Postdoctoral Research Fellowship: Wildlife Science, Wildlife Management and Conservation Biology Free State

Conduct innovative research in wildlife science, wildlife management and conservation biology. Contribute to research on wildlife monitoring, habitat assessment, sustainable rangeland management, conservation planning and large herbivore ecology. Utilise modern technologies including GPS telemetry, GIS, remote sensing, drones and artificial intelligence within wildlife research programmes. Publish a minimum of two peer-reviewed scientific papers per year. Present research findings at national and international scientific conferences. Assist with undergraduate teaching and practical training in Wildlife Science and Wildlife Management. Assist with the supervision and mentoring of Honours, MSc and PhD students. Contribute to curriculum enhancement and module development. Assist with grant applications and research project development. Register and reside as a postdoctoral fellow at the University of the Free State and participate in relevant activities of the Directorate of Research and Postgraduate Studies.

Competencies

Eligibility criteria

Open to all South African and foreign nationals for full-time research at the University of the Free State. Hold a PhD degree in Wildlife Science, Wildlife Management, Conservation Biology, Ecology, Zoology, Rangeland Science, Animal Science or a closely related discipline. Have obtained their doctoral degree within the last five years. Demonstrate a publication record in peer-reviewed scientific journals. Have experience in wildlife research and field-based ecological studies Demonstrate experience in undergraduate teaching and practical training. Demonstrate the ability to contribute to curriculum development and postgraduate supervision. Possess excellent scientific writing and communication skills. Hold a valid driver's licence (attach a copy). Successful applicants may not hold full-time salaried employment during the fellowship period.  Successful applicants must be willing to relocate to Bloemfontein and participate fully in departmental research, teaching and postgraduate activities.

Closing date: 

21 August 2026