Professor/Associate Professor (Faculty of Art, Design & Architecture: Department of Visual Art)

Are you an accomplished academic and visual artist ready to lead, innovate, and inspire the next generation? The University of Johannesburg (UJ) invites applications for a Professor or Associate Professor position in our dynamic Department of Visual Art.

About the University of Johannesburg (UJ)

The University of Johannesburg is a vibrant, cosmopolitan institution guided by its UJ Strategy 2035, focusing on societal impact, sustainability, global partnerships, and technology. Our mission is to transform and serve humanity through innovation and the pursuit of knowledge, aiming to be an international university of choice, anchored in Africa and the global south, shaping a sustainable future.

About the Role

This is a unique opportunity to join the Faculty of Art, Design and Architecture (FADA) as a senior leader. Reporting to the Head of Department, you will play a crucial role in developing and delivering high-quality visual art programmes.

Your primary responsibility will be as a Module Leader in the teaching of Printmaking. We also seek expertise in at least one other area of our undergraduate programme, such as Painting, Sculpture, Drawing, New Media (photography/videography), and/or History of Art.

Beyond teaching, you will actively contribute to the Faculty’s and University’s strategic plan, driving innovation in teaching, curriculum development, research, internationalisation, and community engagement.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide senior academic leadership for the strategic growth of Visual Art programmes.
• Foster collaboration, innovation, and excellence in teaching, research, and community engagement.
• Deliver engaging teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels, including lectures, seminars, workshops, and research methodologies.
• Mentor and supervise students, tutors, research fellows, and junior staff.
• Conduct impactful research and/or creative practice resulting in DHET accredited outputs.
• Build and maintain industry and community networks to enhance student learning and partnerships.
• Coordinate curriculum delivery, programme administration, and departmental events.

What You Need (Minimum Requirements)

• A Doctorate in Visual Art or a related discipline is essential for appointment at Professor or Associate Professor level.
• Demonstrated academic leadership experience appropriate to a senior role.
• A strong track record of teaching in a higher education environment.
• A significant record of accredited research output, whether creative or textual.

Desired Skills and Attributes

• Excellent written, oral, and interpersonal communication skills.
• Proven leadership and organisational ability, combined with emotional intelligence, integrity, and professionalism.
• Strong critical thinking and problem-solving abilities, with the capacity to work independently under pressure.
• Demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with diverse stakeholders.
• Proven innovation and creativity in teaching, research, and professional practice.
• Relevant digital literacy and experience in curriculum development.

Recommendations

• An NRF rating or the ability to achieve one.
• Demonstrated leadership and vision for advancing Visual Art’s role in social impact, including community engagement and its application within the 4IR context and UN Sustainable Development Goals.
• Global South research and engagement experience.

Important Information for Applicants

Please note that the University is obligated, in terms of recent amendments to the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 2021 (Act 13 of 2021), to assess all prospective employees (including applicants) against the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO). The outcome of this assessment may impact employment with the University. For more information, please review: Justice/Criminal/NRSO

How to Apply

Your application must include:

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• Names and full contact details (including telephone numbers and e-mail addresses) of at least three traceable and credible referees.
• A copy of your highest academic qualification.
• Proof of registration with any professional bodies you belong to.
• For academic positions, a list of accredited research output and/or a portfolio of your creative output.

Please upload all required documents on the University of Johannesburg e-recruitment website via the application link below before the closing date. Candidates may be subjected to appropriate psychometric testing and other selection instruments.

The University of Johannesburg is committed to providing equal employment opportunities for persons with disabilities and individuals from historically disadvantaged groups.

If you require technical support for the UJ e-recruitment website, please contact PNET on 0861 227337 / 010 140 3099 or email [email protected].

If you have not received a response from the University within 8 weeks of the closing date, please assume your application has been unsuccessful.