Lecturer- Linguistics at University of Western Cape

Role Clarification & Key Performance Area

• The Department of Linguistics has a vacancy for a suitably qualified candidate for the post of Lecturer in Linguistics/Applied Linguistics. The Department has strengths in the areas of multilingualism, sociolinguistics, systemic functional linguistics, formal/theoretical linguistics, forensic linguistics, communication, (critical) media studies, social semiotics and multimodality, literacy and critical discourse analysis.
• The Department seeks to appoint an individual with relevant experience to teach courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in linguistics, communication and/or media studies as well as in a selection of other focus areas within the Department.  
• In addition, the candidate is expected to supervise postgraduate students’, conduct research and contribute to research both in established and emerging areas of the Department’s interests.

The successful candidate will be expected to:

• Teach courses at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in linguistics, communication and/or media studies as well as in a selection of the above-mentioned areas, and provide leadership and innovation in learning and teaching.
• Leverage their research standing to enhance the profile of the Department in relevant academic networks.
• Supervise postgraduate students in linguistics, communication and/or media studies, in addition to mentoring students.
• Serve on a range of committees and contribute to some administrative duties at departmental level e.g., co-ordination of module or departmental representative on faculty committee.
• Establish and maintain community outreach activities in accordance with their speciality and consistent with the University's Institutional Operating Plan.

Minimum Requirements

• Master’s degree or (enrolment or near completion) in a PhD in Linguistics/Applied Linguistics with a specialisation in, among others, linguistics, communication and/or media studies.
• 1 Publication in an accredited journal or an equivalent recognised output, commensurate with the position of Lecturer in a research-led institution.
• A minimum of two years of teaching or tutoring experience at undergraduate and/or postgraduate level.  Demonstrated ability to plan, deliver, and assess at least one full course or module.  
• Evidence of contribution to curriculum development, design of learning materials, or adaptation of content to meet student needs.  Use of inclusive, student-centred teaching practices, with demonstrated responsiveness to student and/or peer feedback.
• Proficiency in or ability to work with African languages (this includes Afrikaans).

Recommendations/Added advantages:

• Co-supervision of postgraduate students (at Honours and Master’s level).
• Knowledge of developments in contemporary communication and media and ability to use relevant online learning management systems.
• Demonstrated evidence of knowledge of linguistics, communication and/or critical media studies.
• PhD in Linguistics/Applied Linguistics/African Languages.

Closing Date

• 30/10/2026