137 Research Projects jobs in South Africa

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.

Reference: PE000185-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.

Cape Town

We Are Innovators & Category Creators

There are not many companies that are truly creating the future they imagined and emerging as category creators, we are not imitators and therefore looking for courageous creators! Clickatell is changing the way consumer and brands are engaging and ultimately how commerce will get done. We are creating the leading Chat Commerce enabler, and we are looking for top, self-motivated talent that wants to have an impact.

We have a collaborative culture in which we dream big and solve complex challenges together in creative ways.We only accept champions who understand the bigger picture, believe in making a difference and are able to connect the dots to achieve big things.In our agile and demanding environment, you will be required to collaborate across cultures and time zones, ask the right questions and take the smart risk.

We call ourselves Champions. Why Champions? We believe it’s not only about what we have done, but what we are doing and going to do.The way we do things, matter and influences how we drive our organization forward and deliver solutions to our customers.Watch this space as we blaze a new path while expanding across the globe.

Purpose

Are you a recent graduate with a passion for innovation, a curious mind, and a desire to shape the future of the Software as a Service (SaaS) industry? If you're ready to be at the forefront of technological advancements and drive innovation in a dynamic environment, our Graduate Research & Development Engineer : Innovation might be the perfect opportunity for you to kickstart your career.

We Do The Right Things

Responsibilities of the Role

What You'll Learn and Do:

• Creative Problem Solving: Learn how to approach complex challenges with innovative solutions. You'll be encouraged to think creatively, challenge conventions, and find novel ways to address industry-specific problems.
• Technology Trends: Stay on the cutting edge of technology. Explore emerging trends like AI, machine learning, blockchain, and more, and understand how these innovations can be applied to enhance our SaaS offerings.
• Product Development: Gain insights into the entire product development lifecycle. You'll be involved in concept ideation, prototyping, testing, and implementation of new features and products.
• Market Research: Understand customer needs and market dynamics. Conduct research to identify opportunities for innovation, ensuring that our solutions remain competitive and meet evolving demands.

Why Join Us:

• Innovation Culture: Be part of a culture that values and rewards innovation. We encourage and support employees to explore new ideas and turn them into reality.
• Mentorship: Benefit from the guidance of industry leaders and experts who are passionate about nurturing the next generation of innovators.
• Career Growth: Our program is designed to propel you into a fulfilling career in innovation and technology. We provide opportunities for advancement and skill development.
• Impact: Your work will have a direct impact on our SaaS offerings and the industries we serve. You'll help shape the future of technology solutions.

If you're excited about the prospect of being an innovator in the SaaS industry and believe you have what it takes, then we’d like to hear from you.

Requirements of the Role

• Recent graduate with a degree in a relevant field (Technology, Computer Science, Business, Innovation, etc.)
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• A creative and forward-thinking mindset
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities
• An eagerness to learn and adapt to new technologies

Why You Should Join

Perks of the Role

• Reimbursable communications allowance for internet and mobile phone bills
• Half-day off on your birthday
• Hybrid working with access to office hubs as required.
• Home office set-up with laptop, monitor and other related items.
• Coaching sessions to provide young graduates with a strong foundation for personal and professional success.
• Alumni Buddy for support through navigating the world of work.

Stronger Together

At Clickatell, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging is at the core of who we are - from how we build our product platforms to how we build our workforce. We believe that we are stronger together and by leveraging the power of diversity and inclusion, we are able to generate innovative ideas to revolutionize the way the world uses chat technology. We create common ground - Our platform is for all, and so is our workplace. Everyone is welcome at Clickatell, and our employees feel psychologically safe and empowered to show up with their authentic selves at work.

Create a Job Alert

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LinkedIn Profile

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Do you possess a valid South African ID? * Select.

Do you have a formal 3- year tertiary qualification obtained within the last 5 years * Select.

Are you based in Cape Town and able to commute to the office if and when required? * Select.

Please write a motivation as to why you should be considered for this program. *

Are you available to participate in the program from 2 February 2026 till 30 November 2026? * Select.

• BTech (Industrial Design)
• 3+ years experience in the following:
• Conceptualisation and problem-solving of various design criteria
• Proficiency in SolidWorks, CorelDRAW (Advantageous), and Microsoft Office (Compulsory).
• Proficiency with simulation software mechanical and thermal.
• Sketching, concept drawing, 3D presentation/rendering, technical drawing.
• Design experience in plastic fabrication, other manufacturing processes such as sheet metal, injection moulding, extrusion, vacuum forming, as well as printing.
• Producing efficient designs within the framework of simplicity, feasibility, cost efficiency, and accuracy.
• Compiling assemblies and detailed manufacturing drawings by acknowledged manufacturing standards.
• Issuing revisions and updates to the manufacturing drawings and material lists.
• Providing technical support during manufacturing processes.
• The following additional experience will be highly advantageous:
• Basic Electrical / Electronic knowledge and experience.

• Product Industrialisation
• Research Responsibilities
• Product Development and Deployment
• Administration and Reporting

Cape Town

We Are Innovators & Category Creators

There are not many companies that are truly creating the future they imagined and emerging as category creators, we are not imitators and therefore looking for courageous creators! Clickatell is changing the way consumer and brands are engaging and ultimately how commerce will get done. We are creating the leading Chat Commerce enabler, and we are looking for top, self-motivated talent that wants to have an impact.

We have a collaborative culture in which we dream big and solve complex challenges together in creative ways.We only accept champions who understand the bigger picture, believe in making a difference and are able to connect the dots to achieve big things.In our agile and demanding environment, you will be required to collaborate across cultures and time zones, ask the right questions and take the smart risk.

We call ourselves Champions. Why Champions? We believe it’s not only about what we have done, but what we are doing and going to do.The way we do things, matter and influences how we drive our organization forward and deliver solutions to our customers.Watch this space as we blaze a new path while expanding across the globe.

Purpose

Are you a recent graduate with a passion for innovation, a curious mind, and a desire to shape the future of the Software as a Service (SaaS) industry? If you're ready to be at the forefront of technological advancements and drive innovation in a dynamic environment, our Graduate Research & Development Engineer : Innovation might be the perfect opportunity for you to kickstart your career.

We Do The Right Things

Responsibilities of the Role

What You'll Learn and Do:

• Creative Problem Solving: Learn how to approach complex challenges with innovative solutions. You'll be encouraged to think creatively, challenge conventions, and find novel ways to address industry-specific problems.
• Technology Trends: Stay on the cutting edge of technology. Explore emerging trends like AI, machine learning, blockchain, and more, and understand how these innovations can be applied to enhance our SaaS offerings.
• Product Development: Gain insights into the entire product development lifecycle. You'll be involved in concept ideation, prototyping, testing, and implementation of new features and products.
• Market Research: Understand customer needs and market dynamics. Conduct research to identify opportunities for innovation, ensuring that our solutions remain competitive and meet evolving demands .

Why Join Us:

• Innovation Culture: Be part of a culture that values and rewards innovation. We encourage and support employees to explore new ideas and turn them into reality.
• Mentorship: Benefit from the guidance of industry leaders and experts who are passionate about nurturing the next generation of innovators.
• Career Growth: Our program is designed to propel you into a fulfilling career in innovation and technology. We provide opportunities for advancement and skill development.
• Impact: Your work will have a direct impact on our SaaS offerings and the industries we serve. You'll help shape the future of technology solutions .

If you're excited about the prospect of being an innovator in the SaaS industry and believe you have what it takes , then we’d like to hear from you.

Requirements of the Role

• Recent graduate with a degree in a relevant field ( Technology, Computer Science, Business, Innovation, etc.)
• Strong problem-solving and critical thinking skills
• A creative and forward-thinking mindset
• Excellent communication and collaboration abilities
• An eagerness to learn and adapt to new technologies

Why You Should Join

Perks of the Role

• Reimbursable communications allowance for internet and mobile phone bills
• Half-day off on your birthday
• Hybrid working with access to office hubs as required.
• Home office set-up with laptop, monitor and other related items.
• Coaching sessions to provide young graduates with a strong foundation for personal and professional success.
• Alumni Buddy for support through navigating the world of work.

Stronger Together

At Clickatell, Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging is at the core of who we are - from how we build our product platforms to how we build our workforce. We believe that we are stronger together and by leveraging the power of diversity and inclusion, we are able to generate innovative ideas to revolutionize the way the world uses chat technology. We create common ground - Our platform is for all, and so is our workplace. Everyone is welcome at Clickatell, and our employees feel psychologically safe and empowered to show up with their authentic selves at work.

Create a Job Alert

Interested in building your career at Clickatell? Get future opportunities sent straight to your email.

*

indicates a required field

First Name *

Last Name *

Email *

Phone

Resume/CV

Enter manually

Accepted file types: pdf, doc, docx, txt, rtf

Enter manually

Accepted file types: pdf, doc, docx, txt, rtf

LinkedIn Profile

Website

Do you possess a valid South African ID? * Select.

Do you have a formal 3- year tertiary qualification obtained within the last 5 years * Select.

Are you based in Cape Town and able to commute to the office if and when required? * Select.

Please write a motivation as to why you should be considered for this program. *

Are you available to participate in the program from 2 February 2026 till 30 November 2026? * Select.