Opportunities
Browse government tenders, quotations, vacancies and documents across South Africa.
Showing opportunities with a recorded closing date that has not passed. Choose another status to browse historical records.
Researchers and postgraduate students can apply for access to national research infrastructure platforms managed by the National Research Foundation, including facilities at iThemba Laboratories, SAAO, SAEON, SAIAB, and SARAO. These platforms support advanced research in physics, astronomy, environmental science, marine biology, and materials science.
- Who it is for:
- researchers and postgraduate students in South Africa
- How to act on it:
- Apply through the NRF's open calls for researchers and students; follow the application guidelines provided on the NRF website.
Funding is available for honours students in science, engineering, and technology fields supported by the Department of Science and Innovation (DSI) and the NRF. This supports post-secondary education and research training.
- Who it is for:
- South African honours students in science, engineering, and technology
- How to act on it:
- Apply through the official NRF call for applications during the open call window
Financial support is offered to postgraduate students in science and technology disciplines through a joint initiative between the Department of Science and Innovation and the NRF.
- Who it is for:
- South African postgraduate students in science and technology fields
- How to act on it:
- Submit application during the open call period via the NRF website
This programme offers support and funding to Black academics in South Africa to advance their careers through research and innovation. It is aimed at strengthening representation and equity in higher education and research.
- Who it is for:
- Black academics in South African universities and research institutions
- How to act on it:
- Apply via the NRF’s official call for applications during the designated period
This award recognises individuals or organisations that have made outstanding contributions to developing research capacity and advancing transformation in South African research institutions. It is open to those who have demonstrated sustained impact in building research capability, particularly among historically disadvantaged groups.
- Who it is for:
- individuals or organisations in South Africa involved in research capacity development and transformation
- How to act on it:
- Application through the official NRF awards portal as per guidelines provided on the webpage
Researchers in South Africa can apply to be evaluated and rated by the National Research Foundation (NRF) for the year 2026. This rating assesses the quality and impact of their research output and contributes to national recognition and funding opportunities.
- Who it is for:
- South African researchers, academic staff, and individuals affiliated with higher education institutions
- How to act on it:
- Submit an application through the NRF's official website using the provided application portal
The National Research Foundation is highlighting Dr Lindokuhle Dlamini as a young researcher during Youth Month 2024. This is an opportunity to learn about his work and achievements in science and research.
- Who it is for:
- young researchers, students, and members of the public interested in science and innovation
- How to act on it:
- Visit the NRF website to read about Dr Lindokuhle Dlamini's profile and contributions
The u’GOOD Conference 2025 invites youth researchers, young professionals, academics, and stakeholders from the Global South to participate in a global dialogue on advancing youth wellbeing. The event will focus on innovative solutions and leadership roles emerging from the Global South.
- Who it is for:
- youth researchers, young professionals in science and innovation, academics interested in youth development, representatives from the Global South, stakeholders in youth wellbeing initiatives
- How to act on it:
- Visit the official website to register or find details about how to join the conference
An international summit bringing together young scientists from around the world to engage in discussions, networking, and collaborative research on pressing global challenges. The event is organized by the National Research Foundation and aims to foster innovation and scientific advancement.
- Who it is for:
- young scientists globally
- How to act on it:
- Visit the official website to find application details and registration instructions
This opportunity involves the ongoing review and evaluation of honours-level student applications for funding from the National Research Foundation for the 2026 academic year.
- Who it is for:
- honours students applying for NRF funding in 2026
- How to act on it:
- Applicants must submit their applications via the NRF online portal and await processing updates
The u’GOOD Conference 2025 invites researchers, students, youth wellbeing advocates, and professionals from the Global South to participate in a global dialogue on advancing youth wellbeing. The event will highlight leadership roles from the Global South in driving youth-focused research and innovation.
- Who it is for:
- researchers, students, youth wellbeing advocates, academics in the Global South, science and innovation professionals
- How to act on it:
- Visit the official website to register or learn more about participation opportunities.
A digital gallery showcasing images and content from the 2024 NGER (National Growth and Economic Research) Symposium hosted by the National Research Foundation. The gallery provides visual documentation of the event, including presentations, discussions, and participant interactions.
- Who it is for:
- researchers, students, science communicators, public audiences interested in national research initiatives
- How to act on it:
- Visit the official webpage to view the gallery online