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
Conduct qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods research.
Lead data analysis and write research reports.
Produce at least two accredited research outputs annually as lead author.
Contribute to research design, implementation, and evaluation.
Support resource mobilisation and internationalisation efforts.
Supervision & Leadership
Supervise postgraduate students.
Support and co-lead research assistants and interns.
Contribute to postgraduate training projects.
Academic & Community Engagement
Participate in engaged scholarship and policy advocacy.
Present research at conferences.
Contribute to strategic and operational objectives of the SANRAL Chair and Faculty.
Work collaboratively within research teams.
Inherent Requirements
Qualification Requirements (Either of the following):
Option 1:
Doctoral degree (NQF Level 10) in Education, focused on Curriculum/Instructional Leadership in schools.
OR
Option 2:
Master’s degree (NQF Level 9) in Education (Curriculum/Instructional Leadership focus)
ANDEnrolled for a Doctoral degree (NQF Level 10) in the same field (proof required).
Additional Requirements:
Submit abstract of thesis/dissertation showing relevance.
Formal teaching qualification (e.g., BEd, Diploma in Education) in Physical Sciences/Life Sciences/Natural Sciences.
Minimum:
5 years’ relevant school experience OR
2 years’ higher education/research experience.
Evidence of conference presentations.
Evidence of manuscripts suitable for accredited publication.
Recommendations
Publications in accredited journals.
At least 2 years’ experience as principal or deputy principal.
Experience in community-engaged scholarship.
Required Competencies
Results-Oriented
Adaptable and dependable.
Strategic Thinking
Creative and analytical problem solver.
Business Acumen
Adheres to policies and procedures.
Proficient in MS Office.
Leading
Self-motivated and collaborative.
Building Coalitions
Confident in professional environments.
Works effectively through consultation and teamwork.
Required Application Documents
Detailed CV.
Copies of qualifications (SAQA if foreign).
Proof of doctoral registration (if applicable).
Thesis/dissertation abstract.
Copy of ID/passport.
Proof of employment (if applicable).
Fringe Benefits
(Subject to conditions)
Pension scheme
Medical aid
Group life insurance
Housing allowance
Leave and sick leave
Service bonus