Research Theme Leader – Sustainable Futures (Professorial)

About the role

The University of the Free State is seeking a senior academic leader to head its Sustainable Futures research theme. This five‑year fixed‑term appointment will guide interdisciplinary research that addresses sustainability, environmental resilience, circular economies and future‑oriented innovation aligned with the UN SDGs and regional development plans.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and implement a strategic vision and roadmap for the Sustainable Futures theme.
• Foster an inclusive, interdisciplinary research culture across faculties and campuses.
• Lead and expand a portfolio of high‑quality, internationally visible research projects.
• Secure competitive funding from NRF, DSI, industry, philanthropic organisations and international consortia.
• Publish impactful outputs in high‑impact journals and enhance the university’s research visibility.
• Build partnerships with government, industry and community stakeholders to translate research into societal benefit.
• Represent UFS in national and global sustainability networks and think‑tanks.
• Mentor emerging researchers, postdoctoral fellows and postgraduate students.
• Collaborate with other Theme Leaders and the Directorate of Research Development to align initiatives with institutional priorities.
• Contribute to policy development, strategic reporting and performance monitoring related to sustainability research.

Required profile

• PhD in sustainable development, environmental sciences or a related transdisciplinary field.
• Appointable at Associate or Full Professor level according to UFS criteria.
• Proven record of high‑impact research outputs and postgraduate supervision.
• Demonstrated leadership of large, multi‑disciplinary research teams or thematic programmes.
• Successful track record in attracting and managing external research funding.
• Strong stakeholder engagement experience with academia, industry and government.

Required skills