• Food or nutrition related degree
• NPD/product development background
• Minimum 4 years experience working within the sports nutrition industry
• Well spoken and fluent in English

• Project management
• Strong communication skills both face to face and via technology
• Strong analytical, organisation and time management skills
• Must be able to work autonomously but be a strong team player

• Self-starter, very disciplined and results/target orientated, team player

• Support the fast-paced Innovation agenda with the implementation of innovation for all distribution channels and key accounts.
• Drive development efforts in innovation and new technologies.
• Lead and drive the on-time delivery of product development projects from concept to post-launch to agreed targets.
• Drive the day-to-day operation of UK projects liaising with third party suppliers and updating key stake holders.
• Completion of technical paperwork for new products and extensions.
• Develop, evolve and maintain efficient product specifications.
• Present project updates to key stakeholders
• Scrutinise product artwork information, ensuring consistency and compliance with relevant legislation.
• Be first contact with vendors, factory, and development partners to ensure timelines are adhered to.
• Keep the business informed with the latest innovative products and technologies relevant to the sports nutrition industry.
• Primary point of contact for all sales colleagues to support with legislative and registration documentation.
• Assist with queries from colleagues, providing technical information and support.
• Assist with customer enquiries and complaints, providing technical information between the business and consumer.
• Work closely with the compliance team to ensure regulatory and company requirements are met.
• Advise, execute and inform colleagues of updates in food law.
• Identify cost saving opportunities without diminishing product quality.
• Monitor and research latest trends and innovations in product and raw materials.
• Key point of contact for all legal requirements on labels and formulations for varying territories.
• Challenge the status quo, continuing to look for efficiencies in current processes.
• Be the expert for all technical product queries, raising issues with current products, responding to customer questions and investigating product quality disputes.
• Design and execute sensory testing and quality assurance.
• Manage the product file database on Microsoft SharePoint, ensuring artwork, renders, product information forms, and specifications are kept up to date.
• Assisting the compliance manager with meursing codes/POAO information and the capturing of this information for import/export reasons
• Deputise for the line manager as required.
• Provide any other duties and undertake any other work, as required by the business