Job Title: Researcher – Evangelical Sociopolitical Dynamics in Africa
Location: Remote | South Africa preferred | Broader African research exposure advantageous
Type: Project-Based / Consultancy 1 month Assignment
About the Opportunity
A confidential international advisory assignment is seeking a highly qualified Researcher to undertake an in-depth remote research project focused on religious dynamics in Africa, with a particular emphasis on South Africa.
This opportunity is suited to a researcher with doctoral-level academic depth and a strong publication-backed research profile. The work will focus on African evangelical sociopolitical dynamics, specifically how evangelical organisations engage with legal frameworks, informal structures of influence, and the evolving digital media landscape.
This is a remote-based assignment, ideal for an experienced researcher who is able to work independently, manage complex subject matter, and deliver high-quality written analysis within agreed timelines.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
- Conducting in-depth research into evangelical communities in South Africa and, where relevant, the broader African context
- Analysing how evangelical organisations navigate formal legal and regulatory environments
- Examining informal power structures, influence networks, and sociopolitical dynamics
- Assessing the role of digital media, online discourse, and communications platforms in shaping religious engagement and influence
- Producing rigorous, well-structured, evidence-based written analysis
- Identifying key themes, emerging patterns, and strategic insights relevant to the research brief
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- A Doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) in Philosophy, Political Science, Sociology, Religious Studies, African Studies, Public Policy, Anthropology, or a closely related discipline
- A strong record of published academic articles, papers, or recognised research outputs
OR
- Master degree in Philosophy, Political Science, Sociology, Religious Studies, African Studies, Public Policy, Anthropology, or a closely related discipline with a minimum of 1 years’ research experience in a relevant discipline
OR
- Honours degree Philosophy, Political Science, Sociology, Religious Studies, African Studies, Public Policy, Anthropology, or a closely related discipline with a minimum of 2 years’ research experience in a relevant discipline
- Demonstrated research interest in areas relating to religion, politics, society, governance, ideology, ethics, power, or public life
- A strong understanding of African evangelical movements, ideally with exposure to the South African landscape
- Proven ability to conduct high-level academic, qualitative, and analytical research
- Exceptional writing, critical thinking, and synthesis capability
- The ability to work effectively in a remote and independent capacity
- Own laptop and access to reliable WiFi / internet connectivity
- The maturity and discretion to work on complex and sensitive subject matter
Highly Advantageous
- Research exposure across multiple African countries
- Academic or applied work engaging religion and society in Africa
- Familiarity with governance, legal frameworks, and public discourse
- Insight into digital media ecosystems and their role in shaping social and religious narratives
Ideal Candidate Profile
This role would suit a researcher who brings:
- strong academic and analytical grounding
- a credible publication record
- the ability to interpret complex religious and sociopolitical issues with nuance
- a thoughtful understanding of African contexts and social realities
- the discipline to deliver independently in a remote working environment
Application Requirements
Interested candidates should submit the below to Ju**@*******ch.com
- a detailed CV
- a short summary of relevant research experience
- a list of published articles, papers, or research outputs
- examples of written work, where appropriate