Associate Professor/Senior Lecturer in the Department of Literary Studies in English

Rhodes University; Makhanda; On-site; ZAR 826 000 - 988 000; Full time

Job summary

A leading South African university is seeking a Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor in the Department of Literary Studies in English. The role includes teaching, research, and community engagement, as well as providing academic leadership. A PhD in Literary Studies in English is required, along with teaching experience and an interest in Literary Theory. Expertise in areas such as Postmodernist Literature and Digital Humanities is advantageous. An attractive salary package is offered.

Qualifications

• Candidates must hold a PhD in Literary Studies in English.
• A strong teaching background and interest in Literary Theory is essential.
• Experience in any of the specialisation areas is an added advantage.

Responsibilities

• Responsible for teaching and learning in the Department.
• Engage in research and community involvement.
• Assume administrative and leadership duties.

Skills

Teaching experience

Interest in Literary Theory

Postmodernist Literature

Digital Humanities

Ecology and Environmental Literature

Oceanic Studies

Film Studies

Education

PhD in Literary Studies in English

Job description

Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor in the Department of Literary Studies in English

The Department of Literary Studies in English invites suitably qualified candidates to join their team.

Main Objectives

All academics are responsible for teaching and learning, the creation of knowledge (research), professional involvement and community engagement, recognising that there are differences in the execution of these responsibilities within the various departments and Faculties. Academics are also expected to assume some administrative, management and/or leadership duties at the departmental, Faculty and/or University level.

In addition, a Professor and Associate Professor are to provide academic leadership in the following areas: teaching and learning; research and community engagement as well as to contribute towards the leadership and management of the institution.

Requirements

A PhD in Literary Studies in English, with teaching experience and interest in Literary Theory is required.

Expertise in the following areas of specialisation would be an added advantage:

• Postmodernist Literature
• Digital Humanities
• Ecology and Environmental Literature
• Oceanic Studies
• Film Studies

Please refer to the role profile for the full minimum requirements linked to this position.

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the role profile and further particulars document for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted.

The Following Documents Are Required

• A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following:
• Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
• Referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address.
• A strong and succinct motivation which tells us your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.

Please note, no hand‑written applications will be considered. Failure to submit all documentation will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application can be submitted to [e-mail].

Selection Process

• The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview.
• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.

Remuneration Per Annum

Senior Lecturer

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R 826,322.00

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R 1,069,564.00

Associate Professor

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R 987,607.00

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R 1,270,054.00

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed‑term contract of not less than three years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application in and of itself does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

Closing Date

20 January 2026

If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Equality and Diversity

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence, Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of under‑represented designated groups as well as persons with disabilities to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply.

Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies.

Core Values and Principles

Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion

Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision‑making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.