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UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE STATE (UFS) VACANCIES - 29 MAY 2021
UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE STATE (UFS)
SENIOR RESEARCHER (GIS AND REMOTE SENSING, AND ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT) (5-YEAR CONTRACT) (JOB ID: 6477)
Organizational Unit
University of the Free State -> Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences -> Disaster Management Training and Education Centre for Africa
Contract Type
Occupational Level Junior Management
Location Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)
Closing Date 11/6/2026
Description
This post was previously advertised as Job ID: 6441. All applications received in response to the previous advertisement, will automatically be considered again. Previous applicants should not reapply.
KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll - Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered.
The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.
INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!
To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
• Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
• A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for foreign nationals).
• Confirmation of employment in the form of a letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or recent payslip from your current or most recent employer (applicable to external applicants only).
Duties and responsibilities:
• Provide and coordinate high-impact research programmes in Geographic Information Systems (GIS), remote sensing, and environmental management with emphasis on disaster risk reduction, climate resilience, and sustainable development.
• Contribute to developing innovative geospatial methodologies and models for environmental assessment, hazard mapping, and risk analysis.
• Pioneer the integration of GeoAI and advanced machine learning techniques in disaster risk and environmental research.
• Establish and maintain a strong publication record in high-impact, internationally recognised journals.
• Present research findings at prestigious international conferences and scientific forums.
Inherent requirements:
• PhD on NQF Level 10 in Environmental Management, Geography, Geographic Information Systems (GIS), Geoinformatics, or a closely related discipline.
• 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:
• Minimum of 2 years postdoctoral research experience in relevant fields.
• Demonstrated track record of research excellence with substantial publications in high-impact peer-reviewed journals (minimum 10 publications).
• Proven experience in leading research projects and managing multidisciplinary teams.
• Extensive expertise in advanced GIS and remote sensing software and methodologies.
• Strong record of postgraduate student supervision with successful completions.
• Excellent scientific writing, communication, and presentation skills.
• Spatial modelling, geostatistics, and predictive analytics.
• Disaster risk assessment and vulnerability analysis using GIS and Remote sensing.
• GeoAI and machine learning applications in environmental science.
• Big data analytics and cloud computing for geospatial applications.
Competencies
Required competencies:
• Results oriented:
- The ability to set high standards, establish tough goals, and to work to achieve success.
- The ability to stick with tasks, not give up, and overcome obstacles in completing one's task.
• Strategic thinking:
- The ability to focus on details, work towards perfection, and approach work in a neat and organised manner.
- The ability to carefully analyse information and use logic to address issues and problems at work.
• Business Acumen:
- The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
- Proficient in using MS Office.
• Leading
- The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
- The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.
• Building coalitions
- The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.
- The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.
Assumption of duties: As soon as possible.
Closing date: 11 June 2026
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 051 401 7659 or email SejanamaneP@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.ac.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 2558 / 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 Plan is available at: ufs-employment-equity-plan_2025.pdf
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.
Additional Information
CLEANER (POST LEVEL 18) (6 POSITIONS, OF WHICH 3 ARE BASED AT SOUTH CAMPUS AND 3 AT THE BLOEMFONTEIN CAMPUS) (JOB ID: 6470)
Organizational Unit University of the Free State -> Student Affairs, Sport, Arts and Culture -> Housing and Residence Affairs
Contract Type Permanent
Occupational Level Unskilled
Location Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)
Closing Date 4/6/2026
Description
How to apply:
Hard copy applications may be submitted at:
• The University of the Free State, George du Toit Building, Human Resources Department, 2nd Floor, Reception: Room S201
OR
• Online through the official UFS vacancy website: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll
Please ensure that all relevant documentation is attached to your application. INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED.
• A detailed curriculum vitae.
• Proof of completion of Grade 10 on NQF Level 2 or higher in the form of a school report/card, letter from school, or copy of certificate.
• A copy of your identity document (SA ID or passport in the case of foreign nationals).
• Colour coding cleaning system certificate (if applicable).
Duties and responsibilities:
• Clean residences and other accommodation categories of the Department: Housing and Residence Affairs.
• Clean according to the All-Care Colour Coding System.
• Responsible for issued equipment as provided by the University.
• Clean restrooms as provided by the University.
• Clean during conferences; this includes making up beds and taking off the linen after conferences. Cleaners will have to work overtime when required, especially during conference times.
• Work overtime as and when required.
Inherent requirements:
• At least Grade 10 on NQF Level 2 (attach proof).
Recommendations:
• A minimum of 2 years’ experience in a colour code cleaning system.
• A colour coding cleaning system certificate (attach a copy).
• Cleaning experience in a tertiary residence environment.
Competencies
Required competencies:
• Results Orientated:
- The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.
- The ability to deal calmly and effectively with high stress situations.
• Strategic Thinking:
- The ability to focus on details, work towards perfection, and approach work in a neat and organised manner.
- The ability to be creative and open-minded when addressing work issues.
• Business Acumen:
- The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
- Proficient in using MS Office.
• Leading:
- The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
- The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.
• Building Coalitions:
- The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.
- The ability to make decisions through consultation, collaboration and working with close supervision.
Assumption of duties: 01 July 2026
Closing date: 4 June 2026
Salary: The annual remuneration package, including benefits, is R127 080.97 per annum, depending on the budget available for the position, relevant work experience and qualifications.
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 051 401 7659 or email SejanamaneP@ufs.ac.zaor Recruit@ufs.ac.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 2558 / 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 Plan is available at: ufs-employment-equity-plan_2025.pdf
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.
Additional Information
FACULTY MANAGER (POST LEVEL 7) (JOB ID: 6475)
Organizational Unit University of the Free State -> Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences -> Office of the Vice-Dean
Contract Type Permanent
Occupational Level Junior Management
Location Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)
Closing Date 8/6/2026
Description
This position was previously advertised as Job ID 6381. All applications received in response to the previous advertisement will automatically be considered again. Previous applicants should not reapply.
KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll - Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered. The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.
INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!
To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
• Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
• A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for foreign nationals).
• Confirmation of employment in the form of a letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or recent payslip from your current or most recent employer (applicable to external applicants only).
Duties and responsibilities:
Operations and Faculty Management
• Responsible for the day-to-day management of core administrative business of the faculty.
• Engage in the strategic planning of administrative business processes in conjunction with the Dean and/or Vice Deans.
• Manage meetings and associated administration for Faculty Committees (For example, Faculty Board and Faculty Management Committee).
• Responsible for convening and agenda preparation for Faculty meetings.
• Advise the Dean, Vice Deans, Heads of Departments, Centres and Schools within the Faculty in terms of operational policies and procedures that influence their sphere of operation.
• Evaluate allocation of administrative resources throughout the faculty and make strategic recommendations for the optimal allocation of such resources to ensure the smooth running of the faculty.
• Effectively manage Faculty admissions, registrations, and graduation functions.
• Manage student registrations, oversee the process of academic advice to students, deal with student enquiries, and refer students where necessary.
• Plan and organise the academic year cycle, including the faculty rulebook, syllabus publications, faculty calendar, and key activities in the Faculty on the University calendar.
• Effectively manage the faculty registrar function and academic records.
• Liaise with the Vice Dean: Teaching and Learning, Teaching-Learning Manager, Head of Departments and
• Programme Director regarding the establishment of new qualifications and streams.
• Liaise with Marketing and other departments for updating the information in the Faculty Booklet, prospectus and other marketing material.
• Adhere to University and faculty policies and procedures.
People Management
• Supervise administrative staff and service workers in the Dean’s office, and perform all functions associated with such supervision, including induction of new staff members, leave approval; performance evaluation of staff members; coordinate duties of the staff members, and make recommendations in terms of promotions, salary increases and merit bonuses for these staff.
• Administer the recruitment process, including to perform administration associated with advertisements; assisting in sifting applications; and assisting with arrangements for shortlisting meetings and interviews for vacancies in the Dean’s office.
• Monitor contract appointments (including (re)appointment of AHDs and Programme Directors, to ensure timeous submissions to the Human Resources Department.
• Promote transformation within the faculty administration.
• Identify training needs of administrative staff within the Office of the Dean and facilitate such training.
• Manage and coordinate the annual promotions cycle in the faculty.
• Liaise with the Department of Human Resources and the Executive Committee of Senate regarding appointments and promotions.
• Adhere to UFS’s human resource policies and procedures.
Finance Management
• Plan, manage, report and advise on the faculty budget (annual budgeting; financial planning; allocation of funds; and financial control).
• Complete ad-hoc claims, requisitions and service requests where necessary.
• Adhere to the UFS’s financial policies and procedures.
Monitoring and Evaluation
• Monitor, evaluate and prepare the annual projection for the faculty’s fee income and enrolment planning.
• Provide data, analysis and information in support of planning and decision-making within the faculty.
Stakeholder Relationship Management
• Form and foster relationships across the University and external stakeholders (students and professional bodies).
• Understand both internal and external customer needs.
• Liaise with the Dean, Vice Deans, Heads of Departments, Programme Directors, Teaching-Learning
• Manager and the Faculty Management Team on Academic Policy decisions.
• Act as a member of the following Faculty Committees: Faculty Board, Faculty Management Committee,
• Faculty Academic Planning Committee, Faculty Marketing Committee, Faculty Admissions Advisory Committee, Faculty Examination Board and Faculty Rules Committee.
• Act as member of the following Committees external to the faculty: Central Examination Committee, General Rules Committee, Academic Advising Forum, Graduations Committee, Applications Forum, General Registrations Committee, TLMG and Senate Enrolment Management Committee.
• Act as member of ad hoc task teams during special projects (e.g., ITP Progression Rule Task Team, Systems Renewal Task Teams).
Quality Assurance
• Ensure that all the activities within the faculty are carried out to the highest possible standards, and ensures that the necessary evaluation and monitoring procedures are in place to ensure both compliance and improvement.
• Adhere to auditing, quality assurance and risk management procedures both internal and external.
Inherent requirements:
• A relevant bachelor’s degree or an Advanced Diploma/B.Tech degree/Postgraduate Certificate on NQF Level 7.
• Minimum of four (4) years’ relevant working experience in an academic administration supervisory role at a higher education institution.
• Proven experience with administrative, financial, and management systems and software (e.g., PeopleSoft), and with processes, policies, and procedures of higher education institutions.
Recommendations:
• A relevant honours degree /Postgraduate Diploma/Professional Bachelor’s degree on NQF Level 8.
• A thorough understanding of staff management and leadership.
• Sound knowledge of business drivers and trends and environmental factors to influence and shape the department’s strategy.
• Sound knowledge of Acts that impact the Tertiary Education sector.
Competencies
Required competencies:
• Results Orientated:
- The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations.
- The ability to deal calmly and effectively with high stress 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.
• Leading:
- The ability to lead, take charge of situations, and offer opinions and directions to others.
- The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.
• Building Coalitions:
- The ability to negotiate, sell, influence and to persuade others.
- The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.
Assumption of duties: As soon as possible
Closing date: 8 June 2026
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 051 401 2558 or email ManzanaL@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.az.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 9813 / 2979 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 Plan is available at: ufs-employment-equity-plan_2025.pdf
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.
Additional Information
Faculty Manager (post level 7) (Job ID: 6475)
SENIOR ASSISTANT OFFICER: OFF-CAMPUS ACCOMMODATION INSPECTOR (POST LEVEL 12) (CONTRACT APPOINTMENT: 3 YEARS) (JOB ID: 6469)
Organizational Unit University of the Free State -> Student Affairs, Sport, Arts and Culture -> Housing and Residence Affairs
Contract Type Contract
Occupational Level Semi-Skilled
Location QwaQwa Campus - QwaQwa, FS ZA (Primary)
Closing Date 4/6/2026
Description
KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll - Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered.The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.
INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!
To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
• Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
• A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for foreign nationals).
• Confirmation of employment in the form of a letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or recent payslip from your current or most recent employer (applicable to external applicants only).
Duties and responsibilities:
Administration: Evaluation of Applications
• Ensure all documentation is filled out according to the list of required documents for accreditation.
• Verify the correctness of the supplied documentation for accreditation and verification status.
• Compile an inspection schedule for applications for the accreditation of Off- Campus student addresses.
• Fill all the inspection schedules.
• Send correspondence of the availability of accommodation to the Off- Campus Accredited Service.
• Update providers regularly.
• Assist with the verification of Off- Campus accommodation.
• Keep a record of all correspondence with Service Providers/ Students / SAPS/ Maluti A Phofung and all other parties.
• Ensure that files for accredited Service Providers are according to the requirements for the UFS Audit.
• Evaluate the contract between students and the Service Provider to ensure compliance with the UFS standards for accreditation.
• Follow up on updated reports from the police/ neighbourhood watch for the specific area/cluster.
• Follow up regarding the withdrawal of accreditation applications and provide correct information on the re-application for accreditation.
Communication
• Respond and send emails to all accredited addresses managed by Off-Campus Accommodation Service Providers.
• Respond to enquiries relating to accredited Off- Campus addresses.
• Liaise with potential Off-Campus Accommodation Service Providers, students, and visitors as well as answering queries.
• Inform the Off-Campus Accommodation Service Providers on the policies, procedures, protocols and directives of the UFS applicable to them.
• Deliver (via email) correspondence and documentation to potential Off-Campus Accommodation Service Providers for accreditation.
• Confirm the submission of the application for accreditation by the Service Provider.
• Send communication to Service Providers regarding the outcome of the inspection.
• Set up meetings with the Service Providers of accredited addresses and the Maluti-A- Phofung Municipality.
• Make accredited addresses accessible for students on the website and in the office.
Inspections
• Confirm availability of Service Providers for pre- and post-inspections.
• Conduct inspections for applicants who comply with a minimum of 90% of the required documents for accreditation as approved by the officer for Off- Campus accommodation.
• Ensure that all inspections are conducted as per the inspection checklist provided by the officer for Off-Campus accommodation.
• Compile a report for each inspection conducted and its findings.
• Compile a weekly summary report on the outcome of the inspections conducted.
Inherent requirements:
• A bachelor’s degree or an advanced diploma/BTech degree/postgraduate certificate on NQF Level 7 in Building Science, Civil Engineering or a closely related field.
• A minimum of one (1) year’s relevant working experience related to the duties and responsibilities.
• A valid driver's license (attach proof).
Recommendations:
• Postgraduate qualification.
• Experience in building inspections.
• Experience in construction projects.
• Experience interpreting building plans.
• Basic knowledge of relevant building legislation.
• Basic knowledge of rezoning/ consent use protocols.
Competencies
Required competencies:
• Results Orientated:
- 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 plan work and to follow plans.
- The ability to be creative and open-minded when addressing work issues.
• Business Acumen:
- The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
- Proficient in using MS Office.
• Leading:
- The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
- The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.
• Building Coalitions:
- The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.
- The ability to make decisions through consultation, collaboration and working with close supervision.
Assumption of duties: 01 July 2026 or as soon as possible.
Closing date: 4 June 2026
Salary: The annual remuneration package, including benefits is R 403, 692.54 – R 506,869.69 per annum, depending on the budget available for the position, relevant work experience and qualifications.
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 051 401 2876 or email SeitlhekoLP@ufs.ac.za or Recruit@ufs.az.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 2979 / 7659 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 Plan is available at: ufs-employment-equity-plan_2025.pdf
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.
Additional Information
POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP (1-YEAR CONTRACT, RENEWABLE UP TO 2 YEARS) (JOB ID: 6464)
Organizational Unit University of the Free State -> Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences -> Department Agricultural Economics
Contract Type Contract
Occupational Level Temporary
Location Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)
Closing Date 7/6/2026
Description
The Department of Agricultural Economics of the University of the Free State (UFS) invites applications from suitably qualified candidates for a postdoctoral fellowship position, to be filled as soon as possible.
Candidates with a research interest and experience in research on the sustainable use of freshwater for food production are encouraged to apply for this position. Candidates with proven experience in assessing the water footprint of agri-food products; Virtual water trade of agri-food products; Blue water footprint caps for river basins; Climate finance for agricultural production would be considered.
The fellowship will enable an outstanding doctoral graduate to obtain experience in research and innovation at a higher education institution under the mentorship of established researchers.
The fellowship is awarded on a competitive basis, taking into account the applicants' academic achievements, publication outputs, and research potential, as well as the relevance of prior experience and expertise. The fellowship is available for a period of one year, renewable for up to two years subject to satisfactory performance and available funding.
Duties and responsibilities:
• Conduct innovative research in the following areas: Water footprint assessment of agri-food products; climate finance to incentivise water users to use water sustainably; virtual water trade to save water; setting of blue water footprint caps for river basins.
• Author/co-author at least three (3) publication outputs per year in the form of ISI–accredited scholarly journal articles or books/chapters in books. The renewal of the fellowship beyond the first year depends on satisfactory performance and the submission of an annual progress report.
• Initiate projects and seek funding.
• Register and reside as a postdoctoral research fellow at the UFS and participate in relevant activities of the School of Postgraduate Studies and the Directorate of Research Development.
Eligibility criteria
• Open to all South African and foreign nationals for full-time research at the University of the Free State.
• Graduated with a PhD degree in a relevant discipline within the last five years.
• Successful applicants may not hold full-time salaried employment during the fellowship.
• Successful applicants must be able to relocate to the UFS in Bloemfontein for the duration of the fellowship. This is a residential fellowship: the successful applicant is required to spend 80% of her/his postdoctoral period at the UFS.
• Prior experience in presenting research papers at conferences and/or seminars.
• Authored/co-authored academic publications.
Value of the fellowship:
• R 270 000 annual fellowship (tax-free)
• R30 000 running expenses funds
Application:
To apply, please email the following documentation by 7 June 2026 to Prof Henry Jordaan at JordaanH@ufs.ac.za
Late applications will not be considered.
Competencies
Comprehensive applications are invited, comprising of:
• Motivational letter, including a 1-2-page outline of relevant expertise and experience.
• Full CV including a list of research publications, conference papers and other scholarly output.
• Full transcripts of academic record and copy of doctoral degree certificate.
• A SAQA Certificate for qualifications obtained outside South Africa.
• Copy of ID document (or copy of passport in the case of foreign applicants).
• Contact details of two academic referees who have taught/supervised the candidate.
Closing date: 7 June 2026
Commencement of fellowship: 01 July 2026
For inquiries, please contact: Prof Henry Jordaan at jordaanh@ufs.ac.za
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 Plan is available at: ufs-employment-equity-plan_2025.pdf
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.
How to apply to this job
Application:
To apply, please email the following documentation by 7 June 2026 to Prof Henry Jordaan at JordaanH@ufs.ac.za
Late applications will not be considered.
Additional Information
Postdoctoral Research Fellowship (1-year contract, renewable up to 2 years) (Job ID: 6464)
SENIOR OFFICER: BUSINESS DEVELOPER (POST LEVEL 9): KOVSIE PHAHAMISA ACADEMY (JOB ID: 6466)
Organizational Unit University of the Free State -> Vice- Chancellor and Principal -> Top Management
Contract Type Permanent
Occupational Level Junior Management
Location Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)
Closing Date 5/6/2026
Description
KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll - Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered.
The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.
INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!
To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:
• A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
• Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
• A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for foreign nationals).
• Confirmation of employment in the form of a letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or recent payslip from your current or most recent employer (applicable to external applicants only).
Duties and responsibilities:
• Identify new business opportunities that align with the strategic objectives of the UFS.
• Develop and implement business development strategies to expand UFS's short learning programme (SLP) offerings and market reach.
• Establish and maintain strategic partnerships with industry, government, and community stakeholders.
• Conduct market research to inform programme development, pricing, and positioning.
• Analyse trends in skills development, short learning programmes, and micro credentials to guide innovation.
• Promote SLPs through targeted marketing campaigns across digital and traditional platforms.
• Design and execute integrated marketing plans that enhance brand visibility and stakeholder engagement.
• Manage Kovsie Phahamisa Academy's (KPHA) digital presence, including website content, social media platforms, and online campaigns.
• Collaborate with academic departments to align offerings with market needs and institutional priorities.
• Coordinate the development of marketing materials, including brochures, proposals, and presentations.
• Engage prospective clients and partners through presentations, networking events, and direct outreach.
• Prepare and submit proposals, concept notes, and funding applications in line with institutional policies.
• Monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of marketing and business development initiatives.
• Track key performance indicators and generate reports to inform decision-making and strategy refinement.
• Ensure compliance with institutional branding, policies, and quality assurance requirements.
• Support the financial sustainability of KPHA by contributing to revenue generation and cost-effective practices.
• Facilitate stakeholder communication and relationship management to enhance client satisfaction and retention.
• Represent the UFS at internal and external forums, exhibitions, and industry engagements.
• Drive innovation in programme packaging, delivery modes, and certification pathways.
• Contribute to the continuous improvement of UFS's offerings and operational processes.
Inherent Job Requirements:
• Bachelor’s degree or an Advanced Diploma/BTech degree on NQF Level 7 in a Marketing or Business-related field.
• Minimum of two (2) years' relevant experience in business development, including but not limited to: developing and implementing marketing or business development initiatives; engaging with internal and external stakeholders; preparing proposals, presentations, or business-related reports; coordinating projects or initiatives across multiple stakeholders.
• A valid driver’s licence (attach a copy).
Recommendations:
• A relevant Honours degree on NQF Level 8.
• Experience within higher education, short learning programmes, continuing education, or skills development environments.
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 carefully analyse information and use logic to address issues and problems at work.
• Business Acumen:
- The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
- Proficient in using MS Office.
• Leading:
- The ability to lead, take charge of situations, and offer opinions and directions to others.
- The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.
• Building Coalitions:
- The ability to negotiate, sell, influence and to persuade others.
- The ability to interact with others and establish personal connections with people.
Assumption of duties: As soon as possible.
Closing date: 5 June 2026
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 051 401 9813 or email PhokaR@ufs.ac.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 2979 / 2876 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 Plan is available at:
ufs-employment-equity-plan_2025.pdf
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.