The University of the Free State (UFS) invites applications from suitably qualified candidates for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in the Department of Religion Studies, Faculty of Theology and Religion. This prestigious opportunity is ideal for early-career scholars aiming to build a strong academic research profile in a supportive university environment.
The fellowship is offered on a one-year contract, renewable for up to three years, subject to satisfactory performance and availability of funding.
Postdoctoral Fellowship Overview
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Fellowship
- Department: Religion Studies
- Faculty: Theology and Religion
- Job ID: 6319
- Contract Type: Contract (1 year, renewable up to 3 years)
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
- Closing Date: 30 January 2026
- Commencement Date: 01 March 2026 (or as soon as possible thereafter)
About the Fellowship
The fellowship is awarded on a competitive basis, taking into account academic achievements, publication outputs, research potential, and alignment with the department’s research focus. Candidates with a strong interest in pursuing an academic career are encouraged to apply.
Research Focus Areas
- African spirituality
- Religion and ecology
Key Duties and Responsibilities
Successful candidates will be expected to:
- Conduct innovative, independent research in African spirituality and/or religion and ecology
- Produce at least three (3) DHET-accredited publication outputs per year (journal articles or books/chapters)
- Initiate research projects and actively seek external funding
- Submit annual progress reports to support renewal beyond the first year
- Register and reside as a postdoctoral fellow at UFS
- Participate in activities of the School of Postgraduate Studies, Directorate of Research, and the Department of Religion Studies
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Open to South African and international candidates
- PhD in Religion Studies obtained within the last five years
- Not hold full-time salaried employment during the fellowship
- Willingness to relocate to UFS for the duration of the fellowship
- This is a residential fellowship: the fellow must spend at least 80% of the postdoctoral period at UFS
Value of the Fellowship
- R270,000 annual fellowship
- R30,000 additional research expenses fund
How to Apply
Interested candidates must submit applications by email on or before 30 January 2026.
Submit the Following Documents
- Motivation letter, including a 1–2 page outline of relevant expertise and experience
- Full CV with a list of publications, conference papers, and scholarly outputs
- Full academic transcripts and PhD certificate
- Certified copy of ID (or passport for foreign nationals)
- Contact details of two academic referees
Email Applications To
Prof. Zoro Dube
📧 dubez@ufs.ac.za
Equity, POPIA and General Information
UFS is a designated employer committed to Employment Equity, diversity, and redress. Preference will be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups, including persons with disabilities.
All personal information will be processed in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA).
UFS reserves the right not to fill the post. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you are not contacted within six weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
Official Vacancy Link
👉 https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/Posting/view/2007
Meta Description (Rank Math SEO)
UFS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026: Apply for a 1-year renewable fellowship in the Department of Religion Studies, Faculty of Theology and Religion. Open to SA and international candidates. Closing date 30 January 2026.