Senior Lecturer (Faculty of Science: Department of Biochemistry) at University of Johannesburg

Job description

• The Department of Biochemistry, within the Faculty of Science, is a hub for teaching, research and training, integrating Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) technologies such as AI, machine learning and omics sciences to address global challenges in health, biotechnology, and sustainability. Located on APK Campus in Auckland Park, Johannesburg, the department also offers first-year courses at DFC Campus (Doornfontein). With a focus on interdisciplinary research and societal impact, the department advances healthcare, agriculture and environmental conservation, equipping students with future-ready skills in an evolving scientific landscape.
• The Senior Lecturer will play a key role in teaching, research, postgraduate supervision, and academic leadership. The incumbent will contribute to the development and delivery of undergraduate and postgraduate programs, engage in high-impact research and foster collaborations to enhance the department’s national and international standing.

Responsibilities:

Teaching & Learning

• Create an inclusive and supportive learning environment that fosters student success.
• Implement innovative teaching strategies, including blended learning and technology-assisted teaching.
• Deliver structured and effective teaching, learning, and assessment in alignment with the timetable.

Research & Innovation

• Embed research and innovation into education by integrating cutting-edge scientific advancements.
• Participate in departmental research activities, including research groups and postgraduate supervision.
• Expand national and international collaborations to strengthen academic partnerships.
• Secure external funding and foster industry and research partnerships to enhance financial sustainability.

Academic Administration

• Manage and coordinate teaching, learning, and research administration at Departmental, Faculty, and University levels.
• Oversee curriculum management, student records, and compliance with institutional policies.
• Support research administration, including grant applications, ethics approvals, and reporting.
• Leverage digital tools to enhance operational efficiency in academic processes.

Community Engagement & Societal Impact

• Contribute to institutional and community development through strategic initiatives.
• Embed societal impact and sustainability in research, innovation, and community engagement.
• Lead and participate in outreach, service activities, and community-driven projects.

Professional & Leadership Development

• Engage in continuous professional development to stay at the forefront of scientific advancements.
• Actively pursue career growth opportunities, including certifications and specialized training.
• Develop and refine leadership qualities to contribute to academic, research, and institutional excellence.

Minimum requirements

Qualifications:

• PhD in Biochemistry or a closely related field.

Experience:

• Proven teaching and lecturing experience at the undergraduate level.
• Experience in developing, delivering and assessing undergraduate and postgraduate laboratory practicals.
• Proficiency in designing, executing and evaluating assessments aligned with modern pedagogical practices.
• Active engagement in research, with a track record of presenting and publishing findings.
• Demonstrated potential for postgraduate supervision and mentorship.
• Evidence of potential to establish and lead an independent research group.

Knowledge & Competencies:

• Strong foundational and applied expertise in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology.
• Advanced knowledge of disciplinary trends, techniques and emerging research areas.
• Competency in integrating digital tools and 4IR technologies into research and teaching.

Competencies and Behavioural Attributes:

• Advanced disciplinary knowledge in Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, and Biotechnology.
• Experience in theoretical and practical teaching at the undergraduate level, with a strong grasp of modern pedagogical approaches.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills in English, with the ability to engage diverse audiences effectively.
• Proficiency in digital tools and technology, including e-learning platforms, data analysis software, and researchtools.
• Strong planning, organizational, and time management skills to effectively coordinate teaching, research, and administrative responsibilities.

Behavioural Attributes:

• Ability to inspire and motivate students, fostering an engaging and supportive learning environment.
• Strong interpersonal and teamwork skills, with a collaborative mindset to work effectively with colleagues and students.
• Passion for Biochemistry, demonstrated through enthusiasm for teaching, research, and scientific inquiry.
• Resilience and adaptability, with the ability to perform effectively under pressure and meet deadlines in a dynamic academic setting.

Recommendations:

• Experience in academic leadership, including managing student assistants, laboratory demonstrators and tutors.
• Proven ability to coordinate and manage laboratory operations efficiently.
• Expertise in teaching large classes, ensuring student engagement and effective knowledge delivery.
• Proficiency in learning management systems such as Moodle or similar E-teaching platforms, with experience inblended and technology-assisted learning.
• Postgraduate teaching and supervisory experience, with the ability to mentor and guide emerging researchers.

Deadline: 6 April 2025