LECTURER (nGAP) IN THE DEPARTMENT OF BIOCHEMISTRY AND MICROBIOLOGY RHODES UNIVERSITY

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.

The New Generation of Academics Programme (nGAP) is funded by the Department of Higher Education and Training and is part of its Staffing South Africa’s Universities Framework (SSAUF).  nGAP, seeks to accelerate the academic careers of individuals from designated groups by providing opportunities to acquire a postgraduate qualification (ideally at doctoral level), within an overall programme which provides mentoring and support as appointees are inducted into all areas of academic life.  Appointees are provided with a much-reduced workload in the early years of the six-year programme.

The nGAP offers a rare opportunity for individuals with an interest in pursuing an academic career to be developed in a supportive programme designed for their needs.  Applicants should have a minimum of 70% pass for their Master’s degree in order to be considered for the post.

The position is aimed at individuals who are:

• Interested in and can demonstrate commitment to an academic career
• 40 years of age and younger
• Eligible for postgraduate study at doctoral level
• Willing to commit to an appointment at Rhodes University for the full 6 years of the nGAP.

Please pay attention to the Conditions of Services in the attached RU Protocol for employment of New Generations of Academics’ Programme.

At least an MSc in Microbiology. Preference will be given to candidates with a PHD or candidates who have made significant progress towards completion of a PhD in Microbiology with specialisation in Molecular Microbiology or Mycology.

The successful candidate will be expected to fit into one of these research areas:

• Antimicrobial Drug Discovery
• Medical Microbiology
• Mycology
• Molecular Virology

Candidates should have an ability to teach in the following disciplinary areas: Microbiology. Environmental Microbiology or Applied/Industrial Microbiology would be highly advantageous.

For additional information on the requirements, please refer to the Academic Role Profile.

Please note that this appointment will be made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended and the University’s recruitment and selection policies and equity strategies. The initial focus will be on equity candidates.

In terms of Immigration Legislation (Act No. 13 of 2002 & Regulations) as amended, international staff members (non-SA citizens) have to comply with the provisions of the Act. This therefore means that the period of employment to non-SA citizens will be guided by the validity period of the work permit.  In line with legislation governing employment of foreign nationals, employment contracts will be offered on the basis that a development plan would be implemented for the transfer of skills to a South African resident. The onus is on candidates to ensure that they are in possession of a valid work permit before the commencement of employment at the University, failing which the employment with Rhodes University will be terminated.

• An application form;
• A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications, including academic transcripts;
• A substantial motivation which tells us:
  • Your research trajectory.
  • Your teaching approach and experience.
  • The level you are applying for, your interest in the post and suitability in light of the requirements.

It is essential that prospective candidates read the academic role profile, further particulars relating to this post and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

Failure to submit such documentation will result in an application not being considered. Please examine the following documents:

• Application Form (right hand click and select open link in new tab)
• Academic Role Profile (right hand click and select open link in new tab)
• RU Protocol for employment of New Generations of Academics’ Programme (right hand click and select open link in new tab)
• nGAP Conditions (right hand click and select open link in new tab)

If you have any questions or experiencing challenges on the system, please contact Mericha Maccario on 046 603 8001.

The selection process that will be followed for this post including the process of short-listing, the interview etc, is contained in the document above. The Full Minimum Requirements against which candidates are to be measured are outlined in the requirements document.

Cost to Company Approximately: R692,790.00
Basic Salary:                                    R493,443.00

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed-term contract of not less than three-years. 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.  Please apply online by accessing the Rhodes University Website.

Candidates should note that Rhodes University has introduced a Covid-19 vaccine mandate and that staff members are required to conform to the University’s conditions in this regard.