CORE PURPOSE OF JOB

The Department of Chemistry at the Nelson Mandela University has a long history of excellence and leadership in teaching and research in the various fields of chemistry. Being part of a comprehensive university, the department is proud to nurture scientists in both diploma and degree programs. The person appointed to this position will be expected to (1) facilitate learning in topics related to Polymer Technology and other Chemistry subjects at undergraduate and postgraduate levels and across different academic programs; (2) to contribute actively in appropriate research and supervision of postgraduate students in Polymers; (3) to contribute actively in the general administration duties associated with the position; and (4)  to create academic/industry links and partnerships in their area of research expertise.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

• Facilitating multimodal teaching and learning in Polymer Technology specialized fields and related general topics.
• Supervision of postgraduate research students and publishing research.
• Development of an individual field of research in chemical sciences.
• Development of national and international research networks and partnerships.
• Manage, conduct, publish and promote research.
• Involvement in academic engagement at the departmental, faculty, institutional, regional and national levels.
• Participate in public activities of the Department of Chemistry and the Faculty of Science.
• Perform administration duties normally associated with the academic position.
• Perform any other related duties as and when required.

CORE COMPETENCIES

• A sound knowledge of theory and applications of Polymer Technology and processing (preferably Plastics, Paint or Rubber).
• Knowledge (willingness to learn) of training of undergraduate students.
• A relevant background in research and training of postgraduate students at both masters and/ or doctoral levels.
• Ability to contribute to the creation of knowledge through research and publication of research results in accredited national and international scientific journals.
• Ability to attract external financial research support.
• Engagement at the departmental, faculty, institutional, regional and national levels.

• Good administration and interpersonal skills.

REQUIREMENTS

Lecturer:

• A Masters in Polymer Technology/Science
• 1-3 years’ teaching experience in Polymer Technology/Science, either at a university or in industry (or both).

Senior Lecturer:  

• A Doctorate degree in Polymer Technology/ Science
• A minimum of 3 years’ teaching experience in Polymer Science/Technology at undergraduate and/or postgraduate academic levels, either at a university or in industry (or both).

The following would be added advantages:

• Experience in both facilitating teaching at university and facilitating training in industry

• Industry experience in Plastics, Rubber, or Paint processing.

• Successful or current supervision of postgraduate students at Master and /or Doctoral levels (Senior Lecturer).
• A record of publishing research outputs will be an advantage (Senior Lecturer).