Job 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.Duties and responsibilities:

• Develop and implement strategies for biological control of plant parasitic nematodes, with an emphasis on agricultural and horticultural systems.
• Interact with the public regarding Nematology, Invertebrate Zoology, and related queries.
• Obtain external funding (3rd stream income).
• Supervise research undertaken by postgraduate (MSc and PhD) students.
• Responsible for teaching and learning in undergraduate and postgraduate (B.Sc. Honours) programmes in Zoology. This includes lectures, tutorials, practical classes (preparation and presentation), assessments and seminars.
• Manage administrative tasks and academic planning (curriculum development etc.) in the department and where applicable at university level.

Inherent requirements:
Senior Lecturer

• PhD on NQF Level 10 in Zoology/Biology/Environmental Science (Invertebrate Zoology focusing on Nematology).
• Proven laboratory experience (qPCR, NGS, phylogenetic analysis), experimental design and management of a potential diagnostic lab.
• Proven research record of relevant publications in national and international accredited journals (at least 5-10), including representative publications as lead author.
• Proven experience in presenting papers/posters at national and international scholarly conferences.
• Proven experience of service as an active member of a national or international scholarly society, committee, or agency concerned with research at higher education levels.
• Proven undergraduate teaching experience at a higher education institution.
• Proven experience in the supervision of graduated master's students.
• An NRF rating or demonstrated potential for obtaining an NRF rating or equivalent.

Recommendations:

• Research expertise in taxonomy, systems, ecology, and phylogenetic analysis, specifically in the discipline of Nematology (plant-parasitic or free-living nematodes), will be advantageous.
• Proven experience with interacting and collaborating with industry.
• The successful candidate will be expected to expand the Department's research activities, with a focus in Nematology.

CompetenciesRequired competencies:

• 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 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 be self-assured and at ease with people in all types of social situations.
- The ability to make decisions through consultation, collaboration and working with close supervision.Please ensure that all relevant documentation is attached to your application.

• A detailed curriculum vitae and cover letter.
• Copies of qualifications (please provide the SAQA accreditation in the case of foreign qualifications).
• Copies of all academic records (applicable where inherently required).
• A copy of your identity document (ID or passport in the case of foreign nationals).
• Proof of registration with a Professional Body (if applicable).
• A copy of your driver's license (if applicable).
• Confirmation of employment from current employer / last employer if unemployed (only applicable to external applicants).

Assumption of duties:
As soon as possible.Closing date:
21 July 2024.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 9848/ 9810/ 9813/ 9814/ 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 Policy is available at : EEA13_EE Plan UFS 1 March 2022 (003).pdfThe 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

University of the Free State