Job Description

Advert reference:

uj_001888

Advert status:

Online

Apply by:

6 April 2025

Position Summary

Industry:

Education & Training

Job category:

Education and Training

Campus:

Auckland Park Kingsway Campus

Contract:

Permanent

Remuneration:

Market related

EE position:

Open to all

Level:

Skilled

Introduction

The University of Johannesburg (UJ) is a vibrant and cosmopolitan institution, guided by its bold UJ Strategy 2035, which emphasises Societal Impact and Sustainability, Global Footprint and Partnerships, and Technology for the Future. Committed to transformative change, UJ's mission is "To transform and serve humanity through innovation and the collective and collaborative pursuit of knowledge." The University is guided by the vision of building "An international university of choice, anchored in Africa and the global south, dynamically shaping a sustainable future".

Job description

The Department of Biochemistry, within the Faculty of Science, is a hub for teaching, research and training, integrating Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies such as AI, machine learning and omics sciences to address global challenges in health, biotechnology, and sustainability. Located on APK Campus in Auckland Park, Johannesburg, the department also offers first-year courses at DFC Campus (Doornfontein). With a focus on interdisciplinary research and societal impact, the department advances healthcare, agriculture and environmental conservation, equipping students with future-ready skills in an evolving scientific landscape.

The Senior Lecturer will play a key role in teaching, research, postgraduate supervision, and academic leadership. The incumbent will contribute to the development and delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, engage in high-impact research and foster collaborations to enhance the department's national and international standing.

Responsibilities:

Teaching & Learning

Create an inclusive and supportive learning environment that fosters student success. Implement innovative teaching strategies, including blended learning and technology-assisted teaching. Deliver structured and effective teaching, learning, and assessment in alignment with the timetable.

Research & Innovation

Embed research and innovation into education by integrating cutting-edge scientific advancements. Participate in departmental research activities, including research groups and postgraduate supervision. Expand national and international collaborations to strengthen academic partnerships. Secure external funding and foster industry and research partnerships to enhance financial sustainability.

Academic Administration

Manage and coordinate teaching, learning, and research administration at Departmental, Faculty, and University levels. Oversee curriculum management, student records, and compliance with institutional policies. Support research administration, including grant applications, ethics approvals, and reporting. Leverage digital tools to enhance operational efficiency in academic processes.

Community Engagement & Societal Impact

Contribute to institutional and community development through strategic initiatives. Embed societal impact and sustainability in research, innovation, and community engagement. Lead and participate in outreach, service activities, and community-driven projects.

Professional & Leadership Development

Engage in continuous professional development to stay at the forefront of scientific advancements. Actively pursue career growth opportunities, including certifications and specialized training. Develop and refine leadership qualities to contribute to academic, research, and institutional excellence.

Minimum requirements

Qualifications:

PhD in Biochemistry or a closely related field.

Experience:

Proven teaching and lecturing experience at the undergraduate level. Experience in developing, delivering and assessing undergraduate and postgraduate laboratory practicals. Proficiency in designing, executing and evaluating assessments aligned with modern pedagogical practices. Active engagement in research, with a track record of presenting and publishing findings. Demonstrated potential for postgraduate supervision and mentorship. Evidence of potential to establish and lead an independent research group.

Knowledge & Competencies:

Strong foundational and applied expertise in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology. Advanced knowledge of disciplinary trends, techniques and emerging research areas. Competency in integrating digital tools and 4IR technologies into research and teaching.

Competencies and Behavioural Attributes:

Advanced disciplinary knowledge in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology. Experience in theoretical and practical teaching at the undergraduate level, with a strong grasp of modern pedagogical approaches. Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English, with the ability to engage diverse audiences effectively. Proficiency in digital tools and technology, including e-learning platforms, data analysis software, and researchtools. Strong planning, organizational, and time management skills to effectively coordinate teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities.

Behavioural Attributes:

Ability to inspire and motivate students, fostering an engaging and supportive learning environment. Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, with a collaborative mindset to work effectively with colleagues and students. Passion for Biochemistry, demonstrated through enthusiasm for teaching, research, and scientific inquiry. Resilience and adaptability, with the ability to perform effectively under pressure and meet deadlines in a dynamic academic setting.

Recommendations:

Experience in academic leadership, including managing student assistants, laboratory demonstrators and tutors. Proven ability to coordinate and manage laboratory operations efficiently. Expertise in teaching large classes, ensuring student engagement and effective knowledge delivery. Proficiency in learning management systems such as Moodle or similar E-teaching platforms, with experience inblended and technology-assisted learning. Postgraduate teaching and supervisory experience, with the ability to mentor and guide emerging researchers.

Enquiries:

Enquiries regarding job content:

Dr Msizi Mhlongo (Head of Department) at Tel: (011) 559 4555

Enquiries regarding remuneration and benefits:

Mr Lubabalo Mgedezi (HCM Business Partner) at Tel. (011) 559 3010


Your application, comprising of a detailed Curriculum Vitae as well as the names and full contact details (including telephone numbers and e-mail addresses) of at least three traceable and credible referees must be uploaded before or on the closing date of the advertised post. Please also attach the following: a copy of your highest academic qualification, proof of registration with professional bodies you might belong to and if applying for an academic position, a list of accredited research output and/ or a portfolio of your creative output.


If you require technical support / assistance on the UJ e-recruitment website, please contact our service provider PNET on the following contact details:

0861 227337/010 140 3099

or email ujsupport@pnet.co.za.


Candidates may be subjected to appropriate psychometric testing and other selection instruments.

In conjunction to merit on the basis of qualifications, experience and proven achievements the University of Johannesburg is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities and those individuals from the historically disadvantaged groups.

As necessitated by operational requirements the University reserves the right not to make an appointment to positions advertised. If you have not received a response from the University within 8 weeks of the closing date, you should assume that your application has been unsuccessful.