Research Assistant Vacancy at Robben Island Museum

To apply, please follow the instructions at the end of this post. We wish you all the best with your application.

Research Assistant

Position: Research Assistant

Department: Heritage & Research Department

Organization: Robben Island Museum (RIM)

Contract Duration: 12 Months

Location: Robben Island Museum, Cape Town, South Africa

The Robben Island Museum (RIM) is seeking a dedicated Research Assistant to join its Heritage & Research Department. This role is on a 12-month contract basis. The main purpose of the position is to carry out research on Robben Island’s history and its broader context. You will also share your research findings through seminars, conferences, publications, and by supporting the senior researcher on various projects.

Duties and Responsibilities

In this role, you will be responsible for a wide range of tasks to support the museum’s research efforts. These include:

• Developing an analytical framework for research projects.
• Gathering relevant information from various sources.
• Organizing and facilitating site visits and reference group meetings.
• Conducting interviews with former political prisoners.
• Identifying and analyzing materials and information from relevant archives.
• Performing site-based research on location.
• Liaising and collaborating with external organizations.
• Maintaining and evaluating research databases.
• Producing documentation of research findings and ensuring all data is properly recorded.
• Making research accessible to the museum’s team and visitors.
• Presenting papers at conferences and seminars.
• Publishing research information in academic journals.
• Conducting workshops with RIM staff to share new information and gather additional insights.
• Assisting staff during exhibitions and public events.
• Responding to information requests from various sources, including the public and researchers.
• Reviewing and providing comments on brochures, booklets, and other museum materials.
• Logging video materials for archival purposes.
• Translating and transcribing information as needed.
• Checking and editing transcripts for accuracy.

Requirements and Experience

To be considered for this position, candidates must meet the following requirements:

• A Diploma in Social Studies, History, Archaeology, Architecture, or a related qualification. A Bachelor’s degree will be an advantage.
• At least 2 years of experience as a Researcher or Research Assistant.
• Fluency in at least 2 official South African languages.
• Proficiency in Microsoft Office suite (Word, Excel, PowerPoint, etc.).
• A broad understanding of South Africa’s political history.
• Experience in qualitative research methods.

Core Competencies

The ideal candidate will demonstrate the following skills and qualities:

• Excellent written and oral communication skills.
• Strong strategic, conceptual, and analytical abilities.
• Guiding principles aligned with cultural sensitivity and commitment to RIM’s mandate.
• Analytical skills and attention to detail.
• Strategic thinking and results-oriented approach.
• Commitment to excellence in all tasks.
• Research writing skills.
• Interpersonal skills and the ability to work within teams.
• Reasoning skills and leadership potential.
• Communication skills (both verbal and written).
• Self-management and emotional intelligence.
• A strong ethical approach to work.

Additional Information

• Equity Statement: Preference will be given to suitably qualified applicants in line with the Robben Island Museum Employment Equity Plan.
• How to Apply: Forward a detailed CV with contactable referees and a copy of your ID to [email protected]. Use the subject line: “Research Assistant 11/2025”. Applications must be submitted no later than 09 November 2025 at 16:00. Late submissions will not be considered.
• Note: If you do not hear from us within 30 days of the closing date, please consider your application as unsuccessful.
• Privacy Notice: By submitting your CV or application for this position, you grant RIM permission to use your personal information in line with the Protection of Personal Information Act No. 4 of 2013 and its 2021 amendments.
• Candidates who previously applied for this position do not need to re-apply.

Important Notice: Please note that RIM is currently undergoing an Organizational Review, which may impact the advertised position.

We encourage all eligible candidates to apply and wish you success in your application process.