Job Description

This post was previously advertised as Job ID: 5276. All applications received in response to the previous advertisement, will automatically be considered again. Previous applicants therefore do not need to reapply.

KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website: - Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Actively contribute to and further advance the teaching and research agenda of our soil science section, which plays a central role in the agricultural cluster at the UFS.
• Lecture / teach undergraduate modules in the field of soil science and the supervision of research activities conducted by MSc and PhD students.
• Function as an independent researcher and set up and carry out research activities that lead to relevant scientific outputs and contribute to the wider goals of improving and managing soil resources sustainably in South Africa and beyond.
• Engage with a diversity of stakeholders, including academic collaborators, funding agencies, the industry and government.

Inherent Job requirements:
Lecturer

• A PhD in Soil Science or related discipline on NQF Level 10 (for a permanent appointment)

OR

• Master's degree in Soil Science or related discipline on NQF Level 9 (contract appointment: five years during which a PhD in Soil Science or related discipline on NQF Level 10 MUST be obtained to be converted to a permanent position).
• Proven experience in the delivery of poster or oral presentations at conferences or equivalent activities.
• Evidence of manuscripts produced that have the potential to be converted or submitted for publication in accredited journals.
• A good academic record.

Senior Lecturer

• PhD on NQF Level 10 in Soil Science or a closely related field.
• Proven experience in the presentation of papers/posters at national scholarly conferences.
• Proven national recognition for specialist expertise and research in a specific area of scholarship.
• An NRF rating or demonstrated potential for obtaining an NRF rating.
• Proven experience in supervision of graduated master's-degree students.
• A proven research record of relevant publications in national and international accredited journals.
• Proven experience of service as an active member of a national or international scholarly society or committee or agency concerned with research at higher-education levels.

Recommendations:

• Expertise in Soil Science, underpinned by a credible track record of scientific publications in internationally recognised journals.
• Expertise in the field of soil chemistry and soil fertility is an advantage.
• Broad set of research skills (setting up experiments, data collection and analysis, dissemination of research results, etc), and a flexible mindset to take advantage of the diverse opportunities for soil science research arising.
• Ability to attract research funding.
• Experience with lecturing and the supervision of MSc and PhD students.

Competencies

Key Competencies required:

• Results oriented:

- The ability to set high standards, establish tough goals, and to work to achieve success.
- The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations.

• Strategic thinking:

- The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
- The ability to focus on details, work towards perfection, and approach work in a neat and organised manner.

• Business Acumen:

- The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
- Proficient in using MS Office.
- Good communication skills.

• Leading:

- The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
- The ability to lead, take charge of situations, and offer opinions and directions to others.

• Building coalitions:

- The ability to negotiate, sell, influence and to persuade others.
- The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.

Required Documents

Please ensure all relevant documentation is attached to your application. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.
*Certified copies must not be older than 6 months

• A detailed curriculum vitae and cover letter.
• Certified copies (not older than 6 months) of qualifications (please provide the SAQA accreditation in the case of foreign qualifications).
• Certified copies (not older than 6 months) of all academic records.
• A certified copy (not older than 6 months) of your identity document (ID).
• Proof of registration with a Professional Body (if applicable).
• A copy of your driver's license (if applicable).
• A service record of your current employer / last employer (only applicable to external applicants).

Assumption of duties:
As soon as possible.

Closing date:
13 August 2023

Salary:
The salary is available on request.

Fringe benefits:
(Subject to specific conditions): pension scheme, medical aid scheme, group life insurance, housing allowance, leave and sick leave, service bonus and study benefits.

Enquiries:
For enquiries, please feel free to contact me at 051 401 9814 or email at or . Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 2979 / 9810 / 9813 for assistance.

General:
The UFS is a designated employer and is committed to the pursuit of excellence, diversity, and redress in achieving its equity targets in accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets. Preference will be given to candidates from the under-represented designated groups including candidates with disabilities. Our Employment Equity Policy is available at :

The University processes personal information in line with its obligations under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and any personal information provided to the University will be treated as confidential and processed in accordance with the rights provided to data subjects under POPIA.

The University reserves the right not to fill the post. The UFS will only consider applications of candidates who meet all the inherent requirements of the position. Applications that are incomplete will not be considered. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. Should you not be contacted within six weeks of the closing date for applications, you may assume that your application was unsuccessful.

The UFS will only consider applications of candidates who meet all the inherent requirements of the position.

Additional Information

University of the Free State