Data Analyst

Introduction

The NRF is a well-established organisation that is highly networked within the knowledge system, nationally and internationally. It is the principal organisation responsible for promoting the national research enterprise and is the primary public funder of postgraduate students and researchers and provider of research infrastructure in the country. It has well-developed, best practice research evaluation and support systems.

Position: Data Analyst Business Unit: Digital Transformation Location: Pretoria, Gauteng

Position Details

Position Summary: In fulfilling the NRF Digital Transformation objectives of fostering a culture of evidence-led decision making, as well as building digital skills and capacity.

Key Responsibilities: Acquire data or access to data from primary or secondary data sources required to populate the NRF’s Data Ecosystem. Develop and implement PowerBI reports and dashboards, databases, as well as data collection systems where required source data that are not yet curated. Perform quality assurance processes on data including data clean-up on existing data and systems. Collaborate with the stakeholders requiring analytics and develop a scope of work for the required analysis. Perform scheduled and Ad Hoc descriptive, diagnostic, predictive and prescriptive analysis on data emanating from the NRF's internal databases as well as external databases. Apply statistical methods to analyse data as well as the generation of narrative reports, tables and graphic representations. Provide data required for the NRF s statutory reporting as required. This includes the development and maintenance of standard Power BI reporting. Identify and assist with the scoping and development of recurring analysis requirements that can potentially be included in the NRF's business intelligence systems. Identify data gaps and participate in the definition and scoping of new processes or improvements to current business processes. Actively participate in the NRF's drive to implement the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence

Requirements

Qualification: A Bachelor’s Degree in Statistics and/or Information science, Computer Science or related (NQF 7). At least 3years’ experience in a data intensive environment, including the development, implementation of reporting and analysis.

Experience: Understanding of the various segments National System of Innovation (NSI). Knowledge of the South African Higher Education System. Knowledge of Microsoft SQL databases. Knowledge of PowerBI report development Experience in the responsible use of Artificial Intelligence Knowledge of reporting packages such as Advanced Microsoft Excel including pivot tables, and power queries, SPSS and R. Knowledge of various types of data modelling including linear and logistic regression. Knowledge of Citation databases and Research Analysis tools e.g. Scopus; SciVal; Web of Science; InCites

Knowledge, Skills and Abilities: Project management skills. Stakeholder Management Logical and critical thinking Good interpersonal skills. Strong problem-solving skills Excellent verbal and written communication Presentation capabilities Data collection, analysis, and presentation Strong quantitative and qualitative analytical capabilities.

How to Apply

Closing Date: Wednesday, 28 Oct 2026

The NRF website provides more details on the initiatives and activities. Applicants should submit a comprehensive CV by registering and apply online through the NRF Recruitment and Selection Portal. Applications should be accompanied by a letter of motivation indicating the applicant's suitability for the position. The names and contact details of at least three referees should be provided. Contact Information

Recruitment Support: peopleandculture@nrf.ac.za