Research

Problem-solving research with relevance and impact

Building knowledge through research

Behind every Unisa researcher is a network of support

Research is not only about making discoveries and finding answers to problems. It is also about successfully securing grant funding, applying for rating, navigating ethical clearance, practising the latest research methodologies, establishing research profile, communicating findings to fellow scholars and the public alike, developing supervisory skills, displaying the highest standards of research ethics and integrity, and commercialising inventions.

In short, research is complex and sophisticated, which is why university researchers require the support of research management professionals and administrators who understand the research environment inside out.

At Unisa, these research support and capacity-building professionals are housed within the Research, Postgraduate Studies, Innovation, and Commercialisation portfolio.

They provide a full range of research management and support services, which include grant management, research integrity services, research skills development, technology transfer and commercialisation services, library and information services, scholarly publishing opportunities and postgraduate academic training.

Attesting to the high quality of research support at Unisa are the professional qualifications or accreditation that the portfolio’s staff members hold from organisations such as the International Professional Recognition Council (IPRC) and the Research Ethics Committee Association of Southern Africa (REASA).

The Unisa Research Impact Report is an annual publication by the Department of Research, Innovation and Commercialisation reflecting the institution's alignment with its Strategic Plan 2021-2025. Read the 2024 Unisa Research Impact Report which offers a rigorous analysis of global and national ranking systems that evaluate and benchmark Unisa's research performance. 

Last modified: 2025/02/07