The Afromontane Research Unit (ARU), University of the Free State (UFS), is an active and growing mountain research hub situated at the foot of the Maloti-Drakensberg in the eastern Free State Province, South Africa. The vision of the ARU is to become a continental leader in African mountain research, with a focus on the sustainability of the Maloti-Drakensberg as a social-ecological entity.

The ARU is advertising a Post-Doctoral Fellowship focusing on plant diversity & endemism in southern African mountains, and related concepts around ecological and historical biogeography. In addition to the academic research commitments, the Fellow will also have the opportunity to be exposed to the wide range of mountain-related activities being driven by the ARU.

FELLOWSHIP DETAILS

•  One year with the option of renewing for a second year, depending on performance.
• The Fellowship is valued at ZAR220,000.00 for one year (12 months) with R30,000.00 for running costs.

ELIGIBILITY CRITERIA

• Candidates should have preferably completed their Doctoral studies within the past 5 years, or can show proof of pending graduation in 2018.
• Applications from South African and international candidates are welcomed.
• Candidates may not hold full-time salaried employment during the tenure of the award.
• The following intellectual/experience background will be preferred:
  a. Basic taxonomic knowledge and nomenclatural understanding.
  b. A background in biogeography.
  c. A passion for mountain biodiversity.
  d. Able to manage & manipulate large datasets.
  e. Excellent data analysis and writing skills.
• It is recommended that the Fellow have a valid drivers’ license.

APPLICATION REQUIREMENTS

• Motivation Letter.
• Full Curriculum Vitae (CV) (including a list of academic outputs to date).
• Full transcripts of academic record.
• Copy of degree certificates.
• Copy of South African identity document or Passport (international candidates).
• Signed letters of recommendation from three academic references.

The appointment will reflect the UFS’s equity and diversity imperatives, including those for gender, racial/cultural and intellectual diversity. A Fellowship is currently available for this position, and will be awarded on a competitive basis, taking into account the applicants' academic achievements and research potential.

Application Deadline: 30 September 2018

Contact: Dr Ralph Clark, Director Afromontane Research Unit, University of the Free State, QwaQwa Campus, Private Bag X13, Phuthaditjhaba, 9866, South Africa. Tel: +27 72 439 8981; Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.