Associate Professor / Professor And Head Of Department (Psychology)

University Of Pretoria; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent educational institution in Pretoria is seeking an Associate Professor/Professor and Head of Department in Psychology. This role focuses on strategic management, academic leadership, and fostering research excellence within the department. The ideal candidate will possess a doctorate in psychology, have a strong research and publication record, and demonstrate excellence in teaching at the tertiary level. This is a term appointment for four years with the potential for permanent placement, offering a competitive remuneration package and benefits. Applications must include a cover letter and several supporting documents.

Benefits

Medical aid schemes contributions

Support for professional development

Qualifications

• Proven postgraduate supervision track record.
• Registration with the HPCSA (Clinical/Counselling/Research).
• Managerial experience at a tertiary institution.

Responsibilities

• Strategic and operational management of the department.
• Develop and implement the department's strategic plan.
• Enhance research productivity and visibility.

Skills

Teaching excellence in psychology

Research and publication record

Strong leadership skills

Interpersonal communication skills

Education

Doctorate in Psychology

Job description

Associate Professor/Professor and Head of Department (Psychology)

University of Pretoria seeks an Associate Professor/Professor and Head of Department in Psychology.

This role is a term appointment for four years, with potential for permanent academic appointment.

Overview

The Department of Psychology offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes, including honours, master's (clinical/counselling/research), and PhD degrees. The department emphasizes teaching, research and community engagement with four broad research themes: Health and Well‑being Across the Lifespan, Communities and Society, Theories and Measures in Psychology, and Teaching and Learning in Psychology.

Key Responsibilities

• Strategic, academic and operational management of the department.
• Provide intellectual and strategic leadership to ensure academic excellence.
• Develop and implement the department's strategic plan aligned with faculty and institutional visions.
• Foster a cohesive academic identity grounded in psychological science and professional practice.
• Lead curriculum design, review and accreditation processes (e.g., HPCSA alignment).
• Promote innovation in pedagogy and ensure integration of current psychological theories.
• Oversee quality assurance of teaching and learning, including moderation and student assessment policies.
• Support professional training and continuous development of stakeholders.
• Enhance research productivity, visibility and impact.
• Fundraise for departmental activities.

Minimum Requirements

• Doctorate in Psychology.
• Proven research and publication record.
• Proven postgraduate supervision track record.
• Registration with the HPCSA (Clinical/Counselling/Research).
• Demonstrated ability to manage workload allocations, staff development and conflict resolution.
• Appropriate vision for the department.
• Managerial experience at a tertiary institution.

Required Competencies

• Evidence of teaching excellence in psychology at tertiary level.
• Experience in liaison with internal and external stakeholders.
• International recognition of research work.
• Active engagement in funded research or grant applications.
• Strong leadership and interpersonal communication skills.

Additional Advantages and Preferences

• Strong research record in one of the department's specialisation fields.
• NRF rating.

Remuneration and Appointment

The annual remuneration package will be commensurate with the appointment level. The Head of Department is a term appointment for four years. The university subscribes to BESTMED and UMVUZO medical aid schemes, contributing 50% of the monthly premium.

Application Process

Applicants must apply online at , navigate to About UP > Career Opportunities, and select this position. Submit the following documents:

• Cover letter, comprehensive CV and full employment history.
• Certified copies of qualifications.
• Self‑evaluation of suitability for the post.
• Vision for the department.
• Teaching portfolio.
• Research portfolio (including citation index scores).
• Names and contact details of at least three referees (one national, two international).

Shortlisted candidates will be invited to prepare a presentation.

Closing Date

31 January ****. Applications received after this date or not meeting the minimum requirements will not be considered.

Contact

Prof Kevin Thomas, e‑mail: ****** – position enquiries. Ms Vicky Reynders, e‑mail: ****** – application process enquiries.

The University of Pretoria is committed to equality, employment equity and diversity. Preference may be given to candidates from under‑represented designated groups. By applying, candidates consent to verification of credentials as part of the selection process. The university reserves the right not to fill the advertised position.

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