Researcher/Senior Researcher in Ecologies in the RASC (Contract Post) at Rhodes University

Main Objectives

• Research is the main focus, and teaching is not a core function.  Where the researchers are on contract, raising funds for their employment, contract research shall be regarded as equivalent to more traditional forms of research.
• In assessing the candidate’s scholarship for promotion, consideration will be given to the individual's track record.  While disciplinary differences are considered, the candidate must demonstrate standing within the discipline through their research and student research. 
• This could mean that the individual has demonstrated leadership, made a major contribution to research projects, served as the lead author on publications, or consistently contributed to multiple publications throughout their academic career.

The Requirements

Researcher

• PhD in Environmental Sciences, Physical Geography, Ecology, Climatology, Hydrology, Water Resource Science, Political Ecology, Environmental Humanities, Environmental Education and Learning, or related fields.
• Some experience in areas related to the Research Section's research, especially in inter- and transdisciplinary research linking bio-physical methods and concepts in the Natural Sciences with methods and concepts in the Humanities and Social Sciences.
• Emerging publication profiles in leading journals in the field of study, with some of these publications addressing inter- and/or transdisciplinary topics.
• Some experience in participating in interdisciplinary and/or collaborative projects and/or programmes.
• Evidence of attendance and presentation at local conferences. Presentation at international conferences will be an added advantage.
• Some administrative experience, albeit in informal contexts, e.g., student or sports clubs work experience.

Senior Researcher

• PhD in Environmental Sciences, Physical Geography, Ecology, Climatology, Hydrology, Water Resource Science, Political Ecology, Environmental Humanities, Environmental Education and Learning, or related fields.
• Evidence of extensive experience and demonstrated expertise in areas related to the research of the Research Section, especially in inter- and transdisciplinary research linking bio-physical methods and concepts in the Natural Sciences with methods and concepts in Humanities and Social Sciences.
• A strong publication record in leading journals in the field of study, with a special focus on inter- and transdisciplinary topics.
• Research supervision of at least a Master’s degree is required. Supervision at the PhD level will be an added advantage.
• Experience in leading and/or coordinating interdisciplinary and/or collaborative research projects and/or programmes.
• Evidence of attendance and presentation in local and preferably international conferences.
• Emerging national profile in the discipline.
• Track record of administration, management, and/or leadership roles (leadership roles may be informal).

Closing Date 10 August 2026