Are you a recent PhD graduate who wants to work on African wildlife ? The University of the Free State is offering a post‑doctoral fellowship that starts in January 2027 – apply before the deadline on 21 August 2026.
What the opportunity is
The Department of Animal Science will take on one post‑doctoral researcher. The role focuses on wildlife science, wildlife management and conservation biology, especially large herbivores, habitat use and rangeland management. It is a temporary fellowship based at the Bloemfontein Campus, Free State.
- Start date: 01 January 2027
- Initial contract: 1 year (renewable to a maximum of 3 years)
- Annual stipend: R270 000
- Research‑expense allowance: R30 000 per year
- Job ID: 6552
Who can apply
You must have earned a PhD within the last five years in one of the following fields:
- Wildlife Science or Management
- Conservation Biology
- Ecology or Zoology
- Rangeland or Animal Science
- A closely related discipline
Other required experience:
- Published peer‑reviewed articles (at least two per year expected)
- Field‑based wildlife or ecological research
- Undergraduate teaching and practical‑training experience
- Ability to supervise honours, master’s and doctoral students
- Strong scientific writing and communication skills
- Valid driver’s licence
- Willingness to relocate to Bloemfontein and work full‑time
Both South African citizens and foreign nationals may apply.
What you will gain
- Hands‑on research on African wildlife populations
- Mentorship from senior researchers
- Opportunities to publish at least two peer‑reviewed papers each year
- Funding for conference travel and research equipment
- Experience in university teaching, curriculum development and postgraduate supervision
- Training in modern tools such as GPS telemetry, GIS, remote sensing, drones and AI
- Potential to extend the fellowship up to three years based on performance
How to apply
- Prepare the following documents:
- Motivation letter (explaining research, teaching, supervision and tech experience)
- Full CV, including publications and conference presentations
- List of all scholarly outputs
- Official academic transcripts
- Copies of your PhD certificate, ID/passport and driver’s licence
- Names and contact details of three academic referees
- Write a clear subject line: Postdoctoral Research Fellowship – Wildlife Science – Job ID 6552
- Email all attachments to Professor Francois Deacon at deaconf@ufs.ac.za. Address the email to “Professor Francois Deacon”.
- Send the application before 23:59 on 21 August 2026. Late submissions will not be considered.
Tips to improve your chances
- Highlight any work with GPS, GIS, drones, remote sensing or AI in your CV.
- Show concrete examples of teaching modules you have delivered or helped develop.
- Include clear evidence of supervising students or mentoring research projects.
- Provide three referees who can speak to both your research quality and teaching ability.
- Proofread your motivation letter – a well‑structured, concise letter makes a strong impression.
- Make sure your driver’s licence copy is legible; field work often requires travel.
Next steps
If you meet the criteria, gather your documents and send the email today. Applying early gives you extra time to double‑check everything. This fellowship can launch a career in wildlife research, teaching and conservation leadership. Good luck!
