VACANCIES AT PLAAS Senior Researcher PLAAS has received funding towards a three-year regional research programme. The research will focus on: • small farmers, governance of the value chains in which they participate and the wider agro-food systems of which these are part • commercialisation pressures and competition with external investors over land and water • the implications for rural poverty, gender equality, social differentiation and food security. Applications are invited for this position on an initial one-year contract, which is likely to be renewed. The successful applicant will undertake field research, and will also assist with project co-ordination and management. Appointment requires the following: • a PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g. Agriculture, Anthropology, Sociology, Economics, Geography, History,Environmental Management, Development Studies, or Politics) • a minimum of six years’ experience in research on land and agrarian reform or related issues • thorough understanding of and a keen interest in agrarian reform, agricultural development and rural politics in Southern Africa, as well as a commitment to rigorous applied Social Science research • expertise in gender analysis and gender-disaggregating research methods • a track record of academic publications, conference and professional presentations, and policy engagement in the public and private sectors • the capacity and willingness to provide leadership in the areas of project co-ordination and management (including project finances), academic and project supervision, and fundraising • the ability to manage multiple demands and co-ordinate multi-country research teams • willingness to travel extensively in Southern Africa for fieldwork purposes, but to be based in Cape Town • a valid, unendorsed drivers’ licence Information & Communication Officer PLAAS currently needs a suitably qualified person in the post of Information & Communication Officer, for appointment as soon as possible. This is a one-year contract post which is likely to be renewed. The successful candidate will primarily be responsible for systems and strategies for effective communication, dissemination and information management at PLAAS. This will include the production and dissemination of publications, the effective management of the organisation’s web presence, and co-designing and implementing effective strategies for branding, publicity and public relations. The candidate will also have responsibility for the effective management of common internal information resources of PLAAS, including a CRM and an organisational knowledge base. Key requirements include: • a recognised degree/national diploma or equivalent in a relevant field • proven experience in communication and information management • experience in branding and public relations • excellent computer skills • excellent oral and written communication skills, as well as good interpersonal relations • experience in the field of social media for public relations and advocacy • ability to work under pressure • ability to work as a member of a team within a diverse working environment For further details on this position, contact Ursula Arends of PLAAS on tel. 27 21 959 3733 or via e-mail to
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