Job Description

Editors/Writers - PretoriaFull job descriptionJob Advert SummaryIn delivering social science that makes a difference, the Research Divisions, Units, Institutes and Centres of the Human Sciences Research Council (HSRC) undertake policy-oriented research from its offices in Pretoria, Cape Town, and Pietermaritzburg. Our public purpose mandate is set out in the Human Sciences Research Council Act of 2008.The Equitable Education and Economies (EEE) division undertakes research to transform educational outcomes and increase economic participation. It recognises that education and the economy have long been linked and conducts research to understand educational performance and improve learning outcomes, and to interrogate social, spatial and structural obstacles to economic participation.EEE has a large and vibrant research programme with over 60 experienced and emerging researchers working on methodological and transformative research. Current research in EEE includes young people and the future of work; undoing spatial divides in access to education and economies; the impact of digitalisation on education and the economy; the innovation needed to ensure wider participation in the economy and allow for greater services and support for food security; the role of the informal sector in generating livelihoods, land, housing and economic development; and the transformation of higher education including a wider role for Technical Vocational Education and Training colleges (TVETs).The EEE research division is looking to appoint a panel of freelance Editors/Writers to support our research outputs. This panel will provide high-quality editorial and writing services for a variety of projects, including client reports, newspaper articles, and book chapters.Editors/WritersRef. No: EEE-Editors 10/2024 Minimum RequirementsCandidates are expected to have extensive writing experience, preferably with exposure to scientific publications and a strong ability to meet tight deadlines. Additional requirements include:A masters degree in Language, Journalism, Media and Communication or extensive experience in academic writing.Experience working in the social sciences and humanities is preferred.At least 5 years relevant professional experience as an editor/writer of high-quality English language publications.At least 3 years of experience in academic editing.Proficient experience in Microsoft environment including the use of OneDrive and academic software such as RefWorks.Proven experience in editing for scientific publications would be advantageous.Demonstrable writing skills.Some experience with relevant software (e.g. Adobe In Design and Photoshop) would be an advantage;Experience in development of infographic summaries of research findings would be an added advantage.Ability to provide guidance on publications for different audiences.High personal motivation, self-management, and detail-orientation.Temperament to cope with a pressurised, deadline driven work environmentDuties and ResponsibilitiesThe scope of work and expectations of the Editor/Writer will include the following:Editorial and writing services will include but is not limited to:Content editing: Ensure the final product is professionally written, accurate and coherent.Language Editing: Assess drafts for linguistic quality, including grammar, syntax, and consistent use of terminology and style; correct errors and provide a certificate attesting to the language edit if required.Academic Editing: Edit theses for Masters and PhD candidates, ensuring clarity and scholarly quality.Technical Editing: Ensure consistency in font, size, and formatting according to specified requirements.Report and Publication Formatting: Format reports and publications according to guidelines.Proofreading: Check for typos, spelling errors, formatting inconsistencies, and ensure citations and figures are accurate.Summarizing: Write executive summaries of full-length reports.Scientific Short Pieces: Write concise articles for public media based on published journal articles.Rapporteuring: Take detailed notes during workshops and meetings, producing comprehensive or summarized reports.Infographic Development: Create infographic materials that visually represent the content of reports and publications.Read and understand the requirements of the writing/editing assignment paying special attention to the style and format of the intended user of the output (e.g. client report, journal article, dissertation, book chapter or workshop reports).Copy-edit and proofread reports/draft papers submitted to ensure editorial quality standards for publication.Liaise with authors to address any editorial amendments;Applications should include:A cover letter of motivation detailing your suitability for the position.A detailed CV with contact details of 3 references.Proof of qualifications.Two examples of scientific, popular and other forms of editing and writing assignments undertaken.Complete and submit table below for your rates. These costs will be fixed for the duration of the contract and must include all relevant taxes.The HSRC will only consider applications that comply with the above requirements.Please register and submit your application on-line at https://hsrc.erecruit.co/Application Instructions:Candidates can make use of their mobile devices or any browser to register on the Neptune recruitment site, as well as to make application for available vacancies;Candidates will be prompted to upload their documents;Attachments must be less than 1MB (here is an on-screen option to resize);The Neptune system will only allow you to upload 1 attachment. Please ensure that all documents are merged into 1 file before uploading.Enquiries about the nature of the position, and NOT applications, may be directed to:Gray van der Bergh - gvdbergh@hsrc.ac.zaFor further information about the HSRC or the post, please consult our website www.hsrc.ac.za.The HSRC is committed to accelerating the improvement in the proportion of its staff complement who are SA Citizens, black, female or disabled.Closing date: 28 October 2024. We encourage applicants to submit applications prior to this date. Applicants who have not been contacted within eight weeks should assume that their application has been unsuccessful. Only applicants who are interviewed will be advised of the outcome of their applications.The HSRC reserves the right not to make an appointment.APPLICATIONS FROM RECRUITMENT AGENCIES WILL NOT BE ACCEPTED

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