Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor in the School of Journalism and Media Studies

Rhodes University; Oos-Kaap; On-site; ZAR 783 000 - 937 000; Full time

Job summary

A prominent South African university is seeking qualified candidates for Senior Lecturer and Associate Professor positions in the School of Journalism and Media Studies. Ideal candidates will have a PhD in a relevant field and extensive experience in journalism practice and education. Responsibilities include overseeing digital journalism initiatives, editing Grocott’s Mail, and conducting impactful research. Competitive remuneration packages are offered, with a closing date for applications on 17 November 2025.

Qualifications

• PhD in Journalism Studies or Media Studies, or closely related fields.
• At least five years of experience as a practitioner in news environments.
• Teaching experience at undergraduate and postgraduate levels.

Responsibilities

• Oversee journalism practice in digital environments.
• Lead the editorship of Grocott’s Mail.
• Conduct research and publish advanced scholarship.

Skills

Journalism practice in digital environments

Media Studies

Communication Studies

Mentoring

Education

PhD in Journalism Studies or Media Studies

Job description

Senior Lecturer/Associate Professor in the School of Journalism and Media Studies

The School of Journalism and Media Studies (JMS) invites suitably qualified candidates to shape the future of engaged digital journalism at Rhodes University.

Overview

As a scholar and practitioner with a depth of experience in the study and practice of journalism, you will oversee the fusion of cutting‑edge journalism practice with transformative experiential learning and practice‑based research. You will take on the editorship of Grocott’s Mail, South Africa’s oldest independent newspaper, producing hyperlocal, solutions‑driven stories that bridge digital and historical divides, amplify marginalised voices, and hold power to account. This role offers a rare opportunity to research and publish globally on journalism education, mentor self‑reflective media leaders, and drive civic impact in a city that needs accountable storytelling.

Responsibilities

• Oversee journalism practice in digital environments and experiential learning initiatives.
• Lead the editorship of Grocott’s Mail, ensuring high‑quality, solutions‑driven storytelling.
• Conduct research and publish advanced scholarship in journalism studies and media studies.
• Mentor students and media leaders, fostering ethical, reflective, and civic‑impact journalism.

Requirements

Senior Lecturer

• PhD in Journalism Studies or Media Studies, or closely related fields, plus at least five years of experience as a practitioner in a print and/or digital news environment.
• Teaching experience at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
• Experience in teaching and research in one or more of the following areas: Journalism practice in digital environments, Journalism Studies, Media Studies, Communication Studies.
• Supervision of at least Master’s degrees to completion.
• Emerging national profile and credible publication record in peer‑reviewed publications.
• Track record of administration, management, or leadership roles.

Associate Professor

• PhD in Journalism Studies or Media Studies, or closely related fields, plus at least five years of experience as a practitioner in a print and/or digital news environment.
• Considerable teaching experience at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
• Experience in teaching and research in one or more of the following areas: Journalism practice in digital environments, Journalism Studies, Media Studies, Communication Studies.
• Supervision of Master’s degrees to completion; supervision of PhD degrees to completion is an advantage.
• National and emerging international profile and substantial publication record in peer‑reviewed publications.
• Proven track record of administration, management, and leadership.

Application Process

Prospective candidates should read the role profile and further particulars document for additional information and ensure all required documentation is submitted.

Required documents:

• A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications.
• Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
• A list of at least three referees who are or were your direct line manager, including title, name, designation, contact number, and email address.
• A strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.

Please note that handwritten applications will not be considered. Applications should be submitted via the website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and answer all questions will result in disqualification.

Any inquiries regarding the application submission can be directed to [e-mail].

Selection Process

• Assessment and/or presentation.
• Interview.
• Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date.

Remuneration per annum

Senior Lecturer
- Basic Pensionable Salary: R 783 243.00
- Cost to Company (approximately): R 1 013 469.00

Associate Professor
- Basic Pensionable Salary: R 936 120.00
- Cost to Company (approximately): R 1 203 447.00

Closing Date

17 November 2025. If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Equal Opportunity Statement

Rhodes University is an equal‑opportunity employer. Diversity and inclusion are core values. The University encourages candidates from South African members of underrepresented designated groups, persons with disabilities, spouses and partners of existing staff members, and all other eligible applicants to apply.