Lecturer (2-Year Contract): Department of Religion Studies at UFS

The University of the Free State (UFS) invites applications for a Lecturer position in the Department of Religion Studies. This is a contract appointment for two years, offering a significant opportunity to contribute to academic excellence in a dynamic higher education environment.

About the University of the Free State (UFS)

The University of the Free State (UFS) is a diverse and inclusive South African institution committed to quality education, research, and community engagement. As a designated employer, UFS strives for excellence, diversity, and redress in achieving its equity targets. Located in Bloemfontein, UFS offers a vibrant academic community.

Your Role as a Lecturer

As a Lecturer, you will play a crucial role in shaping the minds of future leaders and contributing to the body of knowledge in Religion Studies.

Key Duties and Responsibilities:

• Present undergraduate and postgraduate modules in Religion Studies.
• Actively conduct research in a relevant field of Religion Studies.
• Synthesise knowledge through the publication of scientific papers in peer-reviewed journals.
• Participate in conferences, colloquiums, and seminars.
• Participate actively in the professional community.
• Co-supervise postgraduate students at Master’s and PhD levels.
• Participate actively in leadership and administration on Departmental and Faculty levels.

What You Need to Qualify

Essential Requirements:

• A PhD (NQF Level 10) in Religion Studies or a related discipline.
• Proven experience in delivering poster or oral presentations at conferences or equivalent activities.
• Evidence of manuscripts produced that have the potential to be converted or submitted for publication in accredited journals.
• A good academic record (please attach a copy).

Highly Recommended:

• At least one (1) year of teaching experience in a higher education environment, on both an undergraduate and postgraduate level.
• The ability to teach with digital skills and competence.
• Experience with a Learning Management System (LMS) related to Higher Education Institutions (e.g., Blackboard) or related experience with institutional systems and the ability to navigate them.

Required Competencies

We are looking for candidates who demonstrate the following key competencies:

• Results-Oriented: Ability to adapt to a changing environment, be reliable, responsible, dependable, and fulfil obligations.
• Strategic Thinking: Creative, open-minded, and able to analyse information logically to solve problems.
• Business Acumen: Adherence to rules, strict following of regulations, and proficiency in MS Office.
• Leading: Ability to lead, take charge, offer opinions and directions, and encourage teamwork.
• Building Coalitions: Ability to interact effectively, establish personal connections, and make decisions through consultation and collaboration.

Application Process

Documents Required:

INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED! To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the essential requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
• A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for foreign nationals).
• Confirmation of employment in the form of a letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or recent payslip from your current or most recent employer (applicable to external applicants only).

Important Dates & Details:

• Assumption of Duties: 1 February 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter.
• Closing Date: 09 November 2025.
• Salary: Competitive, available on request.
• Fringe Benefits: (Subject to specific conditions) Pension scheme, medical aid scheme, group life insurance, housing allowance, leave and sick leave, service bonus, and study benefits.

How to Apply:

Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website. Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered.

The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.

Enquiries

For enquiries, please contact 051 401 9813 or email [email protected]. You may also contact 051 401 9810 / 9814 / 9848 for assistance.

Important Information

The UFS is committed to employment equity. Preference will be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups, including candidates with disabilities. The University processes personal information in line with its obligations under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).

The University reserves the right not to fill the post. Only applications from candidates who meet all inherent requirements will be considered. Incomplete applications will not be processed. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates. If you are not contacted within six weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.