Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR)

The Council for Scientific and Industrial Research (CSIR) is a world-class African research and development organisation that undertakes directed, multidisciplinary research and technological innovation that contributes to improving the quality of life of South Africans. The Smart Places Cluster, within which the CSIR project team is located, conducts applied research which supports the prudent use of natural resources in support of South Africa’s national development agenda. 

The project team is based in the Integrated Water Analytics and Solutions Group within the Smart Places Cluster. The Group adopts a multidisciplinary approach to addressing research problems, which combines natural science, social science and technological innovation. Nikki Funke’s research emphasis lies on conducting policy and institutional analyses, with a particular focus on understanding and strengthening the science-policy interface. Karen Nortje specialises in social analyses, including gender and identify impact analyses, adaptive capacity and sustainable livelihoods and ecosystem services. Both team members have a considerable interest and experience in community engagement and stakeholder participation. This expertise will enable the CSIR team in making valuable contributions to the deliverables of WP4 and 6, particularly from a South African and African perspective, while also taking into account HABITABLE’s transversal focus on stakeholder engagement and gender and power dynamics.