The University of the Free State (UFS) is looking for two post‑doctoral researchers to join the Faculty of Theology and Religion. If you have a fresh PhD and want to dive deeper into topics like African spirituality, how religion and the environment connect, or the role of faith in today’s technology‑filled world, these positions could be a great fit. The job starts in March 2026 and is based on UFS’s Bloemfontein campus.
1. Post‑Doctoral Research Fellowship – Department of Religion Studies
Job ID: 6319
Department: Religion Studies
What you’ll do
- Carry out original research on African Spirituality or the link between Religion and Ecology.
- Aim to publish at least three peer‑reviewed papers each year.
- Seek funding for projects you start.
- Take part in teaching and other research events in the department.
- Submit yearly progress reports to keep the fellowship going.
Who should apply
- Hold a PhD in Religion Studies (earned within the last five years).
- Open to both South African and international candidates.
- Must not have a full‑time salaried job right now.
- Be ready to move to UFS and spend most of the year (at least 80%) on campus.
Salary and support
- Annual stipend: R270 000.
- Extra R30 000 set aside for research expenses.
How to send your application
Send the following documents to Prof. Zoro Dube at dubez@ufs.ac.za:
- A motivation letter plus a 1–2 page summary of your expertise and experience.
- A complete CV that lists all your publications.
- Copies of your academic transcripts and PhD certificate.
- A copy of your ID or passport.
- Contact information for two academic referees.
2. Post‑Doctoral Research Fellowship – Centre for Interdisciplinary Research in Religion, Community and Ecologies (CIRRCE)
Job ID: 6317
Centre: CIRRCE
What you’ll explore
Pick one of these areas:
- Theology of Technology – how faith interacts with modern tech.
- Eco‑Humanities – conversations between theology and environmental studies.
- Philosophies of Embodiment – how bodies and spirituality relate.
Key tasks
- Publish three accredited research outputs each year.
- Launch and manage projects that bring in external funding.
- Support the broader research activities of CIRRCE.
- Join postgraduate and institutional research groups.
Who is eligible
- PhD in a related field completed in the last five years.
- Available from South Africa or overseas.
- Willing to relocate to UFS (this is a residential fellowship).
- Cannot have a full‑time salaried position at the same time.
- If your degree is from another country, you need an SAQA evaluation.
Stipend details
- Annual salary: R270 000.
- Research fund: R30 000 each year.
Apply by emailing
Dr Calvin Ullrich at UllrichCD@ufs.ac.za. Include:
- Motivation letter (1–2 pages).
- Full academic CV with publication list.
- Transcripts and PhD certificate.
- ID or passport copy.
- SAQA certificate if your degree is foreign.
- Names and contact details for two academic referees.
Why UFS is a good place to build a research career
UFS is a university that values research and encourages scholars to cross boundaries between disciplines. It focuses on fairness, diversity, and helping early‑career researchers grow.
If you become a fellow, you will get:
- A steady income to support your research.
- Opportunities to publish work that reaches a wide audience.
- Connections to other researchers and to funding bodies.
- Institutional support that helps you manage projects and publish results.
The university also gives priority to applicants from under‑represented groups, including people with disabilities, following its Employment Equity Plan.
Important reminders
- A complete application is needed; missing pieces will not be accepted.
- Only shortlisted candidates will hear back.
- If you haven’t heard from UFS six weeks after the deadline, it probably means your application wasn’t selected.
- All personal information is handled under South Africa’s POPIA rules.
Deadline – 30 January 2026
Don’t wait until the last minute – send your application early to avoid any delays.
Take the next step in your academic journey with UFS – a place where you can focus on research that matters, gain a supportive network, and earn a competitive stipend while you grow as a scholar. Good luck!