312 Research Projects jobs in South Africa

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SUMMARY:

A global leader in cross-border IT Hardware and Medical equipment logistics, specialising in end-to-end trade compliance, import/export services, and international delivery is looking for

Recruiter:

RareCruit

Job Ref:

CPT /KJ

Date posted:

Monday, June 30, 2025

Location:

Johannesburg, South Africa

SUMMARY:

A global leader in cross-border IT Hardware and Medical equipment logistics, specialising in end-to-end trade compliance, import/export services, and international delivery is looking for Research & Development Associate to join their team.

Operating in over 200 countries and territories, they help organisations overcome regulatory and logistical barriers to move high-value technology and medical assets seamlessly and securely.

With a strong focus on customs compliance, tax management, and risk mitigation, they simplify complex international shipments so our clients can focus on scaling their operations globally.

POSITION INFO:

Qualifications and Experience:

• Excellent High School and University results.
• Professional qualification: a business - related qualification can be advantageous.
  
  

• Reading with comprehension.
• Written communication.
• Verbal communication.
• Confident and persuasive in communications with suppliers.
• Ability to proactively identify problems and think of creative solutions.
• Excellent business acumen.
• Attention to detail with the ability to prioritise tasks effectively.
• Ability to adapt within the ever-changing business environment.
• Well organised to be able to run multiple projects concurrently.
• Excellent verbal and interpersonal communication.
  
  

• Seniority level Entry level

• Employment type Full-time

• Job function Research, Analyst, and Information Technology
• Industries Advertising Services

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Hillbrow, Gauteng, South Africa 2 days ago

Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa 2 days ago

Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa 1 week ago

We’re unlocking community knowledge in a new way. Experts add insights directly into each article, started with the help of AI.

Our client is seeking an experienced and technically astute Research & Development Manager to lead their Research & Development laboratory operations and oversee projects related to alternative raw materials, packaging changes, stability testing, and the transition from new product development to commercial launches. The successful candidate will report directly to the Head of R&D and will work closely with the Chief Innovation Officer.

Key Responsibilities

• Oversee all R&D lab activities, including setting weekly work plans and monitoring progress.

• Manage projects covering regulatory compliance, raw material changes, new packaging, and product promotions.

• Chair weekly project tracker meetings and provide clear updates to the Head of R&D and other stakeholders.

• Draft and approve departmental SOPs to ensure operational excellence.

• Collaborate with Manufacturing and QA teams to resolve batch failures, reworks, and customer complaints.

• Oversee documentation from Operational and Stability Chemists to internal and external stakeholders.

• Maintain Bills of Materials (BOM) in Syspro.

• Manage MMI storage, archiving, updates, and issuing.

• Oversee IEP/CEP sample and report control.

• Mentor, develop, and appraise the R&D team, identifying and implementing training needs.

• Ensure R&D team members are fully trained to transition NPD and formula upgrades to commercial manufacturing.

• Manage team administration, including attendance, discipline, and performance standards.

• Support the Head of R&D with departmental budgeting and cost management.

• Manage departmental resources, including purchasing consumables and evaluating new equipment.

• Compile accurate raw material files and key technical documentation.

• Prepare and present monthly statistical and performance reports to the Head of R&D.

Requirements

• Bachelor of Science (BSc) in a relevant scientific field.

• Coschem Diploma / Diploma in Cosmetic Formulation, with a postgraduate qualification in Project Management.

• Minimum 6–8 years in a cosmetics R&D environment, with at least 5 years in an R&D managerial role.

• Strong technical expertise in cosmetics or pharmaceuticals.

• Proven project management track record, delivering projects on time and within budget.

• Excellent leadership, mentoring, and people management skills.

• Strong regulatory knowledge and understanding of product compliance.

Vodacom Johannesburg, Gauteng, South Africa

The number 1 Top Employer in South Africa. Certified by the Top Employer Institute 2025.

Role Purpose/Business Unit: To provide specialist expertise and hands-on support in the investigation, evaluation, and implementation of emerging technology trends, innovation opportunities, and industry capabilities within Vodacom Group Technology.

Your responsibilities will include:

• Technology Scouting & Evaluation: Support the identification and assessment of emerging technologies, innovation enablers, and disruptive trends in telecoms and adjacent industries
• Proof of Concept/Value Execution: Participate in the design, execution, and evaluation of proof-of-concept, trial, and proof-of-value initiatives
• Cross-functional Collaboration: Work closely with technology strategy, networks, IT, commercial teams, and operational markets internally and with vendors, academia, and startups externally. Should have strong project & program management skills
• External Ecosystem Engagement: Engage with academia, research institutions, vendors, startups, and partners
• Reporting & Knowledge Sharing: Track, document, and report on R&D initiatives and contribute to knowledge transfer

The ideal candidate for this role will have:

• Matric/Grade 12 (or SAQA Accredited equivalent) is essential
• A relevant 4-year Honours Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or Information Systems is essential
• A postgraduate qualification (Masters/PhD) in a technology or innovation-related field is highly desirable
• A minimum of 5 years in telecoms or ICT, with at least 2 years experience in a R&D, innovation, systems design/architecture, operational, management consulting or technology strategy function

Core competencies, knowledge, and experience:

• In-depth knowledge of the ICT & Telecommunication industry
• Strong analytical, critical, and lateral thinking skills
• Excellent communication, both written & verbal across different levels from technical to an executive/ C-suite, collaboration, and stakeholder management skills
• Self- starter with ability to take initiative and drive projects independently. Excellent organization, time management and prioritization skills
• Familiarity with R&D processes, innovation lifecycle, and technology evaluation methodologies

We make an impact by offering:

• Enticing incentive programs and competitive benefit packages
• Retirement funds, risk benefits, and medical aid benefits
• Cell phone and data benefits, advantages fibre connection discounts, and exclusive staff discounts offered in collaboration with partner companies

Closing date for Applications: 11 October 2025

The base location for this role is Midrand, Vodacom Campus

The company's approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply.

Vodacom is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates, and values diversity & inclusion.

When it comes to putting people first, we're number 1.

The number 1 Top Employer in South Africa.
Certified by the Top Employer Institute 2025.

To provide specialist expertise and hands-on support in the investigation, evaluation, and implementation of emerging technology trends, innovation opportunities, and industry capabilities within Vodacom Group Technology.

• Technology Scouting & Evaluation : Support the identification and assessment of emerging technologies, innovation enablers, and disruptive trends in telecoms and adjacent industries.
• Proof of Concept/Value Execution : Participate in the design, execution, and evaluation of proof-of-concept, trial, and proof-of-value initiatives.
• Cross-functional Collaboration : Work closely with technology strategy, networks, IT, commercial teams, and operational markets internally and with vendors, academia, and startups externally. Should have strong project & program management skills.
• External Ecosystem Engagement : Engage with academia, research institutions, vendors, startups, and partners.
• Reporting & Knowledge Sharing : Track, document, and report on R&D initiatives and contribute to knowledge transfer

• Matric/Grade 12 (or SAQA Accredited equivalent) is essential
• A relevant 4-year Honours Degree in Engineering, Computer Science, or Information Systems is essential
• A postgraduate qualification (Masters/PhD) in a technology or innovation-related field is highly desirable
• A minimum of 5 years in telecoms or ICT, with at least 2 years experience in a R&D, innovation, systems design/architecture, operational, management consulting or technology strategy function.

• In-depth knowledge of the ICT & Telecommunication industry.
• Strong analytical, critical, and lateral thinking skills.
• Excellent communication, both written & verbal across different levels from technical to an executive/ C-suite, collaboration, and stakeholder management skills.
• Self- starter with ability to take initiative and drive projects independently. Excellent organization, time management and prioritization skills.
• Familiarity with R&D processes, innovation lifecycle, and technology evaluation methodologies.

• Enticing incentive programs and competitive benefit packages
• Retirement funds, risk benefits, and medical aid benefits
• Cell phone and data benefits, advantages fibre connection discounts, and exclusive staff discounts offered in collaboration with partner companies

Closing date for Applications: 11 October 2025

The base location for this role is Midrand, Vodacom Campus

The company's approved Employment Equity Plan and Targets will be considered as part of the recruitment process. As an Equal Opportunities employer, we actively encourage and welcome people with various disabilities to apply.
Vodacom is committed to an organisational culture that recognises, appreciates, and values diversity & inclusion.

Overview

AFRIKAANS FLUENTLY, FRENCH WILL BE ADVANTAGE

Research & Development Manager Agricultural

Fertilizer Products

Springs, East Rand, Ekurhuleni

• Lead the development and formulation of new fertilizer products to enhance crop performance.
• Identify and evaluate new opportunities, conducting feasibility studies for projects and products.
• Define and implement an Research & Development roadmap aligned with business objectives and market trends.
• Apply scientific methods, design trial protocols, conduct and manage research projects, analyze trial data, and produce clear reports.
• Maintain strong documentation standards; develop and update SOPs.
• Oversee laboratory, greenhouse, and field trial activities, ensuring accurate execution and data integrity.
• Support the product registration process and troubleshoot technical production issues.
• Supervise daily laboratory operations, maintain safety, and promote continuous learning and innovation in the Research & Development team.
• Mentor and develop junior team members and allocate resources effectively.
• Manage Research & Development budgets and track project timelines, delivering world-class research aligned with latest agronomic and biotechnological trends.

• Master’s Degree in Biotechnology (Biochemistry, Microbiology, Plant Physiology) or Agronomy .
• At least 10 years experience in the agriculture sector .
• Minimum 5 years proven experience in team leadership.
• Good command of Afrikaans/English/French (advantageous).
• Strong analytical, planning, and time management skills.
• Advanced computer proficiency (MS Office and MS Project).
• Excellent verbal and written communicator, skilled in stakeholder engagement and presenting.
• Demonstrated innovation, adaptability, and strong professional ethics.
• Solid business and financial understanding with a focus on process improvement and achieving results.

Overview

Our Client in the Research and Technology Industry is seeking to employ a Senior Projects and Research Manager to their team based in Port Elizabeth.

Requirements:

• BCom / BSc Statistics / Marketing / Management degree or equivalent.
• Agile Project Management Certification advantageous.
• Valid drivers’ license and own reliable transport advantageous.
• 5 years’ experience in a similar role.

Responsibilities, but not limited to:

• Lead and manage multiple research and project initiatives from scoping through to final delivery.
• Ensure accuracy, timeliness, and innovation across all stages of project execution.
• Guide, mentor, and support a team of Project and Research Managers to achieve high performance.
• Drive collaboration and alignment across cross-functional teams.
• Balance competing priorities effectively while maintaining project quality and strategic focus.
• Engage with internal and external stakeholders to ensure alignment and stakeholder satisfaction.
• Interpret and analyse complex data sets to extract meaningful insights and recommendations.
• Deliver research outcomes that directly support strategic decision-making.
• Promote customer experience measurement and management as a core element of project work.
• Encourage curiosity and innovation to deliver fresh thinking and impactful research solutions.
• Maintain momentum on fast-paced projects while upholding high standards of quality and delivery.
• Foster a culture of continuous improvement, resilience, and proactive problem-solving.
• Strong ability to work with, analyse, interpret, and report on data.
• Advanced proficiency in Microsoft Excel, including formulas, pivot tables, and data modelling.
• Confident user of Microsoft Office Suite.
• Familiarity with BI reporting tools (e.g., Power BI) is an advantage.
• Professional approach to report writing, documentation, and written communication.
• Confident in presenting findings clearly and credibly to stakeholders at all levels.
• Skilled in managing and monitoring all phases of a research project—from scoping to delivery.
• Practical application of Agile principles and ceremonies for effective delivery.
• Experienced in managing resources across multiple projects and prioritising effectively.
• Able to analyse customer interactions to identify themes and extract meaningful insights.
• Deep interest in customer experience measurement and management, with a focus on translating data into actionable outcomes.
• Committed to continuous improvement, with a focus on process efficiency and accuracy.
• Understanding of data structures and interest in Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Natural Language Processing (NLP).
• Proven experience in leading and coaching project teams.
• Thrives under pressure and maintains composure in fast-paced, agile environments.
• Passionate about customer experience, with an instinct to see the story behind the numbers.
• Strong leadership skills with a track record of developing and inspiring teams.
• Works collaboratively while confidently taking ownership when required.
• Highly organised, with the ability to estimate, priorities, and deliver work accurately and on time.
• Naturally curious and eager to explore new ideas, methods, and approaches.
• Positive, resilient, and solutions-oriented, with strong problem-solving capabilities.
• Detail-oriented.

Company Overview:
Lightstone is an intelligent solutions company with strong, industry-specific expertise and core capabilities in data management, GIS, analytics and software development.

We specialize in delivering integrated, online knowledge solutions, batch and real-time data quality solutions, and a broad range of geo-spatial and analytic projects to a range of property, business to consumer, government and financial services clients.

We hire exceptional people and provide them with the environment where they can excel. Our non-corporate culture encourages flexibility, collaboration and innovation.

We pride ourselves in our core values to Encourage Participation, Respond to Changing Needs and Win Together, which are reflected in each development, project, product or service we undertake to deliver.

Team Overview:
The Projects and Research team at Lightstone delivers high quality market research, customer experience measurement and bespoke project solutions. We manage complex, high value projects across multiple industries, with a particular focus on the automotive sector. Our department includes skilled Project and Research Managers, a dedicated Quality Auditing team and a professional outbound research team.

We work in a fast paced, collaborative environment where accuracy, insight and delivery are key. Our focus is on translating data into meaningful stories that support decision making for our clients. The team thrives on curiosity, adaptability and a commitment to continuous improvement, while maintaining a strong connection to Lightstone's values of participation, responsiveness and winning together.

Role Overview:
As Senior Projects and Research Manager, you will be at the forefront of fast moving, high impact research and project delivery. This is a role for someone who thrives on complexity, challenge and pace. You will oversee multiple research projects from start to finish, ensuring accuracy, timeliness and innovation at every stage.

You will lead a team of Project and Research Managers, providing guidance, direction and mentorship while driving collaboration across teams. Your work will require you to manage competing priorities, engage directly with both internal and external stakeholders, and deliver insights that shape decisions at a strategic level.

Your expertise in interpreting and analysing data will be central to the role. A passion for customer experience measurement and management will guide your work, ensuring that projects deliver meaningful value. You should be curious by nature, a researcher at heart in everything you do, and able to channel that curiosity into fresh thinking and impactful solutions.

This is not a passive position. It demands focus, resilience, dedication and the ability to keep projects moving at speed without compromising on quality.

Qualifications/Requirements:

• BCom/BSc Statistics/Marketing/Management degree or equivalent.
• Agile Project Management Certification advantagious.
• Valid drivers' license and own reliable transport advantageous.

Experience:

• 5 years' experience in a similar role.

Technical Skills:

• Strong ability to work with, analyse, interpret and report on data
• Advanced knowledge of Microsoft Excel including formulas, pivot tables and data modelling
• Confident using Microsoft Office Suite products
• Familiarity with BI reporting tools such as Power BI is an advantage
• Professional approach to report writing, documentation and all written communication
• Confident in presenting findings to stakeholders at all levels with clarity and credibility
• Strong capability in managing and monitoring all phases of a research project from scoping to delivery
• Practical application of Agile principles and ceremonies to drive effective delivery
• Ability to manage resources across multiple projects and prioritise effectively
• Experience in analysing customer interactions, identifying themes and extracting meaningful insights
• Deep interest in customer experience measurement and management, with an ability to link data to actionable outcomes
• Commitment to continuous improvement with a focus on making processes more efficient and accurate
• Understanding of data structures and an interest in Artificial Intelligence and natural language processing
• Proven experience leading and coaching project teams

Non-technical skills:

• Thrives under pressure and maintains composure in a fast paced, agile environment
• Passion for customer experience and an instinct to see the story behind the numbers
• Strong leadership skills with experience in guiding, developing and inspiring teams
• Works collaboratively but is confident taking ownership when needed
• Highly organised with the ability to accurately estimate work, prioritise tasks and deliver on time
• Naturally curious and driven to explore new ideas, methods and approaches
• Positive, resilient and solutions focused with the ability to overcome obstacles
• Detail orientated with a strong commitment to accuracy and research integrity
• Open minded and eager to learn, with a constant drive to refine and improve outputs
• Proactive in identifying opportunities that deliver real value to clients and stakeholders
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills with a confident and credible presence
• Committed to staying informed of industry trends, new technologies and best practices in research methodologies

Reference: PE -JD-1

The hiring organisation is a science-based organisation working to protect Africa’s seas and communities for the benefit of all who live on the continent. Their vision of success is a future where the people of Africa and her seas flourish together. Using waste as the lens, marine pollution as the impact the organisation works to mitigate, and the coastal communities of Africa as the focal point of interactions between land and ocean, the Research, Development and Monitoring impact portfolio works to design well-structured, high-quality research programmes to ensure comprehensive understanding of the challenges impeding sustainable waste management in identified coastal communities.

This position of Manager: Research, Development and Monitoring is based in Port Elizabeth, and is offered on a 12-month Fixed Term Contract basis. He/she is answerable to the Head of Marine and Coastal Impact Programmes.

S/he will ensure that sound research interventions underpin the design of all marine conservation interventions (training, skills transfer, capacity building, community upliftment, and enterprise development) and that the research outcomes directly inform all organisational strategic guidance and advice given (at both a national and regional scale) to support sustainable waste management. Lastly, s/he will be responsible for impact reporting within the organisation through the design of a robust organisational monitoring and evaluation framework.

This exciting programme has both a local focus and a national and regional focus across Africa.

• Coordinate research activities and build the organisational capacity on research techniques and methods (qualitative, quantitative, policy, etc.).
• Initiate, coordinate, and assist all activities across identified research projects as aligned with the organisational Theory of Change and strategy.
• Initiate, coordinate, and maintain effective relationships with identified researchers and research influencers.
• Assist and control the quality of all research projects across portfolios of work, including but not limited to research designs, methods, data management strategies, data analysis, and publication writing.
• Organise knowledge and skills sharing to increase organisational research capacity.
• Guide the design of all interventions to achieve organisational marine pollution, blue economy and ocean conservation objectives.
• Ensure all research activities align with international best practice with regards to research ethics and principles.
• Manage the finances of every aspect of the Research, Development and Monitoring Impact Portfolio, including preparing budgets and financial reporting, managing the training budget and monitoring monthly expenditure reports.
• Drive and oversee the development and update of NPO’s internal organisational Monitoring and Evaluation systems, analysing data and providing reporting as required to various stakeholders, including assisting other roles in the organisation with such.
• Work with other impact portfolios to ensure interventions are rolled out and reported on correctly.

At least a Masters’ degree in one of the environmental sciences a prerequisite.
At least seven (7) years’ proven experience in an appropriate discipline, and at least three (3) of these in a management role.
A proven successful track record in leading research teams and pioneering new research methods.
A good track record in research and writing, ideally writing reports, and professional publications (beyond science and peer reviewed publications).
Competence in statistics and at least a working knowledge of modelling and Artificial Intelligence.
Proven track record in developing and implementing strategic plans.
Ability to successfully work with and lead a team.
Valid driver’s license essential. Must be comfortable driving alone.
SA Citizen with a clean criminal record.

Has a passion for the sustainability agenda.
Is well organised and proactive.
Able to stay well-informed on the latest global developments on plastics (e.g. the Global Plastics Treaty), climate change, marine conservation, and education.
Has an excellent understanding of stakeholder engagement strategies.
Displays excellence in public speaking, presenting research plans and results.
Displays high attention to detail.

Location: Port Elizabeth - 100% in office.
Duration: Full-time 12-month fixed-term contract, with potential to renew for an additional 3 years.
Start date: As soon as possible.
Salary: Market related. No benefits.

Short listed candidates may be expected to complete and pass assessments before moving to the next stage of the recruitment process.
If you have not heard from us within two weeks of submitting your CV, please deem your application as unsuccessful.

The hiring organisation is a science-based organisation working to protect Africa’s seas and communities for the benefit of all who live on the continent. Their vision of success is a future where the people of Africa and her seas flourish together. Using waste as the lens, marine pollution as the impact the organisation works to mitigate, and the coastal communities of Africa as the focal point of interactions between land and ocean, the Research, Development and Monitoring impact portfolio works to design well-structured, high-quality research programmes to ensure comprehensive understanding of the challenges impeding sustainable waste management in identified coastal communities.

This position of Manager: Research, Development and Monitoring is based in Port Elizabeth, and is offered on a 12-month Fixed Term Contract basis. He/she is answerable to the Head of Marine and Coastal Impact Programmes.

S/he will ensure that sound research interventions underpin the design of all marine conservation interventions (training, skills transfer, capacity building, community upliftment, and enterprise development) and that the research outcomes directly inform all organisational strategic guidance and advice given (at both a national and regional scale) to support sustainable waste management. Lastly, s/he will be responsible for impact reporting within the organisation through the design of a robust organisational monitoring and evaluation framework.

• Coordinate research activities and build the organisational capacity on research techniques and methods (qualitative, quantitative, policy, etc.).
• Initiate, coordinate, and assist all activities across identified research projects as aligned with the organisational Theory of Change and strategy.
• Initiate, coordinate, and maintain effective relationships with identified researchers and research influencers.
• Assist and control the quality of all research projects across portfolios of work, including but not limited to research designs, methods, data management strategies, data analysis, and publication writing.
• Organise knowledge and skills sharing to increase organisational research capacity.
• Guide the design of all interventions to achieve organisational marine pollution, blue economy and ocean conservation objectives.
• Ensure all research activities align with international best practice with regards to research ethics and principles.
• Manage the finances of every aspect of the Research, Development and Monitoring Impact Portfolio, including preparing budgets and financial reporting, managing the training budget and monitoring monthly expenditure reports.
• Drive and oversee the development and update of NPO’s internal organisational Monitoring and Evaluation systems, analysing data and providing reporting as required to various stakeholders, including assisting other roles in the organisation with such.
• Work with other impact portfolios to ensure interventions are rolled out and reported on correctly.

• At least a Masters’ degree in one of the environmental sciences a prerequisite.
• At least seven (7) years’ proven experience in an appropriate discipline, and at least three (3) of these in a management role.
• A proven successful track record in leading research teams and pioneering new research methods.
• A good track record in research and writing, ideally writing reports, and professional publications (beyond science and peer reviewed publications).
• Competence in statistics and at least a working knowledge of modelling and Artificial Intelligence.
• Proven track record in developing and implementing strategic plans.
• Ability to successfully work with and lead a team.
• Valid driver’s license essential. Must be comfortable driving alone.
• SA Citizen with a clean criminal record.

• Has a passion for the sustainability agenda.
• Is well organised and proactive.
• Able to stay well-informed on the latest global developments on plastics (e.g. the Global Plastics Treaty), climate change, marine conservation, and education.
• Has an excellent understanding of stakeholder engagement strategies.
• Displays excellence in public speaking, presenting research plans and results.
• Displays high attention to detail.

Location: Port Elizabeth - 100% in office.
Duration: Full-time 12-month fixed-term contract, with potential to renew for an additional 3 years.
Start date: As soon as possible.
Salary: Market related. No benefits.