Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Climate and Disaster Studies

University of the Free State Bloemfontein, Free State R 270,000 – R 0

Contract Closes 23 Oct 2026 · 13 days left

Bloemfontein, Free State R 270,000 – R 0 Contract Closes 23 Oct 2026

The University of the Free State (UFS) is offering a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship at the Disaster Management Training and Education Centre for Africa (DiMTEC). This is a one-year position with the possibility of renewal for up to three more years, depending on performance. The job is based in Bloemfontein, Free State, and focuses on research related to climate change adaptation, disaster risk reduction, and environmental sustainability.

As a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, you will lead and contribute to research projects focusing on climate adaptation, resilience, and disaster risk governance. Key tasks include conducting advanced research, supporting a project in the Northern Cape province, and developing evidence-based knowledge for resilience planning. You will prepare technical reports, policy briefs, and research materials, participate in seminars, and assist in writing research proposals and grant applications. The role requires producing at least two peer-reviewed journal articles per year and engaging in collaborative research networks.

Requirements: PhD in a relevant field (awarded within the last five years), strong research experience in quantitative/qualitative methods, data analysis, and policy research, and a proven track record of independent research and publications. Applicants must relocate to Bloemfontein and commit to spending at least 80% of their time at UFS. Open to South African and international candidates, but no other full-time employment allowed during the fellowship.

The fellowship offers an annual stipend of R270,000, plus an additional R30,000 for research-related expenses. This is a full-time, temporary research position with opportunities for renewal based on performance.