Senior Lecturer/Researcher- University of the Free State x1
Job Overview
Job Title: Senior Lecturer/Researcher
Job ID: 6647
Reference Number: 2326
Company: University of the Free State (UFS)
Department: FS Centre for Human Rights
Faculty: Faculty of Law
Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
Employment Type: Five-year contract appointment
Occupational Level: Junior Management
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Available on request
Assumption of Duty: 1 January 2027 or as soon as possible
Closing Date: 3 November 2026
Job Description
The University of the Free State is inviting applications for a Senior Lecturer/Researcher at the Free State Centre for Human Rights (FSCHR). The successful candidate will contribute to research, teaching and postgraduate supervision within the Research Chair’s focus area of poverty, rights and democracy.
The role involves producing accredited research publications, developing collaborative research projects, securing research funding, teaching postgraduate programmes and participating in advocacy and impact litigation initiatives.
Key Responsibilities
Conduct research and publish accredited scholarly work on poverty, rights and democracy.
Develop and initiate collaborative, interdisciplinary, multidisciplinary and transdisciplinary research projects.
Participate in fundraising initiatives for the Research Chair.
Develop, coordinate and teach postgraduate diplomas and short learning programmes.
Teach in the FSCHR’s Master of Human Rights programme.
Supervise Master’s and doctoral students, as well as postdoctoral fellows.
Participate in engaged scholarship, advocacy and impact litigation activities.
Contribute to research collaboration and academic development within the Centre.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
A doctoral degree (LLD, PhD or DPhil at NQF Level 10), obtained through a thesis focusing on poverty, rights and democracy or a closely related field.
At least six accredited publications in the relevant research area or a related field.
Substantial experience presenting papers at academic conferences, workshops, seminars or colloquia.
At least six months of undergraduate and/or postgraduate teaching experience.
Postgraduate supervision experience at both Master’s and doctoral levels, with at least one student supervised to graduation.
Demonstrable experience participating in collaborative, interdisciplinary, transdisciplinary or multidisciplinary research projects.
Added Advantages
The following will be advantageous:
Postdoctoral research experience at a university.
An interest in legal theory alongside doctrinal or empirical research.
Experience applying for research funding.
Familiarity with university financial and administrative systems.
Experience organising academic conferences, workshops, seminars, colloquia or public lectures.
Membership in local and international scholarly communities.
Required Competencies
Candidates should demonstrate:
Results Orientation: Ability to set high standards, achieve goals and fulfil responsibilities reliably.
Strategic Thinking: Strong planning, organisation, creativity and open-minded problem-solving.
Business Acumen: Ability to follow institutional policies and procedures, with proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Leadership: Self-motivation, enthusiasm, teamwork and the ability to encourage collaboration.
Building Coalitions: Sensitivity to others, consultation, collaboration and sound decision-making.
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.