Researcher: Curriculum Leadership in Science Education x1
- SANRAL Chair in Science, Mathematics and Technology Education
(5-Year Contract Appointment)
Job ID: 6369 - Institution: University of the Free State
- Faculty: Education
- Department: Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Technology Education
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
- Contract Type: Fixed-term (5 years)
- Occupational Level: Junior Management
- Closing Date: 11 March 2026
- Assumption of Duties: 1 May 2026
- Salary: Available on request
Job Overview
This role forms part of the SANRAL Chair in Science, Mathematics and Technology Education and focuses on advancing research in Curriculum/Instructional Leadership in schools, particularly within science education.
The Researcher will conduct high-quality research, supervise postgraduate students, contribute to policy and community engagement, and generate accredited research outputs annually.
This is a research-intensive position within the Faculty of Education.
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Research & Publication
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Conduct qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research.
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Lead data analysis and write research reports.
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Produce at least two accredited research outputs annually as lead author.
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Contribute to research design, implementation, and evaluation.
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Support resource mobilisation and internationalisation efforts.
Supervision & Leadership
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Supervise postgraduate students.
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Support and co-lead research assistants and interns.
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Contribute to postgraduate training projects.
Academic & Community Engagement
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Participate in engaged scholarship and policy advocacy.
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Present research at conferences.
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Contribute to strategic and operational objectives of the SANRAL Chair and Faculty.
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Work collaboratively within research teams.
Inherent Requirements
Qualification Requirements (Either of the following):
Option 1:
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Doctoral degree (NQF Level 10) in Education, focused on Curriculum/Instructional Leadership in schools.
OR
Option 2:
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Master’s degree (NQF Level 9) in Education (Curriculum/Instructional Leadership focus)
AND -
Enrolled for a Doctoral degree (NQF Level 10) in the same field (proof required).
Additional Requirements:
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Submit abstract of thesis/dissertation showing relevance.
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Formal teaching qualification (e.g., BEd, Diploma in Education) in Physical Sciences/Life Sciences/Natural Sciences.
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Minimum:
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5 years’ relevant school experience OR
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2 years’ higher education/research experience.
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Evidence of conference presentations.
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Evidence of manuscripts suitable for accredited publication.
Recommendations
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Publications in accredited journals.
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At least 2 years’ experience as principal or deputy principal.
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Experience in community-engaged scholarship.
Required Competencies
Results-Oriented
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Adaptable and dependable.
Strategic Thinking
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Creative and analytical problem solver.
Business Acumen
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Adheres to policies and procedures.
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Proficient in MS Office.
Leading
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Self-motivated and collaborative.
Building Coalitions
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Confident in professional environments.
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Works effectively through consultation and teamwork.
Required Application Documents
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Detailed CV.
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Copies of qualifications (SAQA if foreign).
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Proof of doctoral registration (if applicable).
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Thesis/dissertation abstract.
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Copy of ID/passport.
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Proof of employment (if applicable).
Fringe Benefits
(Subject to conditions)
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Pension scheme
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Medical aid
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Group life insurance
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Housing allowance
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Leave and sick leave
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Service bonus