Close Menu
    Monday, November 10
    Job Opportunity

    Join UFS as Vice-Dean: (post level 5)| APPLY TODAY

    3 Mins Read
    account

    Vice-Dean: Research and Postgraduate Studies (post level 5) (Contract appointment: 5 years, with the possibility of serving a second term) (Job ID 6167) – (1865)

    The Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences at the University of the Free State (UFS) invites applications from its permanent academic staff for the position of Vice-Dean: Research and Postgraduate Studies. This leadership role is critical in driving research excellence, strengthening postgraduate education, and enhancing third-stream income and external partnerships within the Faculty.

    Job Overview:

    Job ID: 6167
    Faculty: Natural and Agricultural Sciences
    Campus: Bloemfontein, South Africa
    Contract Type: 5-Year Fixed Term (Renewable)
    Occupational Level: Middle Management
    Post Level: 5
    Application Deadline: 25 June 2025
    Start Date: 1 September 2025

    Eligibility Criteria

    Note: Only permanent academic staff members of the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences will be considered.

    Key Responsibilities

    • Strategic Leadership in postgraduate education and research development.

    • Identify, develop, and oversee faculty research flagships.

    • Promote academic excellence and postgraduate success, ensuring alignment with university-wide goals.

    • Oversee research and postgraduate financial planning, including grant and bursary funding, and large equipment strategy.

    • Develop and manage collaborations with external partners, including government and industry stakeholders.

    • Chair the Faculty’s Higher Degrees and Research Committee and ensure rigorous processes for thesis/dissertation submission and examination.

    • Promote engaged scholarship, internationalisation, and academic citizenship.

    • Serve on faculty and university committees, contributing to governance and transformation agendas.

     Job Requirements

    • A Doctoral degree (NQF Level 10) in a relevant discipline within the faculty.

    • Current appointment as an Associate Professor or Professor at UFS.

    • Experience in management/leadership roles within academia.

    • Proven supervision of Master’s and PhD students.

    • Strong publication record in peer-reviewed journals.

    • Eligibility for or current NRF rating.

    • Demonstrated success in grant acquisition and third-stream income generation.

    • Established academic and industry networks.

    Preferred Experience & Competencies

    • Strong leadership and team-building skills.

    • Demonstrated experience in inter-faculty collaboration and cross-disciplinary initiatives.

    • Understanding of faculty-level governance structures, including executive committees.

    • Proven strategic thinking and problem-solving ability.

    • High-level negotiation and communication skills.

    • Track record of collaborative leadership and inclusive decision-making.

    Key Competency Areas

    • Results Orientated: Adaptable, accountable, and goal-driven.

    • Strategic Thinking: Analytical and innovative problem-solver.

    • Business Acumen: Financially and administratively sound.

    • Leading: Motivational leader with a collaborative mindset.

    • Building Coalitions: Skilled in stakeholder engagement and relationship building.

    Remuneration

    • The allowance for this post is available on request.

    How to Apply

    Submit your application online only via:
    👉 https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll

    You must include the following:

    • Detailed Curriculum Vitae.

    • Copies of academic qualifications (with SAQA certification for international degrees).

    • ID or passport copy.

     Incomplete applications will not be considered.

    Enquiries

    Employment Equity and POPIA Compliance

    The UFS is a designated employer committed to equity, transformation, and diversity. Priority will be given to underrepresented groups, including candidates with disabilities, in line with the Employment Equity Plan (UFS EEA13 2025–2026).

    All personal information is processed in accordance with POPIA, ensuring data confidentiality and lawful processing.

     Final Notes

    • Shortlisted candidates will be contacted.

    • If no communication is received within six weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

    • The UFS reserves the right not to make an appointment.

     

    APPLY NOW: 

    Also See: Exciting Opportunity: UFS Lecturer: (Job ID: 6168) – (1864)

    Share.

    Related Posts