Apply Now: Data Science for Social Impact (DSFSI) at the University of Pretoria

Are you passionate about using data science to address real-world social challenges? The Data Science for Social Impact (DSFSI) Research Group at the University of Pretoria is recruiting for the 2027 academic year.

We are looking for Postdoctoral Researchers, PhD, MSc, MITc, and Honours students to join our multidisciplinary team tackling key issues across society through data-driven research and innovation.

📅 2027 Intake Application Cycles

To better support our students’ financial and academic needs, we operate two distinct application phases. Please identify which phase applies to you before applying.

Phase 1: Funding-Focused Applications

📅 Window: 15 May – 30 June 2026

  • Targeted Groups: Postdoctoral Researchers, PhD, and MSc applicants.
  • Who should apply here: This phase is specifically for students who require financial support (fellowships, assistantships, etc.) or those who are currently applying for external funding. This early window ensures sufficient time for funding processes before the 2027 intake.
Phase 2: Program-Specific & Self-Funded Applications

📅 Window: August 2026

  • Targeted Groups: Honours, MITc (entering 2nd year in 2027), and self-funded MSc/PhD students.
  • Who should apply here: Students enrolled in Honours or MITc programs, as well as any MSc or PhD applicants who already have secured funding or are self-funded.

[!IMPORTANT] Note on Self-Funding: If you are a self-funded student, you are welcome to apply in either Phase 1 or Phase 2. However, if you require any form of lab-based financial support, you must apply during Phase 1.

🌍 About DSFSI

DSFSI operates at the intersection of Data Science for Society and Local Language Natural Language Processing (NLP). We strive to:

  • Empower communities and decision-makers through actionable insights.
  • Advance tools and models that support underrepresented African languages.
  • Build technologies and methodologies rooted in local context and global relevance.

🎓 Financial Support

We aim to provide support for as many students as possible through:

  • Fellowships
  • Research Assistantships
  • Other forms of funding, depending on financial need and whether the student is enrolled full-time or part-time.

🚀 How to Apply

For detailed information regarding eligibility, research themes, and the application process, please visit: 👉 Click here to apply