The University of the Free State is seeking a Professor (x1)
The University of the Free State is seeking an accomplished academic leader to serve as Associate Professor/Professor and Academic Head of the Department of Geology. The successful candidate will provide strategic academic leadership, drive research excellence, oversee teaching and learning, strengthen industry partnerships, and lead departmental operations while maintaining an active research and postgraduate supervision portfolio.
Job Overview:
- Job Title: Associate Professor/Professor (Permanent) & Academic Head of Department (5-Year Contract) – Job ID: 6519
- Company: University of the Free State – Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences, Department of Geology
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Bloemfontein, Free State, South Africa
- Employment Type: Permanent (Academic Position) with a 5-year Contract Appointment as Academic Head of Department (renewable based on performance)
Company Overview:
The University of the Free State (UFS) is one of South Africa’s leading research-intensive universities, committed to academic excellence, innovation, and community impact. The Department of Geology within the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences is dedicated to advancing geological research, postgraduate training, and industry collaboration while developing graduates equipped to address local and global geological challenges.
Responsibilities:
- Present undergraduate and postgraduate geology modules.
- Publish high-quality research in accredited peer-reviewed journals.
- Present research at national and international scientific conferences.
- Secure national and international research funding.
- Supervise Master’s and PhD students.
- Provide strategic and operational leadership for the Department of Geology.
- Drive curriculum development, teaching innovation, and quality assurance.
- Strengthen postgraduate training and research performance.
- Lead staff development, mentoring, succession planning, and performance management.
- Manage departmental finances, budgets, infrastructure, and human resources.
- Promote interdisciplinary research, industry engagement, and international collaborations.
- Ensure compliance with university policies, accreditation standards, and governance requirements.
- Represent the department on faculty and university leadership structures.
Qualifications:
Associate Professor Requirements:
- PhD (NQF Level 10) in Geological Sciences or a closely related field.
- Nationally recognised research profile with an NRF C3 rating (or equivalent).
- Experience supervising Master’s students.
- Strong publication record in accredited journals.
- Experience presenting research at national conferences.
- Experience serving on editorial boards and professional research bodies.
Professor Requirements:
- PhD (NQF Level 10) in Geological Sciences or a closely related field.
- Internationally recognised research profile with an NRF C1/C2 rating (or equivalent).
- Successful supervision of Master’s and preferably PhD graduates.
- Strong international publication and research leadership record.
- Experience delivering keynote presentations and serving on international scholarly bodies.
Head of Department Requirements:
- Demonstrated academic leadership and management experience.
- Proven ability to secure research funding and third-stream income.
- Experience managing staff, budgets, strategic planning, and curriculum development.
Recommended Qualifications & Experience:
- Registration as a Professional Natural Scientist (SACNASP or equivalent).
- Valid driver’s licence.
- Experience in both academia and industry.
- Formal qualification in management or leadership (NQF Level 7 or higher).
Key Skills and Competencies:
- Academic leadership and strategic planning.
- Research excellence and grant funding.
- Staff management and mentoring.
- Financial and resource management.
- Curriculum development and quality assurance.
- Stakeholder engagement and partnership building.
- Strong communication, leadership, and interpersonal skills.
- Microsoft Office proficiency.
Benefits:
Successful candidates may receive the following benefits (subject to UFS policies):
- Pension scheme.
- Medical aid.
- Group life insurance.
- Housing allowance.
- Annual and sick leave.
- Service bonus.
- Study benefits.
Application Process:
Applications must be submitted online through the official University of the Free State vacancies portal by 3 August 2026.
Applicants must submit:
- A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
- A cover letter outlining their leadership philosophy and strategic vision for the Department.
- Copies of qualifications (including SAQA accreditation for foreign qualifications where applicable).
- Copy of South African ID or passport.
- Proof of current or previous employment (appointment letter, service certificate, contract, or recent payslip).
Only complete applications submitted before the closing date will be considered. The successful candidate is expected to assume duty on 1 January 2027.