Research Theme Leader – Planetary Health & Well-Being (5‑year contract)

About the role

The University of the Free State is seeking a senior academic leader to head the Planetary Health and Well‑Being research theme. This five‑year fixed‑term appointment will guide interdisciplinary research across health sciences, natural and agricultural sciences, and humanities, positioning the university as a continental leader in One Health and planetary health.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic research vision and roadmap for planetary and One Health excellence.
• Lead cross‑faculty research programmes addressing climate change, food systems, zoonoses, and ecosystem degradation.
• Translate research outcomes into policy‑relevant solutions and foster collaborations with government, industry, NGOs, and international bodies.
• Secure competitive funding from agencies such as NRF, DSI, NIH, WHO, EU Horizon and philanthropic foundations.
• Mentor postgraduate students and postdoctoral fellows, building capacity with a focus on diversity and interdisciplinary expertise.
• Coordinate with other Research Theme Leaders and the Directorate of Research Development to ensure institutional alignment.

Required profile

• PhD in a relevant discipline (e.g., Environmental Health, Public Health, Epidemiology, Sustainability Science, Veterinary or Agricultural Science, Environmental Humanities).
• Established record of high‑impact, transdisciplinary research and successful grant acquisition.
• Demonstrated leadership in interdisciplinary teams and experience supervising graduate researchers.
• Strong publication record in planetary health, One Health or related fields.

Required skills

• Research leadership and strategic planning.
• Grant writing and funding portfolio management.
• Interdisciplinary collaboration and stakeholder engagement.