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.
Information on the conditions and requirements that applicants must meet to be eligible for multiple grants from the NRF.
- Who it is for:
- researchers and students applying for multiple grants
- How to act on it:
- Review the criteria on the NRF website before applying
This is a process for evaluating and processing applications submitted by honours students for funding under the NRF’s honours funding schemes.
- Who it is for:
- honours students who have applied for NRF funding
- How to act on it:
- Wait for updates from the NRF after submission; no direct action required beyond initial application
The National Research Foundation is offering access to its network of national research infrastructure platforms, including iThemba Laboratories, SAAO, SAEON, SAIAB, and SARAO. Researchers, postgraduate students, and academic institutions can apply to use these facilities for scientific research and innovation.
- Who it is for:
- researchers, postgraduate students, academic institutions in South Africa
- How to act on it:
- Apply via the NRF's online portal or through designated application channels for access to national research facilities
This award is granted to early career researchers who have demonstrated exceptional research excellence in their field. Dr Itumeleng Monageng has been selected as the recipient of this award for the year 2025.
- Who it is for:
- early career researchers in South Africa
- How to act on it:
- No application required; the recipient was selected by the National Research Foundation based on merit.
This is a public list of researchers who have been rated as P (Professional) by the National Research Foundation in 2021. The rating reflects their ongoing contribution to research and innovation in South Africa. This list is available for public viewing and serves as recognition of their research standing.
- Who it is for:
- researchers evaluated by the NRF, academic institutions, and members of the public interested in research excellence
- How to act on it:
- View the list online via the NRF website
The National Research Foundation is featuring Noxolo Felicia Vilakazi as a highlight of Youth Month 2026. This recognition celebrates her contributions to science and research as a young South African scholar.
- Who it is for:
- young South African researchers and students
- How to act on it:
- Visit the NRF website to view the profile of Noxolo Felicia Vilakazi
The National Research Foundation is hosting an event during Youth Month 2023 featuring Lindiwe Mahlangu. The event aims to engage young people and highlight the importance of science, research, and innovation in addressing socio-economic challenges in South Africa.
- Who it is for:
- young people in South Africa, researchers, students, and members of the public interested in science and innovation
- How to act on it:
- Visit the NRF website to view details about the event
The National Research Foundation is hosting a Youth Month event in 2024 featuring Dr Lindokuhle Dlamini as a guest speaker. The event aims to inspire young South Africans to engage with science, research, and innovation.
- Who it is for:
- young South Africans interested in research and innovation, students, and early-career researchers
- How to act on it:
- Attend the event through the NRF's official website or associated platforms
The National Research Foundation has announced the successful applicants for the 2025 DSTI-NRF Freestanding and Innovation Postdoctoral Fellowships. These fellowships are awarded to outstanding postdoctoral researchers in South Africa who are conducting innovative and impactful research in science, engineering, and technology. Selected candidates will receive financial support to further their research and contribute to national development through scientific advancement.
- Who it is for:
- South African postdoctoral researchers with PhDs or equivalent qualifications in science, engineering, or innovation fields
- How to act on it:
- No action required; this is an announcement of results, not an application opportunity.
This programme supports Black academics in South Africa through funding and capacity-building opportunities. It aims to advance equity and inclusion in higher education and research by enabling qualified individuals to pursue academic careers.
- Who it is for:
- Black academics in South Africa
- How to act on it:
- Apply through the official NRF application portal during open call periods
This funding opportunity provides financial support to postgraduate students in South Africa who are pursuing research in science, engineering, technology, and related fields. It is intended to strengthen the country’s research capacity by supporting future researchers.
- Who it is for:
- postgraduate students in South Africa
- How to act on it:
- Submit an application via the NRF online portal during the open call period
This funding supports students enrolled in honours programmes at South African universities who are conducting research in science, engineering, and technology. It helps build foundational research skills and supports early-career researchers.
- Who it is for:
- honours students in South Africa
- How to act on it:
- Apply through the NRF’s official application system when the call is open