Friday, February 13

    Associate Professor/ Professor and Academic Head of Department (in Public Health) (Job ID: 6169) – (1859)

    The University of the Free State (UFS) is a renowned South African institution committed to excellence, transformation, and innovation. Its Faculty of Health Sciences is at the forefront of research, teaching, and public health advancement. This role provides an exciting leadership opportunity to shape the future of Public Health at UFS and contribute to developing a School of Public Health.

    Job Overview:

    • Job Title: Associate Professor/Professor and Academic Head of Department (Public Health)
    • Company: University of the Free State (UFS)
    • Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State, South Africa
    • Employment Type: Permanent
    • Job ID: 6169
    • Closing Date: 24 June 2025
    • Assumption of Duties: 1 August 2025

    Position Overview:

    This is a senior academic leadership position that combines responsibilities as Head of Department with either an Associate Professor or Professor academic title, depending on qualifications and experience. The appointee will lead the Division of Public Health within the Faculty of Health Sciences, offering strategic direction, academic excellence, research leadership, and community engagement.

    Key Responsibilities:

    • Lead and manage the Division of Public Health in academic, administrative, and financial functions.

    • Drive the development of a visionary strategy to evolve the Division into a School of Public Health, aligning with university goals and global priorities.

    • Oversee and participate in curriculum development, postgraduate teaching, and research in Public Health and research methodology.

    • Build and mentor an effective academic team with international standing.

    • Supervise postgraduate students and promote impactful research publications and conference engagement.

    • Foster partnerships, secure external research/training grants, and engage with national and international public health bodies.

    • Represent the Division at university and faculty management structures.

    Inherent Requirements:

    Associate Professor:

    • PhD in Public Health (NQF Level 10).

    • At least 3 years of research management and leadership experience in higher education.

    • Record of national academic recognition and leadership.

    • Supervision of master’s/doctoral graduates and examination of postgraduate research.

    • Research publication in accredited journals; conference presentations.

    • Experience in curriculum development.

    • Evidence of external funding.

    • Active membership in national scholarly/public health committees or societies.

    • NRF rating or strong potential.

    Professor:

    • All of the above, plus:

    • International recognition for expertise and academic leadership.

    • Chairing/keynote speaking roles at national/international conferences.

    • Membership in international scholarly societies or public health bodies.

    • Evidence of attracting international research/training grants.

    • Existing NRF rating preferred.

    Preferred Experience (Recommendations):

    • At least 5 years in academic research leadership and management.

    • 5 years or more in a higher education teaching environment.

    Required Competencies:

    • Strategic Thinking: Strong planning, innovation, and visionary leadership.

    • Results Orientation: Accountability, high standards, goal-driven.

    • Business Acumen: Understanding of HR, finance, and academic systems; proficiency in MS Office and software tools (e.g., referencing/data analysis tools).

    • Leadership: Ability to inspire, mentor, and manage multidisciplinary teams.

    • Collaboration: Strong interpersonal, negotiation, and relationship-building skills.

    Remuneration & Benefits:

    • Salary: Available on request (commensurate with experience and qualifications)

    • Benefits include:

      • Pension scheme

      • Medical aid

      • Group life insurance

      • Housing allowance

      • Leave entitlements

      • Service bonus

      • Study benefits

    Application Process:

     

    Apply online ONLY at:
    https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll

    Required Application Documents:

    • Detailed CV

    • Certified copies of qualifications (SAQA accreditation if foreign)

    • Copy of ID/passport

    • Proof of employment (letter/contract/service certificate/payslip)

    Enquiries:

    Email:

    Phone:

    • +27 51 401 9810 / 9848 / 9813 / 9814 / 2979

    Employment Equity:

    UFS is a designated employer and supports transformation in line with its Employment Equity Plan. Preference will be given to underrepresented groups, including persons with disabilities. For more details, consult the UFS EE Plan.

    Important Notes:

    • This post was previously advertised under Job ID: 6130. All prior applicants will be considered automatically and do not need to reapply.

    • Only complete applications will be considered.

    • Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.

    • If no response is received within six weeks of the closing date, your application was unfortunately not successful.

    • UFS reserves the right not to fill the post.

    APPLY NOW!

    Also See Available Vacancies at UFS:  Lecturer: UFS (Job ID: 6173) – (1863) |Apply Today

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