The African Research Universities Alliance (ARUA) was inaugurated in Dakar in March 2015, bringing together sixteen (16) of the region’s leading universities. There are currently 19 full members and three associate members.

Besides coming from different countries and different historical backgrounds, the Alliance members have a common vision. They seek to expand and enhance significantly the quality of research done in Africa by African researchers. They are pursuing enhanced research and graduate training at member universities through several channels, including the setting up of Centres of Excellence (CoEs). The main approach in the search for research excellence is effective collaboration to find solutions to the development problems of Africa. Under its current strategic plan (2022-2027), all the above is done under 4 pillars, namely (1) significantly improved research quantity and quality, (2) significantly enhanced graduate training, (3) professionalized research management, and (4) effective research advocacy.

ARUA is currently searching for a Director of Training and Research Advocacy. This is a new position, and the successful candidate will be expected to take office as soon as possible.

DUTIES

The Director of Training and Research Advocacy will report directly to the Secretary-General and be responsible for the management and coordination of 2 of the 4 pillars of ARUA work, namely Graduate Training and Research Advocacy. The Director shall develop and oversee programmes and activities to facilitate the achievement of the vision and mission of ARUA in the areas of Graduate Training and Research Advocacy. He/she shall ensure the achievement of the relevant strategic objectives of ARUA by promoting those programmes and activities to achieve Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) as reflected in the ARUA Strategic Plan 2022-2027.

The Director of Training and Research Advocacy shall perform any other related tasks that may be assigned by the Secretary-General, the Executive Committee or the Board from time to time.

DUTY STATION

The Director for Training and Research Advocacy will be stationed at the ARUA Secretariat in Accra, Ghana.

TENURE

The Director of Training and Research Advocacy will be appointed for a period of up to 4 years, and the contract will be renewable. It is not expected, however, that anyone will occupy the position for more than 8 years in total.

QUALIFICATIONS

The applicant must be a holder of a PhD and must be a professor at an ARUA member university, with administrative experience of at least 5 years at the level of Dean of School/Faculty or their equivalent.

OTHER CONSIDERATIONS

The Director of Training and Research Advocacy must be a person of the highest integrity, without any criminal record, and with evidence of active participation in graduate training and research advocacy. The applicant must have a track record of resource mobilization and evidence of international exposure.

Persons in leadership positions at ARUA universities, especially women, are strongly encouraged to apply. Individuals on appropriate sabbatical leave will also be considered for shorter-term appointments.

TERMS OF SERVICE

The terms and conditions of service are negotiable and attractive.

EXPRESSING INTEREST IN THE POSITION

Expression of interest in the position, made up of letter showing motivation and current CV, should be submitted to the Secretary to Board of ARUA by 15^th March 2024 at the following email address: info@arua.org.za