Join us as a postdoctoral fellow in 2028

The Department of Economics at Stellenbosch University invites applications from outstanding early-career economists for up to two three-year postdoctoral fellowships. We seek scholars whose research helps explain the drivers of long-run economic growth, with implications for South Africa and the wider African continent.

These fellowships are built around a single organising question: what makes economies grow? We welcome proposals across the subfields that speak to that question, including but not limited to: economic history, economics of innovation, public economics, labour economics, applied microeconomics, political economy, behavioural economics, and industrial organisation.

Who we are looking for
- A PhD in Economics, awarded or with all requirements completed by the start date.
- An active research agenda and clear potential to publish in leading international journals.
- A research focus on South Africa or Africa is a strong advantage.
- An interest in collaboration, and in communicating findings to academic, policy and public audiences.

What we offer
- A fellowship of up to three years, renewable annually subject to satisfactory progress.
- A competitive stipend, tax-free under South African rules for postdoctoral fellowships.
- A vibrant research environment spanning economic history, growth and policy.
- Support to build an independent research career, present internationally, and apply for grants.

How to apply
Apply online via EconJobMarket by 8 January 2027. Shortlisted candidates will be interviewed in January 2027, for a start between March and July 2027. Please upload: a curriculum vitae, with proof of qualification or expected date of PhD completion; a cover letter indicating your primary research theme and proposed project; a job market paper or writing sample; and three confidential letters of reference, including your supervisor's.

Stellenbosch University reserves the right not to make an appointment if suitable candidates do not apply.