Lecturer/ Senior Lecturer- Architecture

Nelson Mandela University; South Africa; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 900,000; Full time

Job summary

Nelson Mandela University seeks a qualified academic to contribute to its architectural education through teaching and supervision in the design studio. The role emphasizes research in architectural design, detailing, and professional practice, and active engagement with the profession and communities.

The position supports curriculum development, assessment, and academic leadership within the architecture programme, aligning with the University’s strategic objectives and standards.

Qualifications

• Doctorate in Architecture or equivalent with evidence of research output and postgraduate supervision.
• Master’s degree in Architecture with professional registration and post‑registration experience considered.

Responsibilities

• Facilitate active learning and teaching at undergraduate and postgraduate levels in architectural design.
• Conduct and publish high‑quality research in architectural design, detailing and professional practice.
• Supervise postgraduate students and ensure timely completion of dissertations and theses.
• Contribute to quality assurance of academic programmes and module development.
• Engage with communities and professional organisations; participate in institutional governance.
• Perform curriculum development and assessment tasks for academic programmes.

Job description

CORE PURPOSE OF JOB

The core purpose of this position is to contribute to the academic mission of the University through active engagement in learning and teaching activities, particularly within the architectural design studio, to promote learning in architectural design, architectural detailing and construction. The position is responsible for facilitating the development of the knowledge, skills, critical thinking and professional competencies required for students to function effectively within the architectural profession and to contribute meaningfully to society.

The position further contributes to the advancement of the discipline through research and innovation, postgraduate supervision, and scholarly activity. It includes engagement with the profession, communities and relevant disciplinary networks, as well as active participation in the academic, administrative and broader institutional functions of the University in accordance with its strategic objectives, academic standards and professional requirements.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

Key Performance Areas:

• Facilitating active learning and teaching processes at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
• Conduct and publish high-quality research in architectural design, detailed design and professional practice.
• Supervise postgraduate students, providing guidance and support throughout their research projects. Ensure timely completion of postgraduate dissertations and theses, maintaining high academic standards.
• Contribute to the quality and continuous improvement of academic programmes, and ensure that the modules comply with all quality requirements.
• Engage with the broader community through outreach and collaborative projects.
• Perform administrative tasks related to academic programs, including curriculum development and assessment.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Core Competencies:

• Strong knowledge of architectural design principles, construction detailing and sound knowledge and experience in professional practice.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct and publish high-quality research in architectural design and theory, along with the capability to secure research funding and lead significant research projects.
• Skilled in supervising postgraduate research and providing constructive feedback and guidance.
• Experience in contributing to programme development and ensuring quality standards.
• Active involvement in community outreach and professional architectural organisations and the ability to build and maintain professional relationships within the architectural community.
• Strong organisational and administrative skills to manage academic responsibilities.
• Excellent verbal and written communication skills and ability to work collaboratively with colleagues, students, and external partners.
• Dedication to promoting high standards of teaching and learning through innovative approaches to integrating digital tools and new methodologies in architectural education and focus on enhancing student learning outcomes and fostering a creative learning environment.

REQUIREMENTS

Senior Lecturer: A doctorate degree in Architecture with at least three years of relevant academic experience, in which competency has been gained. OR A master's degree with professional registration and at least five years of relevant academic experience, post-registration, in which competency has been gained. Evidence of a research portfolio must include accredited research output (papers published in accredited journals and subject-specific conference proceedings). Track record of successfully completed postgraduate student supervision.

Lecturer: A master’s degree in architecture (or equivalent), along with relevant experience and appropriate professional registration with the South African Council for the Architectural Profession (SACAP). Alternatively, candidates must be registered as candidate architects. Sound knowledge in architectural design, advanced construction and professional practice will be an advantage.

DISCLAIMER: Nelson Mandela University is a designated employer committed to pursuing excellence, diversity, inclusion, and redress in achieving its employment equity targets. Preference will be given to suitably qualified (Race and Gender) candidates in accordance with the University's employment equity targets. No applications will be accepted after the closing date Friday, 13 November 2026.