Iconic Open University, a technology-driven open and distance learning institution licensed by the National Universities Commission, has announced the creation of three specialised research centres across Northern Nigeria and opened applications for leadership and research positions.
The recruitment exercise is being coordinated by the University’s Directorate of Research, Innovation, and The Impossible (DRII), which is seeking qualified researchers to oversee the take-off and operations of the centres located in Kano, Sokoto and Zamfara States.
The centres are intended to strengthen the connection between academic research and practical socio-economic development.
The newly established centres are the Centre for Agriculture and Mineral Value Research and Development in Gusau, Zamfara State; the Centre for Industrial Renewal Research and Development in Kano, Kano State; and the Centre for Public and Community Health Research and Development in Sokoto, Sokoto State.
According to the University’s prospectus, Iconic Open University operates with a clear mission: “to integrate learning and research through an open system that leverages technology in line with the global best practice of tertiary education”.
The institution said its values of Excellence, Professionalism, Productivity, Innovation, Leadership and Responsibility guide its efforts to address national, continental and global challenges through research and innovation.
The DRII, which is driving the initiative, stated that it works with a vision to “brain child innovation and research and make what is impossible possible within and outside the university to contribute towards societal development and address global challenges”.
The University announced vacancies for Research Coordinator, Research Associate and Research Assistant in each of the three centres.
It explained that Research Coordinators will supervise administration, research planning, budgeting, stakeholder engagement and overall strategic direction, while Research Associates will handle data collection, analysis, literature review and report writing. Research Assistants will provide administrative, documentation and fieldwork support.
The positions are contract-based, full-time and physically based at the respective centres. The initial duration is six months, subject to renewal or termination based on performance, with monthly assessments during the probation period.
For the Research Coordinator role, applicants must possess a PhD in disciplines relevant to each centre’s focus area and demonstrate research achievements, project management experience and strong professional networks.
Candidates for Research Associate are required to hold a Master’s degree in a relevant field with proven research and analytical skills, while Research Assistants must have at least a Second Class Upper Bachelor’s degree and a minimum of two years’ experience in research support.
Applicants are expected to submit an application letter, curriculum vitae, a vision statement, copies of credentials, evidence of research experience and recommendation letters from three referees.
Management further directed interested applicants to submit their applications only through the university’s designated online portal, stating that no hard-copy application would be accepted.
The University added that all applications must be completed and submitted on or before 23 August 2026 through the official application platform: https://careers.iconicuniversity.edu.ng/job/iconic-open-university-announces-establishment-of-research-centres-calls-for-recruitment-of-researchers/
Applications are to be addressed to the Registrar, Iconic Open University, for the attention of the Director, Directorate of Research, Innovation, and The Impossible.
The institution added that only shortlisted candidates will be invited for interview and reaffirmed its commitment to equal opportunity regardless of gender, ethnicity or religion.
