Dear Participant

You are invited to participate in a doctoral research study conducted by Mrs Bianca Arendse, PhD Candidate in the Section of Industrial-Organisational Psychology at the University of Cape Town. This study explores the mental well-being, burnout, and perceptions of organisational justice among emerging academics in South African higher education institutions, with the aim of understanding how individual, relational, and institutional factors shape academics’ work experiences, capabilities, and functioning.

Who Can Participate?

You may participate if you:

·       An emerging academic staff member with at least one year and no more than five years of experience in academia.

• Are currently employed at a South African higher education institution.

What Participation Involves

The study includes two phases:

Phase 1: Interview

• A semi-structured interview (approximately 60–90 minutes)

• Conducted online or in person

Phase 2: Online Questionnaire

• An anonymous survey (approximately 20–25 minutes)

• Completed online at a time convenient to you

You may participate in one or both phases.

Risks and Support

The study poses minimal risk; however, some participants may experience mild emotional discomfort when reflecting on their work experiences. If distress occurs during or after participation, you will be encouraged to seek support from:

• South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG): (011) 234 4837

• Cipla 24-Hour Mental Health Helpline: 0800 456 789 / 076 882 2775

Relevant support resources will be provided to all participants.

Benefits of the Study

There are no direct personal benefits to participation. However, the study may contribute to improved understanding of emerging academics’ work experiences and inform institutional policies and practices related to well-being, organisational justice, career development, and supportive academic environments.

Voluntary Participation and Withdrawal

Participation is entirely voluntary. You may decline to answer any question, withdraw at any time, or discontinue participation without penalty or negative consequences.

Confidentiality and Data Protection

• All information will be treated as strictly confidential.

• Data will be anonymised and reported in aggregated or thematic form only.

• No individual or institution will be identifiable in any reports or publications.

• Data will be securely stored in accordance with ethical and legal requirements (including POPIA).

Dissemination of Findings

Findings from this study will be used for doctoral research purposes and may be published in academic journals or presented at conferences. A summary of findings may be shared with participating institutions upon request. No identifying information will be disclosed.

We hope this invitation has sparked your interest, and we would greatly appreciate it if you would register your interest in participating by completing this short form:
[online registration form link]

Once you have registered, you will receive a follow-up email with additional details, including a link to schedule an interview (if applicable) and access to the study documents (Participant Information Sheet and Consent Form).

If you have any questions, please do not hesitate to contact me directly.

With sincere appreciation,

Mrs Bianca Arendse
PhD Candidate: Industrial and Organisational Psychology

School of Management Studies
University of Cape Town
Email: bianca.arendse@uct.ac.za