Lecturer: Plant Breeding- University of the Free State x1
Job Overview
Job Title: Lecturer: Plant Breeding
Job ID: 6649
Reference Number: 2324
Company: University of the Free State (UFS)
Department: Plant Sciences
Faculty: Natural and Agricultural Sciences
Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
Employment Type: Five-year contract appointment
Occupational Level: Junior Management
Salary: Available on request
Assumption of Duty: 1 February 2027
Closing Date: 4 November 2026
Job Description
The University of the Free State is seeking a qualified and research-oriented Lecturer in Plant Breeding to join its Department of Plant Sciences. The successful candidate will contribute to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, conduct research into crop improvement and abiotic stress tolerance, supervise postgraduate students, and support curriculum development.
The role offers an opportunity to contribute to agricultural research, advance crop improvement initiatives and develop research outputs for publication in accredited academic journals.
Key Responsibilities
Deliver undergraduate and postgraduate lectures in Plant Breeding.
Expand research into crop improvement, particularly abiotic stress tolerance.
Manage greenhouse activities and field trials for relevant research projects.
Conduct research and publish findings in accredited national and international peer-reviewed journals.
Supervise Honours, Master’s and Doctoral students.
Perform general university administrative and management duties.
Contribute to curriculum development within the faculty.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
A PhD in Plant Breeding or a closely related field (NQF Level 10).
Proven undergraduate teaching experience in higher education.
Demonstrated experience presenting posters or delivering oral presentations at conferences, or participating in equivalent activities.
Evidence of research manuscripts with potential for conversion into or submission to accredited journals.
Added Advantages
The following will be advantageous:
At least two years of relevant work experience.
Experience independently managing research projects.
A strong record of research outputs.
Experience with omics techniques, including metabolomics, transcriptomics and genomics.
Knowledge of bioinformatics.
Experience in statistical analysis using R software.
Knowledge of abiotic stress physiology.
Experience managing greenhouse and field trials.
Experience supervising students.
A valid driver’s licence, with a copy attached to the application.
Required Competencies
Candidates should demonstrate:
Results Orientation: Adaptability, reliability, accountability and the ability to work in changing environments.
Strategic Thinking: Multitasking, attention to detail, organisation and effective planning.
Business Acumen: Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Leadership: Initiative, motivation, confidence and the ability to provide direction.
Building Coalitions: Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to establish professional relationships.
Salary and Benefits
The salary is available on request.
Fringe benefits, subject to applicable conditions, include:
Pension scheme.
Medical aid scheme.
Group life insurance.
Housing allowance.
Annual leave and sick leave.
Service bonus.
Study benefits.