Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) x250 Internships 2025

Listing Reference: HSRC-Internship-2025
Listing Status: Open

Position Summary

Company: Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC)
Industry: Research and Development
Job Category: Internship
Location: South Africa
Contract Type: Fixed-term (24 months)
Remuneration: Monthly stipend
EE position: Yes
Closing Date: 17 March 2025

Introduction

The Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) Internship Programme 2025 provides a valuable opportunity for unemployed graduates to gain practical work experience in their respective fields. This programme aims to prepare graduates for the workforce by providing hands-on exposure to research, development, and innovation. It serves as a platform for professional growth while also contributing to the objectives of host institutions.

This fully-funded internship is designed to equip graduates with essential skills, allowing them to transition smoothly into the job market. Participants will gain knowledge in research management, research support, and administration, all while contributing meaningfully to their assigned institutions.

Job Description

The HSRC Internship Programme 2025 is structured to enable interns to:

Acquire practical experience through structured mentoring and training
Develop expertise in research methodologies and administrative support
Gain insight into public higher education institutions and research organizations
Transfer academic knowledge into real-world applications
Assist in research projects, policy development, and strategic planning

Interns will be placed in various research and academic institutions across South Africa, where they will work alongside industry experts. The internship spans 24 months and is financially supported by the HSRC, ensuring interns receive a monthly stipend.

Ideal Candidate

The programme is open to unemployed graduates who meet the following criteria:

Must be a South African citizen or South African Permanent Resident (with a valid ID)
Aged 35 years or younger at the time of application
Must have completed their studies at the time of application submission
Must hold a qualification in any of the following fields:
- Science
- Engineering
- Technology
- Research
- Development
- Innovation
- Social Sciences and Humanities
- Related disciplines
Must possess one of the following NQF Level qualifications:
- NQF Level 7: Bachelor’s Degree, Advanced Diploma, or B-Tech Degree
- NQF Level 8: Bachelor’s Honours Degree or Postgraduate Diploma
- NQF Level 9: Master’s Degree or M-Tech

Role Responsibility

Selected interns will be responsible for:

Conducting literature reviews and data analysis for research projects
Supporting research teams in project development and execution
Assisting in administrative and research-related tasks
Writing reports, summaries, and presentations on key findings
Attending workshops, training sessions, and seminars to enhance professional development
Engaging in collaborative teamwork to achieve research objectives
Supporting the implementation of research methodologies and tools
Contributing to scientific publications and reports

Skills & Attributes

To thrive in this internship programme, candidates should possess:

Strong analytical and critical thinking skills
Excellent research and report-writing abilities
Good organizational and time-management skills
Strong communication and interpersonal skills
Proficiency in Microsoft Office (Word, Excel, PowerPoint)
Ability to work independently and within a team
Adaptability and willingness to learn
Interest in research, development, and innovation

Benefits of the HSRC Internship Programme

Hands-on experience in a professional research environment
Exposure to cutting-edge research and innovation projects
Guidance and mentorship from experienced professionals
A monthly stipend to support living expenses during the internship
A stepping stone to potential long-term employment opportunities
Enhanced career prospects through networking and skill development

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit their applications before the closing date of 17 March 2025. The application should include:

A detailed CV with contactable references
Certified copies of qualifications and academic transcripts
A copy of a valid South African ID or Permanent Residence Permit
A motivational letter explaining why they are suitable for the programme

Applications should be submitted via the HSRC online portal or emailed to the designated recruitment address, as specified in the official HSRC internship announcement.