Lecturer

INNOVATION AFRICA @UP

FORESTRY AND AGRICULTURAL BIOTECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE (FABI)

LECTURER

In pursuit of the ideals of excellence and diversity, the University of Pretoria wishes to invite applications for the above vacancy.

The University of Pretoria’s commitment to quality makes us one of the top research Universities in the country and gives us a competitive advantage in international science and technology development.

FABI and linked to the Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology, wishes to make an appointment that will strengthen and grow the programme and institution’s research initiatives in the area of forest genomics, enviromics and climate change mitigation in the Forestry Molecular Genetics – Eucalyptus and Pine Pathogen Interactions programme.

RESPONSIBILITIES:

The incumbent will actively participate in the following areas:

• Strengthening the forest genomics and enviromics research niche in the FMG-EPPI programme;
• Assisting the FMG-EPPI Director in academic leadership of the programme;
• Mentoring and supervision of postgraduate students;
• Developing internal collaborations within FABI and UP;
• Developing and fostering international collaborations with world leaders in the field;
• Attracting third stream research funding and reporting towards existing grants;
• Supervision and Mentoring of Postgraduate students;
• Teaching and curriculum development at undergraduate postgraduate level;
• Participation in the FABI, Departmental and general UP’s strategic initiatives related to world class research;
• Participation in FABI and Departmental committees and/or task teams.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• A PhD-degree in Plant Genetics, Bioinformatics or a closely aligned discipline (NQF level 10 or equivalent);
• At least two (2) publications in ISI accredited scientific journals as first or senior author with a focus in genetics, genomics, bioinformatics or related fields;
• Proven experience in research mentorship at tertiary level;
• Evidence of teaching and/ or tutoring at tertiary level.

REQUIRED COMPETENCIES (SKILLS, KNOWLEDGE AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES):

• In-depth knowledge of plant genetics, genomics or bioinformatics;
• Evidence of the ability to collaborate, as well as the drive to build research capacity and research networks;
• Excellent communication skills and good interpersonal skills, along with a passion for the niche field.

ADDED ADVANTAGES AND PREFERENCES:

• Evidence of working with large datasets;
• Experience with teaching undergraduate classes;
• Proficiency in the R computational workspace;
• Evidence of teamwork and collaboration with others in multidisciplinary teams.

PLEASE NOTE: All shortlisted applicants will be expected as a part of the selection process, to present a 15-minute mock lecture on a given genetics topic to staff and postgraduate students in the Department of Biochemistry, Genetics and Microbiology. The Department also reserves the right to request and review copies of academic publications (papers/dissertation/thesis) for suitability before a candidate is shortlisted.

The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the incumbent’s level of appointment, as determined by UP policy guidelines. UP subscribes to the BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid schemes and contributes 50% of the applicable monthly premium.

Applicants are requested to apply online at www.up.ac.za, select about UP, click on Career Opportunities and select the position to be applied for.

In applying for these posts, please attach:

• A comprehensive UP format CV;
• Certified copies of qualifications;
• Names, e-mail addresses and telephone details of three referees whom we have permission to contact;
• Names and contact details of three peer reviewers (academic and research);
• A critical self-evaluation of research contributions that addresses the above-mentioned minimum requirements and required competencies;
• A cover letter motivating the candidate’s suitability for the position.

CLOSING DATE: 03 June 2026

No application will be considered after the closing date, or if it does not comply with at least the minimum requirements.

ENQUIRIES:

Ms Busi Khumalo (email: [email protected]) for application-related enquiries and Prof. Sanushka Naidoo (email: [email protected]) for enquiries relating to post content.

Should you not hear from the University of Pretoria by 31 August 2026, please accept that your application has been unsuccessful.

The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity.

In accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets, preference may be given, but is not limited to candidates from under-represented designated groups.

All candidates who comply with the requirements for appointment are invited to apply. All candidates agree to undergo verification of personal credentials.

The University of Pretoria reserves the right to not fill the advertised positions