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UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE STATE (UFS) VACANCIES
UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE STATE (UFS)
CHIEF OFFICER: SPECIALIST WRITER (POST LEVEL 8) (JOB ID : 6325)
Organizational Unit University of the Free State -> Vice- Chancellor and Principal -> Communication and Marketing
Contract Type Permanent
Occupational Level Junior Management
Location Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)
Closing Date 25/1/2026
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:
High-Impact Writing and Editing:
• Support the Vice-Chancellor and Principal’s stakeholder engagement programme and content calendar by producing high-level speeches, articles, and digital content for use by the DCM’s Content Hub. This includes research on topics and engaging with relevant role-players to source information.
• Support the university’s Executive Communication Strategy by producing high-level content such as speeches, articles, and social media content. This includes research on topics, analysis of content relevant content, and engaging with members of the executive committee.
• Write a broad range of high-quality written materials including feature stories, opinion pieces, research breakthroughs, and digital content for the DCM’s Content Hub. This includes collaboration with faculties and other stakeholders to source content.
• Craft compelling narratives that reflect the university’s tone and brand voice that will engage a wide range of audiences, from prospective students and alumni to media outlets and public stakeholders.
• Actively participate in and contribute to the DCM’s Content Hub, curating and optimising content across platforms for cohesive communication. This includes ensuring timely presentation of all content in multimedia formats, enhancing usability across digital, print, and social media platforms.
• Assist the news editor with Content Hub duties (chairing, news list, publications and platform productions).
• Assist the Assistant Director: Internal Communication with the production of institutional magazines such as the Bult and Dumela.
• Conduct regular reviews of institutional content, updating and refining language to reflect the university’s evolving priorities and vision.
• Provide guidance on writing and editing best practices to the DCM’s Content Hub to ensure quality and consistency across all communication channels.
Stakeholder Engagement and Collaboration
• Serve as a writer for the Vice-Chancellor and Principal and members of the university’s executive management, translating leadership’s vision and ideas into impactful communication according to the university’s Executive Communication Strategy.
• Work closely with departmental heads, academic leaders, and external partners to develop and refine content that supports the UFS’s goals.
• Establish strong working relationships with other departments to ensure alignment and to promote cross-functional initiatives.
Project Management and Conceptualising Integrated Communication Campaigns and Projects
• Oversee and execute the end-to-end management of high-priority campaigns, projects, ensuring timely delivery and alignment with strategic priorities.
• Draft and execute communication plans for key institutional intergrade communication campaigns and projects.
• Coordinate the production of visually compelling materials for departmental integrated communication campaigns and projects in cooperation with the Unit for Reputation, Brand, and Marketing Management.
• Develop timelines and content calendars for major communication initiatives, ensuring alignment with university milestones.
Content Strategy Development
• Develop and execute a strategic content plan for the Department of Communication and Marketing (DCM) in alignment with the DCM’s Communication and Marketing Strategy and the university’s communication goals, vision, and values.
• Ad-hoc support of the university’s media strategy.
Market Research and Benchmarking:
• Stay informed on industry best practices, higher education trends, and emerging communication platforms to enhance content effectiveness.
• Conduct research on peer institutions’ communications and adapt innovative strategies that align with UFS’s objectives.
• Track and analyse content performance metrics, adjusting strategies based on data insights and audience feedback.
Inherent requirements:
• Bachelor's degree/BTech/Advanced Diploma (NQF Level 7).
• Minimum of three (3) years' relevant working experience relating to the duties and responsibilities.
• Demonstrated and extensive experience in content research and speech writing on an executive level for the higher education or corporate sectors (this experience must be clearly detailed in the CV or supported by attached evidence).
Recommendations:
• Experience in content research and writing high-quality, impactful content for the higher education sector, including the writing of speeches and opinion articles.
• Familiarity with multimedia production, including digital content creation.
• Basic project management skills.
• Prior experience in public relations, with a focus on institutional communication.
• Advanced computer skills, especially in MS Word and PowerPoint.
• Basic photography skills.
• Valid driver’s license.
Competencies
• Results Orientated:
- The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations.
- The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.
• Strategic Thinking:
- The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
- The ability to plan work and to follow plans.
• 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: 25 January 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.ac.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 7659/9813 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: EEA13Report_UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE STATE FINAL SEP 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
Chief Officer: Specialist Writer (Post Level 8) (Job ID : 6325)
PLEASE APPLY HERE
POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP (1-YEAR CONTRACT, RENEWABLE UP TO 3 YEARS): DEPARTMENT OF GENETICS (JOB ID 6323)
Organizational Unit University of the Free State -> Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences -> Department Genetics
Contract Type Contract
Occupational Level Temporary
Location Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)
Closing Date 31/1/2026
Description
The University of the Free State (UFS) invites applications from suitably qualified candidates for a postdoctoral fellowship in the Department of Genetics. Candidates interested in pursuing an academic or professional career in fungal genomics and applications of medicinal and mycotoxigenic fungi, with special research interest in the African context, are encouraged to apply.
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 three years, subject to satisfactory performance.
Duties and responsibilities:
• Conduct innovative research in the following areas: Fungal genomics and transcriptomics, fungal biosystematics, medicinal fungi, mycotoxins, mushroom cultivation.
• Author/co-author at least three (3) publication outputs per year in the form of DHET–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 for them.
• Register and reside as a postdoctoral research fellow at the UFS and participate in relevant activities of the Centre for Graduate Support and the Directorate of Research.
Eligibility requirements:
• 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 for the duration of the fellowship. This is a residential fellowship: the successful applicant is required to spend 80% of their postdoctoral period at the UFS.
Value of the fellowship:
• R 270 000 annual fellowship
• R 30 000 additional research expenses fund
Competencies
Application:
To apply, please email the following documentation by 31 January 2026 to Prof. Marieka Gryzenhout, Gryzenhoutm@ufs.ac.za
• Motivation 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 outputs demonstrating relevant experience in the field of Conservation Genetics.
• Full transcripts of academic record and copy of doctoral degree certificate.
• 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: 31 January 2026
Commencement of fellowship: 01 April 2026
For enquiries, please contact: Prof. Marieka Gryzenhout (Gryzenhoutm@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 Policy is available at: EEA13Report_UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE STATE FINAL SEP 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
Gryzenhoutm@ufs.ac.za
POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOWSHIP (1-YEAR CONTRACT, RENEWABLE UP TO 3 YEARS): DEPARTMENT OF GENETICS (JOB ID 6323)
Organizational Unit University of the Free State -> Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences -> Department Genetics
Contract Type Contract
Occupational Level Temporary
Location Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)
Closing Date 31/1/2026
Description
The University of the Free State (UFS) invites applications from suitably qualified candidates for a postdoctoral fellowship in the Department of Genetics. Candidates interested in pursuing an academic or professional career in fungal genomics and applications of medicinal and mycotoxigenic fungi, with special research interest in the African context, are encouraged to apply.
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 three years, subject to satisfactory performance.
Duties and responsibilities:
• Conduct innovative research in the following areas: Fungal genomics and transcriptomics, fungal biosystematics, medicinal fungi, mycotoxins, mushroom cultivation.
• Author/co-author at least three (3) publication outputs per year in the form of DHET–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 for them.
• Register and reside as a postdoctoral research fellow at the UFS and participate in relevant activities of the Centre for Graduate Support and the Directorate of Research.
Eligibility requirements:
• 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 for the duration of the fellowship. This is a residential fellowship: the successful applicant is required to spend 80% of their postdoctoral period at the UFS.
Value of the fellowship:
• R 270 000 annual fellowship
• R 30 000 additional research expenses fund
Competencies
Application:
To apply, please email the following documentation by 31 January 2026 to Prof. Marieka Gryzenhout, Gryzenhoutm@ufs.ac.za
• Motivation 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 outputs demonstrating relevant experience in the field of Conservation Genetics.
• Full transcripts of academic record and copy of doctoral degree certificate.
• 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: 31 January 2026
Commencement of fellowship: 01 April 2026
For enquiries, please contact: Prof. Marieka Gryzenhout (Gryzenhoutm@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 Policy is available at: EEA13Report_UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE STATE FINAL SEP 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
Gryzenhoutm@ufs.ac.za
SENIOR OFFICER: MARKETING AND COMMUNICATIONS (POST LEVEL 9) (JOB ID: 6321)
Organizational Unit University of the Free State -> Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences -> Office of the Dean: Faculty of Economic and Management Sciences
Contract Type Permanent
Occupational Level Junior Management
Location Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)
Closing Date 22/1/2026
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:
• Develop, design, and coordinate marketing materials for the faculty’s academic programmes (such as brochures, information guides, faculty videos) and all faculty events, and compile newsletters profiling the faculty's achievements.
• Ensure all content aligns with the UFS branding guidelines to promote the faculty’s identity consistently across all platforms.
• Manage the faculty’s social media channel, Facebook, to create an engaging online presence, profiling all faculty/newsworthy events.
• Monitor social media analytics, specifically Facebook, to assess engagement and compile a quarterly report of this information for the Faculty Marketing and Communication Committee
• Attend and actively contribute to the Faculty Marketing & Communication Committee, providing quarterly reports on faculty developments and gathering information from internal and external stakeholders to ensure timely and accurate marketing and communication updates, including quarterly faculty website updates via Sitefinity.
• Maintain content that is current, relevant, and aligned with UFS’s overall digital strategy.
• Ensure timely updates regarding faculty staff changes and the content of marketing brochures.
• Ensure all faculty event content is posted/shared in a timely manner to coincide with the event's occurrence and maximise relevance and engagement.
• Develop and execute content strategies for faculty events and recruitment activities, gathering information from faculty staff.
• Prepare draft media releases on newsworthy faculty events and staff and student achievements for approval by the Department of Communications and Marketing (DCM).
• Collaborate with external vendors and designers, when required, to develop high-quality visuals and multimedia content.
• Support and represent the faculty at annual institutional events, specifically career expos and open days.
• Plan and execute annual institutional events, including career expos and open days, on behalf of the faculty.
• Plan and coordinate faculty events initiated by the Deanery, coordinating event logistics, from booking venues, procurement, and managing catering to overseeing promotional efforts and post-event follow-ups.
• Support the planning and execution of departmental events within the faculty across campuses
• Ensure all events are aligned with faculty goals, enhancing both internal and external stakeholder engagement.
• Identify and mitigate risks associated with faculty events and marketing initiatives, ensuring compliance with institutional policies through the UFS events committee.
• Maintain contingency plans for events and address any issues that may arise in real-time, maintaining a smooth flow of operations.
• Serve as a point of contact between the faculty and relevant stakeholders (internal & external)
• Foster positive relationships with stakeholders, ensuring faculty projects align with university-wide initiatives and policies.
• Maintain regular communication with internal and external partners to ensure cohesive project delivery.
• Support and oversee the planning and execution of events hosted by the Commercio Student Body.
• Promote undergraduate, postgraduate and Business School formal programmes through various channels, including online platforms, such as Facebook, and career fairs.
• Organise exhibitions, career expos, and student recruitment events such as "UFS Open Day," enhancing faculty visibility to prospective students.
• Collaborate with faculty members to highlight unique aspects of current academic programmes, addressing frequently asked questions and student concerns.
• Attend scheduled school visits, subject selection evenings, and community events, representing the faculty and informing prospective students about programme offerings, in collaboration with Student Recruitment Services (SRS).
• Provide guidance on admissions requirements, available programmes, and career opportunities related to the faculty’s programmes to prospective students and parents.
• Establish relationships with high schools and other feeder institutions through various stakeholders.
• Support the collection of detailed information through reminding faculty staff to submit information on international collaborations, research partnerships, and other activities for the faculty internationalisation report, through the Internationalisation toolkit.
• Support faculty student exchange programmes.
• Represent the faculty on the Internationalisation Coordinators Forum (ICF)
• Act as a point of contact for international students within the faculty, alongside the International Office, thereby assisting with integration into the academic community.
• Draft and manage the annual budget for all relevant marketing activities that are related to faculty marketing.
• Monitor marketing expenditures against marketing budgetary allocations to ensure efficient use of resources for all marketing events and marketing materials that will effectively enhance the visibility of the faculty with a student-centered approach.
• Manage the allocated marketing budget effectively by prioritising in-house faculty and UFS resources before engaging external vendors, and coordinate with external suppliers for marketing materials and event equipment only when internal options are unavailable
Inherent requirements:
• Relevant Bachelor’s degree or an advanced diploma/BTech degree/postgraduate certificate on NQF Level 7 in Marketing, Communications, Public Relations, or related field.
• Minimum of 2 years’ relevant work experience relating to the duties and responsibilities.
Recommendations:
• An Honours degree in Marketing, Communications, or a related field
• Evidence of successful social media marketing experience.
• Experience within the higher-education environment.
• Knowledge of university systems, policies, procedures.
• Member of or registration with a professional body (i.e MASA, PRISA)(attach a copy)
Competencies
Required competencies:
• Results Orientated:
- The ability to set high standards, establish tough goals, and to work to achieve success.
- The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.
• 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.
- Strong communication skills.
- Proficient in using digital marketing tools.
- Proficient in using graphic design software (e.g. Canva).
• 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 negotiate, sell, influence and to persuade others.
- The ability to be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.
Assumption of duties: 1 April 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter
Closing date: 22 January 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.ac.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 2876/ 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: EEA13Report_UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE STATE FINAL SEP 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
Advert
PLEASE APPLY HERE
RESEARCHER (40 HOURS PER WEEK)(CONTRACT APPOINTMENT: 1 YEAR): DEPARTMENT OF CHEMISTRY (JOB ID 6309)
Organizational Unit University of the Free State -> Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences -> Department Chemistry
Contract Type Contract
Occupational Level Junior Management
Location Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)
Closing Date 18/1/2026
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.
Duties and responsibilities:
• Design and operate large-scale outdoor microalgal cultivation systems, specifically in large raceway ponds and large bioreactors with a total capacity of more than 40 000 litres.
• Develop protocols for the recovery of high-value compounds from microalgae with specific focus on vegan food applications.
• Responsible for the large-scale extraction process and downstream purification of high-value components.
• Implement strategies to minimize production costs, including developing low-cost cultivation media and improving outdoor bioreactor operation conditions.
• Explore innovative research strategies to treat wastewater with microalgae while achieving high bioremediation efficiencies.
• Lead and contribute to high-impact research projects including sustainable bioprocess engineering, advanced algal production, biofuel production and commercial production of valuable components of microalgae.
Inherent Job Requirements:
• A PhD on NQF Level 10 in Algal Biotechnology/ Industrial Biotechnology/ Biosciences/ Bioengineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of two (2) years of demonstrated experience in the cultivation of microalgae on a large scale at micro algae outdoor plants.
• Demonstrated experience in the extraction of high-value components from microalgal biomass.
• Expertise in a range of analytical techniques, including Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), and the determination of various fuel properties (viscosity, density, cetane index) and wastewater parameters (TOC, COD, nutrients).
• 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 (attach a copy).
Recommendations:
• Three (3) years' relevant experience in managing a microalgae plant and downstream initiatives.
• Postdoctoral research experience in a microalgal research unit.
• A strong record of high-impact publications.
Competencies
Key Competencies Required:
• Results-Oriented:
- The ability to stick with tasks, not give up, and overcome obstacles in completing one's task.
- The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.
• 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 be sensitive and understanding to the needs and feelings of others.
- The ability to make decisions through consultation, collaboration, and working with close supervision.
Required Documents
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).
Assumption of duties: As soon as possible.
Closing date: 18 January 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 me at 051 401 9813 or email at PhokaR@ufs.ac.za. Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 7659/2979 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:
EEA13Report_UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE STATE FINAL SEP 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.
PLEASE APPLY HERE
LECTURER (CONTRACT APPOINTMENT: 2 YEARS): DEPARTMENT OLD AND NEW TESTAMENT STUDIES (JOB ID: 6318)
Organizational Unit University of the Free State -> Faculty of Theology and Religion -> Department Old and New Testament Studies
Contract Type Contract
Occupational Level Junior Management
Location Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)
Closing Date 20/1/2026
Description
This post was previously advertised as Job ID 6274. 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.
Duties and Responsibilities:
• Present undergraduate and postgraduate modules in New Testament and undergraduate modules in New Testament Greek.
• Actively do research within the broader framework or New Testament and its interdisciplinary potential.
• Synthesise knowledge through the publication of scientific papers in peer-reviewed and DHET-accredited journals.
• Communicate research findings at scientific conferences.
• Source funding for research from international and national funding organisations.
• Participate actively in the professional community.
• Supervise postgraduate students at master’s and PhD levels.
• Participate actively in leadership and administration at Departmental and Faculty levels.
• Participate in various scholarly engagement opportunities at research, community engagement, or in-service learning levels.
Inherent Job Requirements:
• A PhD on NQF Level 10 in New Testament.
• Completed 16-32 credits of Greek on third-year level (NQF 7) with at least 8-16 credits in New Testament Greek and/or Early Christian Literature and/or Greek Rhetoric (preferably New Testament rhetoric) included over the years of study.
• 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 DHET-accredited journals.
• A good academic record (attach a copy).
Recommendation:
• Preference will be given to candidates with further graduate qualifications in Greek.
• Preference will be given to candidates with at least one (1) year of teaching experience in a higher education environment, at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
• Published at least two articles in accredited journals (National and International).
• The ability to teach with digital skills and competence.
• Experience with a Learning Management System (LMS) related to Higher Education Institutions (e.g. Blackboard) or related experience with institutional systems and the ability to navigate through them.
Competencies
Key Competencies required:
• Results Orientated:
- The ability to cope with a frequently changing environment and to adapt to evolving situations.
- The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.
• Strategic Thinking:
- The ability to be creative and open-minded when addressing work issues.
- 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 interact with others and establish personal connections with people.
- The ability to make decisions through consultation, collaboration and working with close supervision.
Required Documents
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).
Assumption of duties: 1 February 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
Closing date: 20 January 2025.
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 2558 / 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 EEA13 1 March 2025_28 Feb 2026
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.
PLEASE APPLY HERE