Deputy-Dean: Research, Internationalisation and Postgraduate Studies x1
Job Details
- Position: Deputy-Dean: Research, Internationalisation and Postgraduate Studies
- Job ID: 6569
- Organisation: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Faculty: Faculty of Education
- Department/Office: Office of the Dean: Faculty of Education
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Bloemfontein, Free State
- Contract: Five-year fixed-term contract
- Possibility of Reappointment: Yes, for a further term
- Occupational Level: Middle Management
- Assumption of Duty: 1 October 2026 or as mutually agreed
- Closing Date: 21 August 2026
- Salary: Available on request and commensurate with the responsibilities of the position
Job Overview
The University of the Free State is seeking an experienced academic leader to serve as Deputy-Dean: Research, Internationalisation and Postgraduate Studies in the Faculty of Education.
The successful candidate will provide strategic and academic leadership in research, innovation, internationalisation and postgraduate studies, while working closely with the Dean to advance the Faculty’s strategic mission.
The role combines academic responsibilities with senior leadership duties, including postgraduate programme quality assurance, research development, international collaboration, research funding, third-stream income generation and the development of research partnerships.
Key Responsibilities
The Deputy-Dean will be responsible for:
Teaching & Academic Development
- Teach undergraduate and postgraduate programmes in the relevant field of Education.
- Supervise postgraduate students.
- Participate in the Faculty’s Work Integrated Learning/Teaching Practice programme.
- Contribute to curriculum development.
- Participate in teaching, research and engaged scholarship.
Research & Innovation
- Conduct research and publish in accredited national and international journals.
- Drive innovation initiatives aligned with research-focused areas.
- Promote multi-, inter- and transdisciplinary research.
- Identify and develop current and future research flagships within the Faculty.
- Develop research and innovation strategies and drive process improvements.
- Apply for external research and teaching and learning grants.
- Lead or participate in collaborative research projects.
Postgraduate Studies
- Provide strategic leadership for postgraduate studies and research.
- Ensure academic standards are maintained across postgraduate programmes.
- Oversee postgraduate programme quality assurance across different sites.
- Manage postgraduate student-related matters alongside the Dean.
- Chair the Higher Degrees Committee of the Faculty.
- Provide leadership on postgraduate programme development and regulation.
Leadership & Management
- Take co-responsibility with the Dean for the Faculty’s academic and research direction.
- Mentor and support junior academic colleagues.
- Chair the Research Committee.
- Participate in Faculty and University committees.
- Represent the Dean and act as Dean when the Dean is absent.
- Report to the Deputy Vice-Chancellors and Vice-Chancellor and Principal when acting in the Dean’s capacity.
Partnerships & Funding
- Develop networks, partnerships and growth opportunities.
- Support strategic collaboration with external partners.
- Assist in securing third-stream income relating to postgraduate bursaries and research.
- Contribute to the financial management and sustainability of research and postgraduate activities.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must have:
- A Doctoral Degree (NQF Level 10) in a relevant field of Education.
- At least five years’ management-level experience, such as Head of Department, School, Centre or Unit.
- Proven experience supervising Master’s and PhD students.
- Experience serving as an external examiner for postgraduate students.
- A proven record of publishing in peer-reviewed journals.
- Proven experience with research grant applications and management.
- Experience in third-stream income generation.
- Superior knowledge of research methodology and postgraduate student support.
- Strong knowledge of postgraduate programme management and processes.
- Proven international recognition for specialist expertise and research leadership.
- Evidence of international scholarly engagement, such as regularly reviewing for international, ISI or IBSS journals.
- An NRF rating or potential for an NRF rating.
- Proven experience co-leading or leading one or more collaborative research projects within the past five years.
- Eligibility for appointment as an Associate Professor or full Professor at the University of the Free State.
Recommended Competencies
The following will be advantageous:
- Strong leadership and team-building capabilities.
- Ability to negotiate, collaborate, communicate and facilitate in complex environments.
- Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
- Excellent attention to detail.
- Ability to develop and implement research and innovation strategies.
- Proven research leadership and research team-building experience.
Key Competencies
Results Orientation
- Ability to adapt to a changing environment.
- Reliable, responsible and dependable approach to work.
Strategic Thinking
- Creative and open-minded approach to challenges.
- Strong analytical and logical problem-solving abilities.
Business Acumen
- Ability to follow rules, policies and regulations.
- Proficiency in MS Office and relevant academic software and platforms.
Leading
- High levels of motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
- Ability to promote collaboration and teamwork.
Building Coalitions
- Confidence in working with diverse stakeholders.
- Ability to make decisions through consultation and collaboration.
Required Application Documents
Applicants must submit:
- A detailed CV.
- Copies of qualifications or official proof of qualifications.
- SAQA accreditation for foreign qualifications, where applicable.
- Copy of ID or passport.
- Confirmation of current or most recent employment for external applicants.
- A brief statement of intent or vision for the position of Deputy-Dean: Research, Internationalisation and Postgraduate Studies, limited to a maximum of two pages.
The application system permits a maximum of eight attachments. Applicants are advised to merge documents where necessary.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
How to Apply
Applications must be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy portal.
Apply via the UFS Vacancy Portal
Closing Date: 21 August 2026
Enquiries
Tel: 051 401 9329
Email: VermaakM@ufs.ac.za
Tel: 051 401 9848
Email: TeateaPR@ufs.ac.za