Part of the Faculty’s work is to undertake research to generate new knowledge and to challenge old ideas. The University has a high number of top researchers who are recognised internationally and our Faculty is no exception to this rule. We have 79 researchers rated by the National Research Foundation (NRF), of whom 25 are B-rated researchers, and one is an A-rated researcher. A-rated researchers are internationally recognised by their peers as having made a substantial and significant contribution through their research.

We also have four NRF SARChI chairs funded by the national Department of Science and Innovation. These research chairs focus on studies in transformation and historical trauma; gender politics; the sociology of land, the environment and sustainable development; and science communication. In addition, one of the University’s seven centres of excellence, the DSI-NRF Centre of Excellence in Scientometrics and Science, Technology and Innovation Policy, can be found in our Faculty.

Our Faculty also hosts 15 research and service centres. These centres frequently work across the boundaries of disciplinary groups and departments. Furthermore we have a Graduate School that creates a supportive space in which our postgraduate students can undertake and complete their research. It facilitates and administers the awarding of international postgraduate Master’s and doctoral scholarships within the Faculty.