Postdoctoral Research Fellowship: Chemical &Earth Sciences

SUMMARY:
DEPARTMENT OF POSTGRADUATE STUDIES AND POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIPS
(On behalf of the Department of Chemical and Earth Sciences)
Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship 2026–2028 (24-month period)
 
Description: The Geography and Environmental Science Discipline wish to appoint one Postdoctoral Research Fellow (PDRF) to focus on Community-Based Soil Resource Management and Soil Rehabilitation. The research will use a mixed-methods approach for data collection. Satellite images will be used to assess and map erosion across the Tyume catchment, alongside interviews, focus group discussions, and questionnaires.

POSITION INFO:
Requirements: The successful candidate must have a doctorate completed within the last five years in Geomorphology, Environmental Geomorphology, Environmental Science\/Studies, Geographic Information Systems\/Remote Sensing, Natural Resource Management, or a related field. at a higher education institution in South Africa or abroad. The successful candidate may not be employed by UFH (including Time on Task) at the time of accepting the postdoctoral fellowship, and thereafter. The successful candidate may not be employed in any other institution\/company during their postdoctoral fellowship. The successful candidate may be of any age, gender or nationality (subject only to the visa regulations of the Department of Home Affairs). Preference will be given to South African females. Conditions : By the end of the first year, the PDRF is expected to have published or submitted papers amounting to 2 units for publication review in DHET-accredited journals on the topic of their postdoctoral research. PDRF extending into the second and subsequent years is expected to have 2 units published (or be in press). All papers must be on postdoctoral research, and details of the papers must be submitted by the host to the PGS office by the end of each renewal year. Project requirements: Competence in data analysis (SPSS, Thematic and Discourse) Proficient in statistical analysis. Proficient data management. Demonstrate relevant experience, understanding, and knowledge of quantitative and qualitative research approaches. Field research experience. Strong academic writing skills. Exceptional command of Geographic Information Systems and Remote Sensing. Remuneration: The annual stipend for this position is R300,000, paid quarterly in four equal instalments. Application details: Interested candidates are invited to email the following documents to Mr Mandilakhe Qelesile ( ) and copy Ms Babalwa Solani ( \/ ) A motivation letter not exceeding 2 pages, outlining relevant expertise and experience. Full CV including a list of research publications. A certified copy of the doctoral degree certificate and any other relevant certificates. Certified copy of ID document (or copy of passport in the case of foreign applicants). Contact details of two academic referees who have taught\/supervised\/mentored the candidate. On the subject line, write Geography and Environment . For queries: For inquiries about details regarding the PDF position, please contact Dr HB Magagula at NOTE: Applications will be treated in order of arrival and with the highest degree of confidentiality. ◦ Correspondence will be with short-listed candidates only. The 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 the achievement of equitable demographic representation of our workforce profile. The University reserves the right NOT to make an appointment. Closing date: 09 October 2026.