PURPOSE OF THE POSITION:

Vacant academic position in Chemistry, with teaching duties in the sub-groups Physical and Inorganic Chemistry as well as Molecular Modelling, and research duties (including postgraduate supervision) in the Molecular Modeling Research Group (RFA for Chemical Resource Beneficiation).

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

1. Teaching and Learning: undergraduate and honours in Physical and Inorganic Chemistry as well as Molecular Modeling modules.
2. Research and innovation: lead research and supervise students at masters and doctoral levels in Molecular Modelling.
3. Community engagement: social and academic communities.
4. Management and other tasks at subject group, focus area and faculty levels.

• A PhD (NQF Level 10) in Molecular Modelling (within the field of Physical and/or Inorganic Chemistry). 
• A minimum of one (1) year teaching and learning experience in Molecular Modelling, Physical and/or Inorganic Chemistry.
• Academic and/or industrial experience in Molecular Modelling (specifically molecular dynamics and solid state DFT) for both heterogeneous and homogeneous systems.
• Experience in computer programming such as GROMACS, Spartan, VASP, quantum espresso and/or Materials Studio with a basic knowledge in Python and Linux shell scripting.
• Experience in computing cluster setup and/or administration.
• Experience in higher education research and postgraduate supervision (Master’s and PhD).
• A continual track record of research papers published in accredited peer-reviewed scientific journals.
• National and international collaborations.

RECOMMENDATIONS / ADDED ADVANTAGES:

• Community service.

KEY FUNCTIONAL / TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Advanced knowledge of Molecular Modeling research applicable to both heterogenous and homogenous systems. 
• Be able to lecture introductory and advanced chemistry on a tertiary level with a specific inclination towards teaching Physical and Inorganic Chemistry, as well as Molecular Modelling.
• Be able to learn various teaching philosophies and approaches to apply during teaching and learning activities.
• Knowledge of aspects associated with the supervision of postgraduate studies in molecular modelling.
• Excellent computer skills, which include knowledge of relevant research and teaching software such as MS Office Suite (Teams, Outlook, Word, Excel, PowerPoint) in addition to computer programming experience (GROMACS, Spartan, VASP, quantum espresso and/or Materials Studio) with a basic knowledge in (Python and Linux) shell scripting.
• Experience in setting up and managing computer clusters.
• Written language ability with respect to spelling, grammar and punctuation to write scientific manuscripts.
• Excellent communication skills within the scientific community through presentations and publications.
• Demonstration of language proficiency to function optimally in the various multilingual environments of the NWU.
• Illustrate potential to obtain a NRF rating within the near future.
• Ability to apply theoretical knowledge within the molecular modelling research field.
• Strong analytical and problem-solving skills.
• Good administrative, planning and coordinating skills.

KEY BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Commitment to collegiality.
• Commitment to transformation.
• Ability to work independently and to collaborate in teams.
• An innovator who strives for ‘best practice’ in both teaching and research.
• Student orientated, reliable, and a sense of responsibility.
• Appreciation of the role of support staff and treating them with respect and dignity.
• Ability to function under pressure.

REMUNERATION: 

The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines.

ENQUIRIES REGARDING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Prof RJ Kriek (018 299 2345) and Prof HM Krieg (018 299 1669)

ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Mr Zenyo Seboko, Tel: 018 299 4951

CLOSING DATE: 03 May 2026 

PLANNED COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES: As soon as possible

Kindly take note: Applications must be submitted online through the official NWU vacancy website.

Incomplete applications and those submitted through any other platform will not be considered.

The University subscribes to and applies the principles of Employment Equity (EE) Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the EE Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan.

The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.

If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.