SUMMARY:
Since its bold founding in 1916, the University of Fort Hare has embodied courage, resilience, and the pursuit of transformation. From its proud legacy as a cradle of African leadership and intellectual liberation to its continued determination to overcome contemporary challenges, the University of Fort Hare’s spirit of renewal endures. The University has been steadily advancing its transformative journey over the years — the Decade of Renewal, marked by accountability, innovation, and academic excellence.
Located in the heart of the Eastern Cape, the University of Fort Hare offers more than just a place to work; it offers a purpose. Here, you can help shape the future of one of South Africa’s most historic and culturally rich institutions, while enjoying the province’s natural beauty, sense of community, and space for professional growth.
Are you ready to be part of this journey and help reposition this iconic institution to the place it so richly deserves?
Applications are invited from visionary and committed professionals ready to make a lasting impact in the University’s ongoing renewal.
FACULTY: HEALTH SCIENCES
ASSOCIATE PROFESSOR – HUMAN MOVEMENT SCIENCES
PERMANENT
UFH Advert Reference No.: HS 12
JOB DESCRIPTION:
The Faculty of Health Sciences seeks an accomplished academic to join our Human Movement Sciences Department. The appointment will be made at the level of Associate Professor.
Reporting to the Head of Department, this is a rare opportunity to lead, innovate and inspire the next generation of Academics and Researchers. The incumbent will provide strategic leadership across module coordination and clinical education within the Human Movement Sciences, driving excellence across the undergraduate programme and beyond. The incumbent will bring expertise in at least one of the following fields: Exercise Physiology, Sport Science, Biokinetics, Ergonomics, Kinderkinetics, Physical Activity, Exercise Science, or in any area related to Human Movement Sciences. Beyond the classroom, the incumbent will contribute actively to the strategic plan of the Faculty and the University, playing a key role in driving innovation in teaching, curriculum development, research, internationalization and community engagement.
POSITION INFO:
KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS Academic Thought Leadership Teaching Execution Post Graduate Programme Development Research Supervision Research Execution T&L Integrated Community Engagement International Academic & Research Program Collaboration Research grants & funding applications\/proposals Advances the faculty, institutional learning & research objectives Financial Planning & Budgeting Organisational Unit Staff Management MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS Doctoral Degree in Human Movement Sciences, Sport Science, Exercise Science, Biokenitics, or a closely related field At least 7 years' experience in higher education Extensive undergraduate and postgraduate teaching and research experience A track record of international and national accredited research publications commensurate with the academic rank of Associate Professor Postgraduate supervision experience including successful Masters and\/or Doctoral supervision commensurate with the academic rank of Associate Professor Evidence of successful external fundraising for research. Some standing as a scholar in a chosen area of research (e.g., NRF rating, keynote addresses\/ plenary lectures). ADDED ADVANTAGES Qualification \/ courses in higher education teaching and learning \/ Recognition for teaching Evidence of professional and academic standing at national and international levels Evidence of academic leadership and mentorship of early career academics. Evidence of successfully hosting post-doctoral research fellows. Evidence of national and international collaboration Evidence of community engagement integrated with teaching, learning or research COMPETENCIES AND BEHAVIOURAL ATTRIBUTES Business Acumen Change Leadership Critical Thinking Partnering Academic Programme & Quality Management Academic Standards Formulation & Compliance Cross-Functional Academic Collaboration Research & Innovation Research Support REMUNERATION A competitive remuneration package, commensurate with the seniority of the position, experience and qualifications, will be offered. ENQUIRIES: Queries regarding job content can be directed to Ms Fungai Matumba on and . The University reserves the right to make an appointment or not to fill the post. Correspondence will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. Should you not hear from us within eight weeks of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful. APPLICATIONS: Interested candidates who meet the criteria are invited to visit the website for a more comprehensive advert. Applications must be made online before the closing date, and the following documents must be attached: A completed University of Fort Hare application form, Detailed Curriculum Vitae, A Cover letter stating how you satisfy the requirements of the advertised position, Names and full contact details (including telephone numbers and e-mail addresses) of at least three traceable and credible referees, Copies of all your academic qualifications and proof of registration with professional bodies, If applying for an academic position, a list of accredited research output and\/or a portfolio of your creative output. Incomplete applications and applications received after the closing date will not be considered. CLOSING DATE: 4 October 2026 University of Fort Hare is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Pursuant to complying with the Employment Equity Act No.55 of 1998, when appointing preference will be given to applicants from designated groups whose appointments will contribute towards achievement of equitable demographic representation of our workforce profile.
