Research Professor / Director at Durban University of Technology

 Minimum Requirements

• A doctoral degree (PhD or equivalent) in Computer Science, Information Systems, Engineering, Applied Mathematics, Systems Science or a closely related field.
• A sustained record of high-impact research and publications in systems science, modelling or related disciplines.
• Demonstrated experience in supervising postgraduate students (M & D level).
• At least 8–10 years of post-doctoral research experience, with evidence of innovation outputs (e.g., patents, commercialisation).
• Proven ability to secure competitive research funding and build multi-sector partnerships (industry, government, academia).
• Leadership experience in higher education, research institutes or relevant industry research units.

Key Responsibilities

As Research Professor

• Develop and lead a coherent research portfolio in systems science, modelling and simulation.
• Mentor and supervise academic staff and postgraduate researchers across the Institute.
• Contribute to curriculum development for existing and new postgraduate programmes.
• Publish regularly in high-ranking journals and present at international conferences.

As Director (Secondment)

• Provide strategic leadership and operational management for the Institute of Systems Science.
• Drive the Institute’s research excellence, innovation initiatives and external engagement, aligned with DUT’s strategic goals (ENVISION2030).
• Cultivate and manage collaborations with industry, government and academic partners to enhance the Institute’s impact.
• Oversee effective governance, resource management and reporting within the Institute.
• Secure external research funding and philanthropic support to sustain and grow the Institute.

Term of Appointment

• The initial appointment is to the post of Research Professor.
• The successful appointee will be seconded to the Director role for 12 months, the professorial appointment remains substantive throughout.
• Secondment may be extended subject to performance review and institutional approval.