University Dean of Research

Listing reference: ukzn_000912 Listing status: Online Apply by: 11 September 2026

Position summary

Industry: Education & Training Job category: University and Academy Location: Westville Contract: Fixed Term Contract Remuneration: Market Related EE position: Yes

Introduction

UNIVERSITY DEAN OF RESEARCH, FIVE (5) YEAR FIXED TERM APPOINTMENT, BASED ON THE WESTVILLE CAMPUS.

Job description

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) seeks to appoint an accomplished and visionary University Dean of Research to provide strategic leadership and management of the University’s research portfolio.

Reporting to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research), the University Dean of Research will provide leadership in research management and development, research capacity building, research output monitoring and management, engagement with research funding agencies, and the development of national and international research linkages and partnerships.

The successful candidate will play a critical role in strengthening an enabling institutional environment for high-quality, impactful research and in advancing the University’s research objectives and strategic priorities.

Minimum requirements

The University Dean of Research will be responsible for:

• Providing strategic leadership in the planning, development and implementation of research policies, strategies and initiatives across the University.
• Supporting the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) in providing leadership and oversight of the Research Office.
• Coordinating and managing the activities of the Research Office and ensuring effective organisational structures, processes, systems and communication channels.
• Providing leadership for institutional research capacity-building initiatives, including research development programmes, supervision and writing workshops, doctoral development initiatives and research rating support.
• Working with College Deans of Research and other relevant stakeholders to identify research development needs and implement appropriate interventions and support programmes.
• Monitoring and managing research outputs across the University and identifying opportunities to strengthen research productivity and impact.
• Overseeing the submission of research outputs for subsidy purposes and the management of publication awards and related research output processes.
• Providing advice and support on research policies, procedures, grants and research management matters.
• Overseeing the University’s engagement with external research funding agencies and ensuring that grant applications, reports and other requirements are managed and submitted timeously.
• Overseeing external research grants and contracts managed through the Research Office.
• Managing and promoting national and international research linkages and partnerships with higher education institutions, industry and other relevant organisations.
• Supporting the development and implementation of national and international research linkage programmes and partnerships.
• Providing oversight of the University’s research ethics processes and ensuring that the relevant committees operate effectively in accordance with University policy.
• Overseeing the compilation and production of the University’s Annual Research Report.
• Providing leadership in the coordination of the University’s research awards and fellowships.
• Advising the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) and relevant University structures on research-related matters, including research funding and budgetary considerations.
• Providing effective leadership and management of staff within the Research Office and promoting a culture of performance, accountability, collaboration and service excellence.

The successful candidate must have:

• A Doctoral Degree.
• Must be at full Professorial level.
• At least 10 years’ experience in an academic and/or research environment.
• Extensive knowledge and understanding of the higher education research landscape.
• A strong and established research profile with the credibility to engage effectively with academic researchers, research leaders, funding agencies and other relevant stakeholders.
• Demonstrable experience in research management and development within a higher education or comparable research environment.
• Sound knowledge of research policy, research funding and research development processes.
• Appropriate leadership, interpersonal and communication skills.
• Strong analytical, conceptual and judgement skills.
• Demonstrable project management and organisational skills.
• The ability to manage teams and build productive working relationships across a complex institutional environment.

KEY COMPETENCIES AND ATTRIBUTES

The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate:

Strategic research leadership

• Ability to contribute to and advance strategic research initiatives.
• Strong judgement, analytical ability and conceptual thinking.
• Ability to translate research strategy into effective institutional implementation.

Results orientation

• Commitment to action and delivery.
• Resilience and the ability to operate effectively in a complex and changing environment.
• Strong execution and follow-through.

Leadership and people management

• Self-awareness and emotional maturity.
• Ability to lead, develop and manage teams.
• Ability to foster a culture of accountability, collaboration and performance.

Stakeholder engagement

• Ability to establish and maintain productive relationships with internal and external stakeholders.
• Ability to engage effectively with researchers, academic leaders, research funding agencies, government departments, higher education institutions and research management bodies.
• Competent and respectful leadership.

The successful candidate will be expected to demonstrate alignment with and commitment to the University’s R.E.A.C.H. values: Respect, Excellence, Accountability, Client Orientation and Honesty.

GENERAL INFORMATION

Applicants are required to provide:

• a detailed motivation highlighting their experience in each of the requirements listed above
• a detailed CV and/ UKZN application form including full record of research, publications and teaching, if applicable
• http://vacancies.ukzn.ac.za/Libraries/General_Documents/Application_form_-_Support.sflb.ashx
• Applications for the post of University Dean of Research; should be sent using the link: https://ukzn.ci.hr/applicant/index.php
• Job profile request should be directed for the attention of Ms Sphindile Mvuyana, HR Operations and Services Manager (interim), Human Resources, University of KwaZulu-Natal, Westville Campus on e-mail: mvuyanas@ukzn.ac.za
• The closing date for receipt of applications is 11 September 2026
• Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted
• The University reserves the right not to make an appointment.

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is committed to meeting the objectives of Employment Equity to improve representivity within the Institution. Preference will be given to applicants from designated groups in accordance with our Employment Equity Plan.

• Please do not send us copies of your degree and other certificates. We will request certified copies if you are short listed for interview.

• Please read the advertisement carefully. We do not consider applicants who do not meet the minimum requirements.

• The University is committed to Employment Equity.

• The University reserves the right not to fill a vacancy.

• Should you not hear from us within six weeks of the closing date, please assume you are unsuccessful

• Please familiarise yourself with the University’s Section 18 Notice regarding the processing of your Personal Information.