Job Vacancies at The Reach Trust

Junior Research Analyst

Social Studies and Data Management in Education Technology

Location: Stellenbosch

Our growing tech-for-good organisation is looking for a Junior Researcher to join the team.

We are a dynamic and innovative team working at the intersection of education and technology with a special focus on Early Childhood Development (ECD). Our mission is to empower ECD centres, educators, and communities with data-driven solutions that improve lives.

Our small, yet growing team dreams big and thinks global. At the same time, we keep our finger on the pulse of the unique conditions and opportunities technology presents for millions in Southern Africa. We are deeply passionate about the impact we can have on social and economic change, and everyone on the team is closely involved in everything we do to achieve this.

The Role
We are seeking a motivated and curious Junior Researcher to join our team. This role is ideal for a recent graduate in Social Studies, Sociology, Education, or a related field who is passionate about leveraging research and data to make a real-world impact. You will work closely with our tech and research teams to manage data, generate insightful reports, and contribute to impactful papers and studies that shape the future of education.

You should be able to work independently and in a team, have good written and oral communication skills, and be passionate about the data and the organisation's goals.

Responsibilities and duties:
● Liaise with the project manager and partners to design an efficient data collection solution that meets the project requirements.
● Assist in managing and analysing data from ECD centres, ensuring accuracy and reliability.
● Generate regular and ad-hoc reports to support decision-making across the organisation.
● Work with the onboarding team to ensure all relevant on-the-ground data is captured.
● Collaborate with cross-functional teams to design and innovate new research methodologies and frameworks.
● Contribute to writing, editing, and publishing papers, articles, and studies related to ECD and technology.
● Identify emerging trends and gaps in the ECD landscape to propose innovative research topics.
● Support the development and improvement of data collection tools and processes.
● Assist in maintaining compliance with ethical standards and best practices for research and data handling.

Qualifications and skills:
● A recently completed degree in Social Studies, Sociology, Education, or a related field.
● Strong analytical skills and familiarity with data management tools (e.g., Excel, Google Sheets, or other data visualisation tools).
● Interest in Early Childhood Development and a passion for using technology to create social impact.
● Excellent writing and communication skills, with a flair for presenting complex ideas in clear and accessible ways.
● Ability to collaborate within a multidisciplinary team and adapt to a fast-paced, innovative environment.
● Basic understanding of research methodologies and ethical considerations in social research.
● MySQL skills are essential (but may be developed on the job if have a willingness to learn).

Personal attributes:
● Goal-orientated
● Strong time management skills
● Be able to work independently
● Attention to detail
● Strong team player
● Good verbal and written communication skills
● Willingness to learn

Why join us?
● Work on meaningful projects that make a tangible difference in the lives of children and educators.
● Gain hands-on experience in research, data management, and publishing.
● Be part of an innovative and supportive team that values growth and learning.
● Flexible working arrangements to support work-life balance.
● Salary based on your knowledge and skills, rather than on your experience.
● The potential to be part of and learn from the entire decision-making process for each project - from the initial concept to the continued maintenance after implementation.

Application Process:
To apply, please submit your CV, a cover letter outlining your interest in the role, and any relevant writing samples or research projects to info@thereachtrust.org.
Join us in shaping the future of education through research and technology!