The University of Pretoria (UP), one of South Africa’s leading research institutions, invites applications for prestigious academic positions in two departments under the Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences. If you are an experienced professional in Agricultural Extension or Hydrogeology, UP offers an incredible platform for career advancement, teaching, and cutting-edge research.
This blog will detail two outstanding opportunities at UP for academic professionals who aspire to contribute to the university’s commitment to excellence and global impact in research and education.
1. Professor / Associate Professor / Senior Lecturer in Agricultural Extension
Department: Agricultural Economics, Extension, and Rural Development
Reference Number: Job ID 25874
Closing Date: 24 March 2025
Location: Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria
The Department of Agricultural Economics, Extension, and Rural Development is seeking a Professor, Associate Professor, or Senior Lecturer in Agricultural Extension. This position is an excellent opportunity for professionals passionate about advancing knowledge in agricultural extension, rural development, and community engagement.
Key Responsibilities:
- Teaching: Deliver undergraduate and postgraduate modules in agricultural extension.
- Research: Conduct high-level research and publish articles in internationally accredited journals.
- Supervision: Supervise postgraduate students (Honours, Masters, PhD) and guide them through their research projects.
- Fundraising: Raise funds to support ongoing and new research initiatives.
- Community Engagement: Lead community-based projects and initiatives aligned with UP’s mission.
- Academic Administration: Participate in departmental and faculty administration and contribute to strategic direction.
Minimum Qualifications:
Senior Lecturer:
- Bachelor’s, Masters, and PhD in Agricultural Extension.
- Five years of teaching and research experience in Agricultural Extension.
- At least 10 publications in accredited journals.
- Evidence of successful supervision/co-supervision of Master’s students.
Associate Professor:
- All requirements for Senior Lecturer plus:
- Proven record of supervising/co-supervising PhD students.
- Three more years of teaching and research experience at a tertiary or research institution.
- Recognized academic standing in the field.
Professor:
- All requirements for Associate Professor plus:
- Proven graduation record for PhD students in Agricultural Extension.
- Established internationally recognized research record.
- Ability to design and implement curriculum content.
Added Advantages:
- Expertise in extension program planning, human and organizational behavior change, and rural development studies will be beneficial.
2. Lecturer (Hydrogeologist)
Department: Geology
Reference Number: Job ID 25873
Closing Date: 24 March 2025
Location: Natural and Agricultural Sciences, University of Pretoria
The Department of Geology seeks a Lecturer (Hydrogeologist) to join the Engineering Geology and Hydrogeology section. This role offers a fantastic opportunity for professionals passionate about hydrogeology and environmental sciences, with a focus on groundwater research and teaching.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lecturing: Teach undergraduate and honours-level students in geology and hydrogeology.
- Research Collaboration: Acquire research funding and collaborate with external institutions.
- Postgraduate Supervision: Supervise students at Honours, MSc, and PhD levels.
- Publishing: Publish in ISI journals and guide postgraduate students in their research.
Minimum Qualifications:
- An MSc in an applied geological field, ideally with specialization in hydrogeology (PhD preferred).
- At least six months of teaching experience in a university environment.
Added Advantages:
- Experience in groundwater modeling with tools like FEFLOW or MODFLOW.
- Postgraduate supervision experience.
- Industry experience in hydrogeology is highly beneficial.
Required Competencies:
- Capability to teach specialized content in hydrogeology.
- Ability to organize and lead field trips independently.
- Passion for teaching and research, inspiring students at all levels.
Why Choose the University of Pretoria?
The University of Pretoria is one of the top research universities in South Africa and globally recognized for its commitment to academic excellence, innovation, and cutting-edge research. As a faculty member, you will have the opportunity to work in a world-class academic environment that fosters multidisciplinary research, community engagement, and international collaboration.
Key Benefits:
- Competitive remuneration packages based on your level of appointment.
- Access to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid schemes, with 50% contribution towards premiums.
- A chance to work in state-of-the-art facilities and contribute to projects that have a tangible impact on society.
How to Apply:
To apply for these positions:
- Visit the UP Careers Portal: www.up.ac.za.
- Complete the UP application form and upload the following documents:
- A comprehensive CV in UP format.
- Certified copies of your qualifications.
- Contact details of three referees.
- A teaching portfolio and self-evaluation.
- A career vision for the next 5-8 years.
For application-related queries, contact Ms. A Hlatshwayo at art.hlatshwayo@up.ac.za. For content-related inquiries, contact Prof. Zegeye (Agricultural Extension role) at (012) 420 3251 or Prof. James Roberts (Hydrogeology role) at (012) 420 3765.
Closing Date:
- 24 March 2025: No applications will be accepted after this date.