WITS University Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2026 (24-Month Funded Research Opportunity)

The University Research Council (URC) at the University of the Witwatersrand (WITS) is pleased to announce an open call for applications for its prestigious Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2026. This competitive fellowship is aimed at outstanding early-career researchers who have obtained their PhD within the last five years and are seeking to advance their academic careers within a dynamic and research-intensive environment.

This programme provides a valuable opportunity for emerging scholars to pursue innovative, high-impact research while contributing meaningfully to WITS University’s vibrant intellectual community.

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About WITS University

Located in Johannesburg, South Africa, WITS University is one of Africa’s leading research institutions, known for academic excellence, impactful research, and global collaborations. The Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme strengthens the university’s research capacity while supporting the professional development of promising scholars across disciplines.

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Fellowship Duration and Funding

The fellowship is awarded for a period of 24 months and offers comprehensive financial support, including:

• Annual Stipend: R320,000

• Cost of Living Top-Up: R20,000 per annum

• Research Cost Allowance: R10,000 per annum (available upon application and approval)

The funding package is designed to enable fellows to focus on research productivity, publication, collaboration, and academic engagement without financial strain.

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Who Should Apply?

This fellowship is ideal for:

• Recent PhD graduates seeking to strengthen their research portfolio

• Scholars aiming to expand their publication record

• Researchers looking to collaborate with established academics at a leading African institution

• Academics interested in contributing to interdisciplinary research and university engagement initiatives

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Eligibility Requirements

To be considered for the WITS Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme, applicants must:

• Hold a PhD degree obtained within the last five years from a SAQA-accredited institution

• Be willing to reside in Johannesburg for the full 24-month duration of the fellowship

• Be actively based at WITS University throughout the fellowship period

• Demonstrate commitment to participating in academic and campus activities

• Exemplify the values and spirit of WITS University

Applicants who do not meet these requirements will not be considered.

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Application Process

This is an open call for applications, and candidates must follow the steps below carefully:

Step 1: Identify a Host

Applicants must identify a suitable academic host at WITS University who:

• Works within the applicant’s area of specialization

• Has the capacity and willingness to host a postdoctoral fellow

Early engagement with potential supervisors is strongly encouraged.

Step 2: Develop a Research Project

Together with the identified host, applicants must conceptualize and refine a research project aligned with mutual academic interests and departmental priorities.

Step 3: Prepare a Comprehensive Research Proposal

The proposal must include the following components:

• Background to the Study (1,000 words)
  Including relevant literature and theoretical framework

• Rationale (250 words)
  Clearly outlining the significance and contribution of the study

• Aims and Objectives (300 words)
  Defining the key research goals and intended outcomes

• Research Methodology (1,000 words)
  Detailed explanation of research design, methods, and analytical approach

• Gantt Chart
  Clear timeline outlining research phases across the 24-month period

Carefully structured, well-argued, and methodologically sound proposals will be viewed more favourably.

Step 4: Submit Application

APPLY HERE

Incomplete or late applications will not be considered.

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Application Deadline

7 March 2026

Prospective applicants are strongly advised to begin contacting potential hosts and preparing proposals well in advance of the deadline.

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Why Apply?

The WITS Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme offers:

• Financial stability for focused research

• Access to a world-class research environment

• Opportunities for academic networking and collaboration

• Professional development within a globally recognized institution

• A platform to strengthen research output and academic career progression

This fellowship is more than funding — it is an opportunity to grow as a scholar, contribute to meaningful research, and become part of an influential academic community in Africa and beyond.

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For scholars ready to elevate their research careers, the WITS Postdoctoral Fellowship Programme 2026 represents a significant and prestigious opportunity.

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