Researcher/Senior Researcher in Ecologies in the RASC (Contract post)

Rhodes University Makhanda, Eastern Cape Contract Posted 13 July 2026 - Closing Date 24 July 2026

Department other Minimum experience Associate Company primary industry Higher Education Job functional area Research Contract term 24 Salary R872 722 - R1 069 564 per annum

Researcher/Senior Researcher in Ecologies in the Rhodes African Studies Centre (RASC)****(Contract post – 2 years)

The Rhodes African Studies Centre invite suitably qualified candidates to join their team. **The Rhodes Africa Studies Centre (RASC)**Established in 2019, the Rhodes African Studies Centre is an inter-faculty research Centre of Excellence that is located in the Faculty of Humanities at Rhodes University. It focuses on conceptual, methodological, and empirical ways of reconfiguring African studies. The Centre is an integral part of Africa Multiple, an initiative of the DFG’s Excellence strategy. Africa Multiple comprises the University of Bayreuth in Germany; Moi University in Kenya; University of Lagos in Nigeria and the University of Joseph Ki Zerbo in Burkina Faso, in addition to University of Salvador du Bahia, which is one of our partners. For more information, visit Africa Multiple at: https://www.africamultiple.uni-bayreuth.de/en/index.html

Main Objectives Research is the main focus, and teaching is not a core function. Where the researchers are on contract, raising funds for their employment, contract research shall be regarded as equivalent to more traditional forms of research.

In assessing the candidate’s scholarship for promotion, consideration will be given to the individual's track record. While disciplinary differences are considered, the candidate must demonstrate standing within the discipline through their research and student research. This could mean that the individual has demonstrated leadership, made a major contribution to research projects, served as the lead author on publications, or consistently contributed to multiple publications throughout their academic career. The Requirements Researcher

• PhD in Environmental Sciences, Physical Geography, Ecology, Climatology, Hydrology, Water Resource Science, Political Ecology, Environmental Humanities, Environmental Education and Learning, or related fields.
• Some experience in areas related to the Research Section's research, especially in inter- and transdisciplinary research linking bio-physical methods and concepts in the Natural Sciences with methods and concepts in the Humanities and Social Sciences.
• Emerging publication profiles in leading journals in the field of study, with some of these publications addressing inter- and/or transdisciplinary topics.
• Some experience in participating in interdisciplinary and/or collaborative projects and/or programmes.
• Evidence of attendance and presentation at local conferences. Presentation at international conferences will be an added advantage.
• Some administrative experience, albeit in informal contexts, e.g., student or sports clubs work experience.

Senior Researcher

• PhD in Environmental Sciences, Physical Geography, Ecology, Climatology, Hydrology, Water Resource Science, Political Ecology, Environmental Humanities, Environmental Education and Learning, or related fields.
• Evidence of extensive experience and demonstrated expertise in areas related to the research of the Research Section, especially in inter- and transdisciplinary research linking bio-physical methods and concepts in the Natural Sciences with methods and concepts in Humanities and Social Sciences.
• A strong publication record in leading journals in the field of study, with a special focus on inter- and transdisciplinary topics.
• Research supervision of at least a Master’s degree is required. Supervision at the PhD level will be an added advantage.
• Experience in leading and/or coordinating interdisciplinary and/or collaborative research projects and/or programmes.
• Evidence of attendance and presentation in local and preferably international conferences.
• Emerging national profile in the discipline.
• Track record of administration, management, and/or leadership roles (leadership roles may be informal).

Application Process It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The following documents are required:* A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following: - + Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs. + Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.

• A strong and succinct cover letter outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.
• Short description (max. 3 pages) of a potential research project to be pursued within the Ecologies Research Section.

Please refer to the andPlease note that no hand-written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application can be submitted to [email protected].

Selection Process:* The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.

• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date. **Remuneration per annum:**Senior Researcher Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R 826,322.00 Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R 1,069,564.00 Researcher Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R 667,972.00 Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R 872,722.00

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application in itself does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

Closing Date: 24 July 2026This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possibleIf you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.

Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies.

Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.

These values are:

Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.