Research Theme Leader: Planetary Health and Well-Being (5-Years)

Research Theme Leader: Planetary Health and Well-Being (5-Years)

Job Details

• Job Title: Research Theme Leader: Planetary Health and Well-Being
• Level: Associate Professor or Professor
• Job ID: 6461
• Contract Type: 5-Year Contract Appointment
• Occupational Level: Middle Management
• Institution: University of the Free State
• Campus: Bloemfontein Campus
• Closing Date: 19 June 2026

Purpose of the Position

The role focuses on leading the university’s Planetary Health and Well-Being Research Theme under the UFS Vision 130 strategy. The successful candidate will guide interdisciplinary research that connects:

• Human health
• Animal health
• Environmental sustainability
• Ecosystem resilience

The position aims to establish UFS as a leading African and global institution in Planetary Health and One Health research.

Main Responsibilities

Strategic Leadership

• Develop and implement a long-term research strategy and roadmap.
• Position UFS in global research networks and partnerships.

Research Management

• Lead interdisciplinary and transdisciplinary research programmes.
• Coordinate research related to:
  • Climate change
  • Sustainability
  • Food systems
  • Environmental degradation
  • Zoonotic diseases

Funding and Partnerships

• Secure local and international research grants.
• Build partnerships with:
  • Government departments
  • NGOs
  • Industry
  • International organisations

Innovation and Impact

• Translate research into practical solutions and policy development.
• Influence health and environmental governance.

Academic Leadership

• Supervise postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows.
• Mentor emerging researchers and academics.

Institutional Collaboration

• Work with other research leaders and university departments.
• Represent UFS in national and international forums.

Minimum Requirements

• PhD in a related field such as:
  • Public Health
  • Environmental Health
  • Sustainability Science
  • Epidemiology
  • Veterinary Science
  • Agricultural Science
  • Environmental Humanities
• Eligible for appointment at Associate Professor or Professor level.
• Strong publication record in relevant research fields.
• Experience leading interdisciplinary research projects.
• Proven success in obtaining external research funding.
• Excellent communication and partnership-building abilities.

Preferred Qualifications and Experience

• NRF rating or international recognition.
• Experience in global research collaborations.
• Knowledge of:
  • Climate resilience
  • Health systems strengthening
  • Environmental governance
• Experience aligning research with:
  • Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs)
  • AU Agenda 2063
  • WHO One Health initiatives

Required Competencies

• Strategic thinking
• Leadership and influence
• Research and business acumen
• Networking and collaboration
• Innovation and adaptability
• Results-driven approach

Salary and Benefits

• Competitive remuneration package based on experience and seniority.
• Benefits may include:
  • Pension scheme
  • Medical aid
  • Housing allowance
  • Group life insurance
  • Annual leave
  • Study benefits
  • Service bonus

Application Requirements

Applicants must submit:

• Comprehensive CV
• Cover letter
• Qualifications and SAQA accreditation (if applicable)
• ID/passport copy
• Proof of professional registration (if applicable)

How to Apply

Applications can be submitted through the official UFS Careers Portal or via email to:

• VermaakM@ufs.ac.za
• TeateaPR@ufs.ac.za

Contact Information

Enquiries

• Mrs. Marianne Vermaak
  Tel: +27 51 401 9329
  Email: VermaakM@ufs.ac.za

Application Assistance

• Mrs. Puseletso Parkie
  Tel: +27 51 401 9848
  Email: TeateaPR@ufs.ac.za

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