Lecturer: Plant Ecology- University of the Free State x1
Job Details
- Job Title: Lecturer: Plant Ecology
- Job ID: 6595
- Reference: 2275
- Department: Plant Sciences
- Faculty: Natural and Agricultural Sciences
- Institution: University of the Free State
- Location: Qwaqwa Campus, Free State
- Job Type: Contract
- Contract Duration: 4 years
- Occupational Level: Junior Management
- Assumption of Duty: 1 December 2026 or as soon as possible
- Closing Date: 25 September 2026
- Salary: Available on request
Job Overview
The Lecturer: Plant Ecology will contribute to undergraduate and postgraduate teaching in areas including Vegetation Ecology, Plant Taxonomy and Systematics, and Advanced Biostatistics.
The successful candidate will also be expected to supervise postgraduate students, conduct research in their area of specialisation, publish scientific work in peer-reviewed journals and present research findings at conferences.
The role further includes contributing to curriculum development, academic administration, departmental and Faculty leadership, and scholarly engagement activities.
Key Responsibilities
The successful candidate will be responsible for:
Teaching and Student Supervision
- Present undergraduate and postgraduate modules in Vegetation Ecology, Plant Taxonomy and Systematics, and Advanced Biostatistics.
- Supervise postgraduate students.
- Participate in scholarly engagement opportunities related to learning and teaching.
- Contribute to curriculum development within the Department of Plant Sciences.
Research and Publications
- Conduct active research within the relevant field of specialisation.
- Synthesise research knowledge through publishing scientific papers in peer-reviewed, DHET-accredited journals.
- Communicate research findings through poster and oral presentations at scientific conferences.
- Source research funding from national and international funding organisations.
- Participate actively in the professional and scholarly community.
Academic Leadership and Administration
- Participate in leadership and administration at Departmental and Faculty level.
- Engage in scholarly activities relating to research, community engagement and in-service learning.
- Perform general administrative duties.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants for the Lecturer position must meet the following requirements:
- A PhD at NQF Level 10 in Botany, Plant Ecology, Plant Taxonomy and Systematics, or Biological Invasions; or
- A Master’s degree at NQF Level 9 in Botany, Plant Ecology, Plant Taxonomy and Systematics, or Biological Invasions, together with registration or willingness to register for a PhD at NQF Level 10 at the first available opportunity.
- Proven teaching experience in Higher Education at undergraduate level.
- Proven experience delivering poster or oral presentations at conferences in a relevant field.
- Evidence of manuscripts produced that have the potential to be converted or submitted for publication in accredited journals.
- Proven experience supervising Honours, MSc and/or PhD students.
Applicants who are already registered for a PhD should provide proof of registration.
Recommended Experience
The following will be advantageous:
- Active involvement in research relating to Botany, Plant Taxonomy and Systematics or Biological Invasions.
- At least 3 years’ experience teaching Botany, Plant Ecology, Plant Taxonomy and Systematics or Biological Invasions at tertiary level.
- Membership of, or registration with, a professional body such as a national or international scholarly society or committee.
Required Competencies
Results Orientated
- Ability to set high standards and challenging goals.
- Ability to work towards achieving successful outcomes.
- Ability to adapt to a frequently changing environment.
Strategic Thinking
- Ability to manage several activities simultaneously.
- Creative and open-minded approach to workplace challenges.
Business Acumen
- Ability to follow rules, policies and work regulations.
- Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Leading
- High levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
- Ability to lead, take charge of situations and provide opinions and direction to others.
Building Coalitions
- Confidence and ease when interacting with people in different social situations.
- Sensitivity and understanding of the needs and feelings of others.
Benefits
Subject to specific conditions, the successful candidate may receive fringe benefits including:
- Pension scheme
- Medical aid scheme
- Group life insurance
- Housing allowance
- Leave and sick leave
- Service bonus
- Study benefits