Dynamic Director – Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry (Job ID 6176)
The University of the Free State (UFS) is seeking a visionary and dynamic Director to lead the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry (CMBG). This is a leadership role within the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences and is open exclusively to permanent academic staff members at Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, or Professor level within the faculty.
The successful candidate will provide academic, research, strategic, and operational leadership to position the CMBG as a nationally and internationally recognized Centre of Excellence in environmental and mineral-based systems.
JOB OVERVIEW
Job Title: Director (5-year contract with the possibility of reappointment for a further term) (Job ID 6176)
Company: University of the Free State
Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State, South Africa
Employment Type: Contract (5 years, renewable)
Closing Date: 3 July 2025
Responsibilities:
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Provide strategic academic leadership for the Centre for Mineral Biogeochemistry (CMBG).
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Develop and execute operational and research strategies in consultation with the Dean.
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Oversee programme accreditation, teaching quality, and postgraduate supervision up to NQF Level 10.
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Lead curriculum development, marketing of CMBG programmes, and faculty representation.
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Manage staff performance, motivation, recruitment, and development.
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Ensure quality-driven research output and a strong postgraduate research pipeline.
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Handle financial planning, budget management, and compliance with university procedures.
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Build a research identity and grow the national and international visibility of the CMBG.
Qualifications:
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PhD (NQF Level 10) in Natural Sciences.
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Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, or Professor within the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences.
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Proven experience in academic leadership (e.g., Head of Department, Programme Director).
Recommended Experience and Skills:
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Experience managing academic or research centres in mineral-based environmental systems.
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Expertise in environmental geochemistry, land and soil restoration, or Earth systems science.
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Track record of managing large research grants (R2 million+).
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Strong strategic thinking, leadership, and administrative skills.
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Excellent interpersonal skills with the ability to build collaborative networks.
Benefits:
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Leadership role in shaping one of UFS’s key research centres.
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Allowance calculated based on an approved university formula (available upon request).
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Opportunity to influence science policy, research innovation, and postgraduate education.
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Work in a diverse and equity-driven academic environment.
Application Process:
Apply online at the official UFS vacancy portal: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll
Closing Date: 3 July 2025
For enquiries, contact:
📞 051 401 7659 | 📧 Recruit@ufs.ac.za.
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