Lecturer/Senior Lecturer in Soil Science - (1068) at University of the Free State

Duties and responsibilities:

• Actively contribute to and further advance the teaching and research agenda of our soil science section, which plays a central role in the agricultural cluster at the UFS.
• Lecture / teach undergraduate modules in the field of soil science and the supervision of research activities conducted by MSc and PhD students.
• Function as an independent researcher and set up and carry out research activities that lead to relevant scientific outputs and contribute to the wider goals of improving and managing soil resources sustainably in South Africa and beyond.
• Engage with a diversity of stakeholders, including academic collaborators, funding agencies, the industry and government.

Inherent Job requirements:
Lecturer

• A PhD in Soil Science or related discipline on NQF Level 10 (for a permanent appointment) 
• OR
• Master’s degree in Soil Science or related discipline on NQF Level 9 (contract appointment: five years during which a PhD in Soil Science or related discipline on NQF Level 10 MUST be obtained to be converted to a permanent position). 
• 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.

Senior Lecturer

• PhD on NQF Level 10 in Soil Science or a closely related field.
• 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:

• Expertise in Soil Science, underpinned by a credible track record of scientific publications in internationally recognised journals. 
• Expertise in the field of soil chemistry and soil fertility is an advantage.
• Broad set of research skills (setting up experiments, data collection and analysis, dissemination of research results, etc), and a flexible mindset to take advantage of the diverse opportunities for soil science research arising.
• Ability to attract research funding.
• Experience with lecturing and the supervision of MSc and PhD students.

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 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.
• Good communication skills.

Leading:

• The ability to maintain high levels of personal motivation, energy and enthusiasm.
• The ability to lead, take charge of situations, and offer opinions and directions to others. 

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

Closing Date

13/8/2023