About Company
The University of Botswana (UB) is the premier institution of higher education in Botswana, established in 1982 as a beacon of national aspiration and academic excellence. Committed to the intellectual, social, and economic development of the nation, UB plays a pivotal role in shaping the future of Botswana through quality education, groundbreaking research, and community engagement. We offer a comprehensive array of undergraduate and postgraduate programs across diverse faculties, including Humanities, Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Engineering and Technology, Business, Education, and Health Sciences. As a leading research hub in the region, UB is dedicated to generating new knowledge, fostering innovation, and addressing critical societal challenges through rigorous academic inquiry. Our vibrant and inclusive campus environment promotes a culture of continuous learning, discovery, and collaboration, attracting a diverse cohort of students and faculty from across Botswana and internationally. We pride ourselves on creating a supportive atmosphere where every individual can thrive, contribute meaningfully to their fields, and advance national and global priorities. Join us in our mission to be a leading academic centre of excellence.
Job Description
The University of Botswana is actively seeking a highly motivated and enthusiastic individual to join our dynamic research teams as an Entry-Level Research Assistant. This is an exceptional opportunity for a recent graduate or an individual with foundational academic experience eager to launch their career in research within a prestigious academic environment. The successful candidate will provide crucial supportive assistance across various ongoing research projects within different departments, gaining invaluable hands-on experience in the entire research lifecycle. This includes, but is not limited to, conducting comprehensive literature reviews, assisting with data collection through surveys or experiments, basic data entry and preliminary analysis, and contributing to the preparation of research reports and presentations.
This position offers a unique chance to work closely alongside experienced faculty members, principal investigators, and senior researchers, allowing you to contribute to meaningful studies and develop a comprehensive skill set in academic research methodologies. We are particularly looking for someone who is eager to learn, demonstrates meticulous attention to detail in their work, and is passionate about contributing to the advancement of knowledge. The role also involves assisting with administrative tasks related to research, such as preparing ethical clearance applications, compiling information for grant proposals, organizing research meetings, and aiding in the dissemination of research findings through various academic channels.
This role is ideally suited for an individual who is highly organized, possesses excellent time management skills, and is keen to make a tangible impact within the academic and scientific community. You will be exposed to a diverse range of research topics and methodologies, fostering a broad understanding of interdisciplinary collaboration and the nuances of academic inquiry. We provide a supportive environment for professional growth and skill development, empowering our entry-level staff to evolve into proficient researchers.
Key Responsibilities
- Assist senior researchers and faculty in conducting literature reviews and synthesizing existing research.
- Support in the design and implementation of data collection instruments (e.g., surveys, questionnaires, experimental protocols).
- Perform accurate data entry, organization, and preliminary analysis using statistical software under supervision.
- Aid in the preparation of research reports, presentations, and academic publications.
- Manage and maintain research databases and project documentation.
- Assist with administrative tasks, including scheduling meetings, preparing agendas, and recording minutes.
- Liaise with ethical review boards for research protocol submissions and amendments.
- Contribute to the drafting and editing of grant proposals and research funding applications.
- Ensure strict adherence to research protocols, ethical guidelines, and data confidentiality standards.
- Participate in team meetings, seminars, and workshops to foster professional development.
Required Skills
- Bachelor’s degree in a relevant field (e.g., Social Sciences, Natural Sciences, Humanities, Public Health).
- Strong organizational skills and meticulous attention to detail.
- Excellent written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office Suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint).
- Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a team environment.
- Demonstrated interest in research and academic inquiry.
- Capacity to learn and apply new research methodologies and software quickly.
Preferred Qualifications
- Prior experience in a research setting (e.g., university lab, internship, volunteer work).
- Familiarity with basic statistical software (e.g., SPSS, R, Stata) or qualitative data analysis software.
- Experience with academic databases and literature search tools.
- Knowledge of research ethics and data protection principles.
Perks & Benefits
- Competitive salary package commensurate with qualifications and experience.
- Opportunities for professional development and training.
- Access to a rich academic environment and extensive research resources.
- Medical aid scheme contributions.
- Pension scheme contributions.
- Generous annual leave and sick leave provisions.
- Subsidized campus facilities (e.g., gym, library, dining).
- A supportive and collaborative work culture.
How to Apply
Interested and qualified candidates are encouraged to apply by clicking on the application link below. Please ensure your application includes a comprehensive CV, a cover letter outlining your suitability for the role, and academic transcripts. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for an interview.