The William Humphreys Art Gallery (WHAG) invites applications for the Researcher vacancy as advertised.

Remuneration:

Twenty-four months contract. An all-inclusive package of R434 174 per annum. Membership of the Museums Pension Fund is mandatory.

Purpose of the Position:

The Researcher is responsible for developing, coordinating, and implementing research initiatives that support the William Humphreys Art Gallery’s collections, exhibitions, publications, educational programmes, public engagement activities and strategic objectives. The incumbent will contribute to the generation, preservation and dissemination of knowledge relating to South African, African and international visual arts, heritage and museum practices.

Responsibilities:               

• Conduct collection, provenance, artist, exhibition and policy-related research.
• Contribute to the development of a research culture within WHAG
• Produce and present research findings to academic, professional and public audiences.
• Identify collection gaps and opportunities for collection growth and transformation.
• Conduct research into collection management and conservation practices.
• Provide evidence-based policy recommendations on acquisitions, collection management, conservation and exhibitions.
• Develop educational and public-facing research resources.
• Monitor developments in museum, heritage, and visual arts practice and advise management on emerging trends, standards, and best practices.
• Build and maintain strategic partnerships with artists, academics, research bodies, museums and heritage institutions.
• Represent WHAG in professional research forums and collaborative projects.
• Contribute to institutional reporting and strategic objectives.
• Maintain accurate and comprehensive research records, databases, and documentation.
• Supervise research interns.
• Support the achievement of WHAG’s strategic objectives through research excellence and knowledge generation.
• Perform other research-related duties and special projects as reasonably assigned by the Chief Curator or Director.

Requirements:

• A master’s degree in Art History.
• Track record in visual art research and publishing.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills.
• Basic computer and software skills.
• Valid driver’s licence will be advantageous.
• Portfolio of work demonstrating research, writing and knowledge dissemination capabilities. The portfolio should include:
  • A minimum of one (1) example of published research outputs, which may include research reports, academic thesis/dissertation, journal articles, book chapters, collection research, provenance studies or policy papers.
  • At least two (2) examples of popular writing intended for public audiences, such as exhibition texts, museum publications, magazine or newspaper articles, blogs or online content.
  • A list of scholarly publications, conference papers, lectures, seminars and workshops presented (where applicable).
  • Details of research projects undertaken, including the applicant’s role and key contributions.

 Personal Attributes:

The ideal candidate for the Researcher role should exhibit a strong set of personal attitudes including integrity, leadership, initiative, stress tolerance, and a commitment to achievement. They should possess excellent communication skills, both interpersonal and community-wide, along with the ability to network and represent the institution externally. The candidate should strike a balance between visionary thinking and attention to detail, while fostering teamwork and demonstrating exceptional management, organizational, and operational capabilities. Proficiency in handling multiple priorities and making sound decisions through effective planning are essential attributes for this role.

Recruitment Details:

Short-listed candidates will be subjected to a comprehensive selection process. Submit a CV with three references, copies of qualifications, portfolio of work, and a copy of ID.

To apply, please follow the link and complete the online application form: https://forms.gle/mqdAAWgVWHMfjT3L8

The closing date for applications is 20 July 2026.

For any enquiries contact Sam at 0538311725 or sam@whag.co.za.

The William Humphreys Art Gallery is an equal opportunity employer and committed to employment equity and redress. The right not to make an appointment is reserved. If applicants have not been contacted within four weeks of the closing date, applications should be considered unsuccessful.