Lecturer: Life Sciences and Natural Sciences Education
- University: University of the Free State (UFS)
- Faculty: Education
- Department: Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Technology Education
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
- Job ID: 6580
- Employment Type: Permanent
- Occupational Level: Junior Management
- Assumption of Duties: 1 November 2026 or as soon as possible
- Closing Date: 28 August 2026
- Salary: Available on request
Job Overview
The University of the Free State is seeking a suitably qualified Lecturer: Life Sciences and Natural Sciences Education to join the Department of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Technology Education. The successful candidate will contribute to teaching, research, curriculum development, student supervision and faculty administration, with a focus on the teaching and learning of Natural Sciences and Life Sciences in schools.
Key Responsibilities
- Teach undergraduate and postgraduate modules in Natural Sciences, Life Sciences Education and General Education.
- Participate in the faculty’s Work Integrated Learning Programme and Teaching Practice.
- Participate actively in faculty research activities.
- Contribute to curriculum development in Natural Sciences and Life Sciences Education and General Education.
- Supervise undergraduate and postgraduate students and provide consultation sessions.
- Collaborate with colleagues within the faculty.
- Participate in faculty leadership and administrative activities.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet one of the following qualification requirements:
For permanent appointment:
- A Doctoral degree in Education (NQF Level 10) focusing on the teaching or learning of Natural Sciences/Life Sciences in schools.
For a five-year contract appointment:
- A Master’s degree in Education (NQF Level 9) specialising in the teaching or learning of Natural Sciences/Life Sciences in schools.
- During the five-year contract, the candidate must obtain a Doctoral degree in Education (NQF Level 10) focusing on the teaching or learning of Natural Sciences/Life Sciences in schools to qualify for conversion to a permanent position.
Candidates must also provide:
- An abstract of their thesis or dissertation demonstrating relevance to the teaching and/or learning of Natural Sciences/Life Sciences in schools.
- A formal teaching qualification, such as a Diploma in Education, Bachelor of Education or equivalent, with Life Sciences as one of the major subjects.
- At least 5 years’ relevant working experience in a school environment, or at least 2 years’ experience in higher education or a research and development environment.
- Proven experience presenting posters or oral presentations at conferences or equivalent activities.
- Evidence of manuscripts that have the potential to be converted into or submitted for publication in accredited journals.
- A good academic record.
Recommended Requirements
- A proven research record, including relevant publications in national or international Q1–Q4 accredited journals.
- Experience in postgraduate supervision.
Key Competencies
Results Orientation
- Ability to set high standards and challenging goals.
- Reliable, responsible and committed to fulfilling obligations.
Strategic Thinking
- Strong attention to detail and organisation.
- Creative and open-minded approach to work-related challenges.
Business Acumen
- Ability to comply with rules and regulations.
- Proficiency in MS Office.
Leadership
- High levels of motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
- Ability to work cooperatively and encourage teamwork.
Building Coalitions
- Ability to interact effectively and establish positive relationships.
- Ability to make decisions through consultation and collaboration.
Benefits
Subject to applicable conditions, benefits include:
- Pension scheme
- Medical aid scheme
- Group life insurance
- Housing allowance
- Leave and sick leave
- Service bonus
- Study benefits
Application Requirements
Applications must be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website. Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered.
Applicants must submit:
- Detailed CV
- Copies of qualifications or official proof of qualifications
- SAQA accreditation for foreign qualifications, where applicable
- Copy of South African ID or passport
- Proof of current or most recent employment for external applicants
- Thesis/dissertation abstract
- Copy of formal teaching qualification
- Academic record
- Evidence of conference presentations and relevant manuscripts
The application system allows a maximum of eight attachments. Applicants are encouraged to merge documents where necessary to avoid upload issues.
Important: Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Enquiries
For enquiries, contact 051 401 2558 or email manzanal@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.ac.za. Assistance is also available at 051 401 9813 / 2979.
Closing Date: 28 August 2026