Associate Professor- University of the Free State (5-Years)
- Position: Associate Professor/Professor (Permanent) and Head of School (5-Year Contract, renewable for a second term)
- Institution: University of the Free State
- Faculty: Faculty of Health Sciences
- School: School of Nursing
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus
- Closing Date: 19 June 2026
- Employment Type: Permanent academic appointment with a fixed-term leadership appointment as Head of School
Position Purpose
The successful candidate will provide strategic, academic, and operational leadership to the School of Nursing while contributing as an Associate Professor or Professor. The role focuses on advancing teaching excellence, research, innovation, community engagement, transformation, and financial sustainability within the School.
Key Responsibilities
Academic Leadership
- Lead and manage the School of Nursing’s academic activities.
- Promote excellence in teaching, learning, research, and community engagement.
- Foster innovation in nursing education through simulation, technology, and modern teaching practices.
- Ensure curriculum development and review aligns with South African Nursing Council (SANC) and Council on Higher Education (CHE) requirements.
Strategic Management
- Participate in the leadership and management of the Faculty of Health Sciences.
- Develop and implement strategic plans for the School.
- Drive transformation and institutional goals.
- Create an environment that supports staff development, innovation, and growth.
Research and Scholarship
- Strengthen the School’s research profile.
- Supervise master’s and doctoral students.
- Promote scholarly outputs and research excellence.
- Build national and international research collaborations.
- Secure external research funding and third-stream income.
Professional and Industry Leadership
- Represent the School in national, regional, and international nursing and healthcare forums.
- Contribute to professional nursing development and policy initiatives.
- Enhance the reputation and visibility of the School of Nursing.
Financial and Operational Management
- Manage the School’s day-to-day operations.
- Oversee financial planning and resource allocation.
- Identify and pursue income-generation opportunities.
- Ensure effective governance and compliance with university and regulatory requirements.
Minimum Requirements
Associate Professor Level
Applicants must possess:
- PhD (NQF Level 10) in Nursing.
- Registration with the South African Nursing Council (SANC) as a Clinical Nurse and Midwife.
- SANC-recognised qualification in Nursing Education.
- SANC-recognised qualification in Nursing Administration/Management.
- Proven leadership experience in nursing.
- At least 7 years’ Higher Education experience.
- At least 5 years’ academic management experience.
- Proven master’s and PhD supervision record.
- Strong publication record in accredited journals.
- Active national and international collaborations.
- Successful external funding acquisition.
- Recognition as a scholar through keynote or plenary presentations.
- Demonstrated academic leadership.
Professor Level
Applicants must possess:
- PhD (NQF Level 10) in Nursing.
- Registration with SANC as a Clinical Nurse and Midwife.
- SANC-recognised qualifications in:
- Nursing Education
- Nursing Administration/Management
- Proven leadership experience in nursing.
- At least 10 years’ Higher Education experience.
- At least 5 years’ academic management experience.
- Extensive postgraduate supervision experience.
- Significant publication record.
- Strong national and international scholarly collaborations.
- Proven success in securing substantial external funding.
- National or international recognition as a nursing scholar or clinical specialist.
- Strong record of academic and professional leadership.
Recommended Qualifications and Experience
Preference will be given to candidates with:
- An NRF rating or NRF rating application.
- Experience in project management.
- Experience in financial management.
Key Competencies
Results Orientation
- Ability to achieve ambitious goals.
- Adaptability and resilience in changing environments.
Strategic Thinking
- Ability to implement the School’s vision and mission.
- Capacity to drive innovation and growth.
Business Acumen
- Strong understanding of higher education regulations and policies.
- Ability to interpret and implement SANC, CHE, and university requirements.
- Advanced MS Office skills.
Leadership
- Commitment to transformation and social justice.
- Strong decision-making and people-management skills.
- Ability to motivate and inspire staff.
Relationship Building
- Ability to develop strong partnerships with stakeholders.
- Excellent interpersonal, networking, and communication skills.