Research jobs in South Africa

The Department of Zoology and Entomology invites suitably qualified candidates to join their team.

All academics are responsible for the dissemination of knowledge (teaching and learning), creation of knowledge (research) 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, and make some contribution to their profession.

In addition, a Professor and Associate Professor are to provide academic leadership in teaching and learning, research, and community engagement, as well as to contribute towards the governance of the institution. This leadership contribution of the Professor should be evidenced at the departmental, Faculty and institutional levels.

• At least a PhD in Entomology or a related field with a strong focus on Entomology
• Extensive teaching experience in Entomology at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels
• Experience in teaching topics related to general entomology, ecophysiology, insect diversity, insect form and function, apiculture, forensic entomology, parasitology, medical veterinary entomology, conservation, pest management and entomological bio-control.
• Experience in research in general or applied entomological topics.
• Research supervision of Master's and PhD degrees to completion.
• International profile in the discipline.
• Track record of research publications and evidence of attracting funding
• Track record of administration, management, and/or leadership roles

• At least a PhD in Entomology or a related field with a strong focus on Entomology.
• Considerable teaching experience in Entomology at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels.
• Experience in teaching topics related to general entomology, ecophysiology, insect diversity, insect form and function, apiculture, forensic entomology, parasitology, medical veterinary entomology, conservation, pest management and entomological bio-control.
• Experience in research in general or applied entomological topics.
• Research supervision of Master's and PhD degrees to completion.
• National and emerging international profile in the discipline.
• Track record of research publications and evidence of attracting funding
• Track record of administration, management, and/or leadership roles

• At least a PhD in Entomology or a related field with a strong focus on Entomology.
• Teaching experience in Entomology at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels is required.
• Experience in teaching topics related to general entomology, ecophysiology, insect diversity, insect form and function, apiculture, forensic entomology, parasitology, medical veterinary entomology, conservation, pest management and entomological bio-control.
• Experience in research in general or applied entomological topics.
• Research supervision of at least a Master's degree is required for completion.
• Emerging national profile in the discipline.
• Track record of research publications and evidence of attracting funding
• Track record of administration, management, and/or leadership roles

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

• 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 outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements.

Please note that no hand‑written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified.

Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application can be submitted to hrrecruitment@ru.ac.za.

• 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.

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R1 146 695

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R1 465 125

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R936 120

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R1 203 447

Basic Pensionable Salary per annum: R783 243

Cost to Company per annum (Approximately): R1 013 469

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 does not entitle the applicant to an interview. Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates.

24 November 2025

This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible.

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

Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented 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.

Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission.

These values are: 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.