UFS Lecturer: Life Sciences and Natural Sciences Education (Job ID: 6168) – (1864)
The University of the Free State (UFS) is seeking a dynamic and experienced academic to join the School of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Technology Education as a Lecturer in Life Sciences and Natural Sciences Education. The ideal candidate is committed to excellence in teaching, research, and curriculum development, and brings expertise in Life and Natural Sciences Education within a school context.
Job Overview:
Job ID: 6168
Location: Qwaqwa Campus, Free State, South Africa
Faculty: Education – School of Mathematics, Natural Sciences and Technology Education
Contract Type: Permanent
Occupational Level: Junior Management
Closing Date: 28 June 2025
Assumption of Duties: 1 September 2025
Key Responsibilities
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Teach undergraduate and postgraduate modules in Life Sciences, Natural Sciences, and General Education.
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Participate in Work Integrated Learning programmes (Teaching Practice).
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Actively contribute to the faculty’s research output.
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Engage in curriculum development for both Natural and Life Sciences Education.
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Supervise undergraduate and postgraduate students and provide academic consultations.
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Collaborate with faculty colleagues on academic and administrative tasks.
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Support faculty leadership and internal processes.
Requirements
For a Permanent Appointment:
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PhD in Education (NQF Level 10) with a focus on Teaching of Natural Sciences and/or Life Sciences in schools.
For a 5-Year Contract Appointment (with conversion to permanent contingent on PhD completion):
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Master’s Degree in Education (NQF Level 9) focused on Natural Sciences/Life Sciences Education.
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Proof of PhD registration and abstract of the thesis/dissertation showing relevance to school-level Life or Natural Sciences Education (attach documents).
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Formal teaching qualification (e.g. B.Ed. or PGCE) with Life Sciences as a major.
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Minimum of:
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5 years’ experience in a school setting, or
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2 years in a higher education/research environment.
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Experience in presenting oral/poster presentations at academic conferences.
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Evidence of manuscripts in progress that show potential for journal publication.
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Good academic record (attach transcript or proof).
Preferred (Recommended) Experience
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Research publication in accredited journals (Q1–Q4).
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Experience in postgraduate supervision.
Key Competencies
Results Orientated
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Goal-driven and reliable in meeting academic and institutional expectations.
Strategic Thinking -
Creative and meticulous in teaching and research.
Business Acumen -
Adherence to institutional rules and proficiency in MS Office.
Leading -
Enthusiastic, collaborative, and motivational team member.
Building Coalitions -
Strong interpersonal and decision-making skills in a consultative environment.
Remuneration and Benefits
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Salary: Available upon request.
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Benefits include (subject to UFS 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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Paid leave and sick leave
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Service bonus
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Study benefits
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How to Apply
Only applications submitted through the official UFS vacancy portal will be considered:
👉 https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll
Required Application Documents:
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Comprehensive CV
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Certified copies of qualifications (SAQA required for international degrees)
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Copy of South African ID/passport
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Proof of employment (letter, contract, service certificate, or payslip – external applicants only)
Enquiries
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Email: MofoloNG@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.ac.za
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Phone: +27 51 401 9810 / 9813 / 2979 / 9814 / 7659 / 9848
Equity and Legal
UFS is a designated employer committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. Preference is given to candidates from underrepresented groups, including persons with disabilities, in accordance with the University’s Employment Equity Plan.
The UFS complies with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA), ensuring all personal information is treated confidentially.
Final Notes
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Incomplete applications will not be considered.
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Communication is limited to shortlisted candidates.
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If you don’t hear back within six weeks post-deadline, your application was unfortunately unsuccessful.
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UFS reserves the right not to make an appointment.
Also See Available Vacancies at UFS: Associate Professor/ Professor UFS 6169


