Research Fellow / Language Researcher – Swahili or Koisan (2 posts)

About the role

Midlands State University is inviting applications for two academic positions focused on Swahili or Koisan languages. The roles can be filled as a Research Fellow, Language Researcher, or Research Assistant, depending on the candidate’s qualifications and experience.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct original language research and provide consultancy services in the assigned language portfolio.
• Develop innovative research proposals and seek external funding for the Institute.
• Supervise undergraduate (and for Fellows, postgraduate) research projects.
• Recruit clients for tutorials and other language‑related services.
• Participate in project, institute, and university committee meetings.
• Perform additional duties as assigned by the Executive Director or senior staff.

Required profile

• Bachelor’s degree in Swahili/Koisan Language & Literature, Linguistics, Applied Linguistics, Translation & Interpreting, or related fields (for Research Assistant).
• Master’s degree in Swahili/Koisan Linguistics, Applied Linguistics, Comparative Linguistics, or Translation Studies (for Language Researcher).
• PhD in any of the above areas, with a focus on language documentation, corpus linguistics, language policy, or educational technology (for Research Fellow).
• Demonstrated fluency in both spoken and written Swahili or Koisan.
• Relevant research or teaching experience is preferred.

Required skills

What we offer

• Equal‑opportunity employment with encouragement for female applicants.
• Opportunity to work in a vibrant academic environment and contribute to language preservation and research.