Durban University Of Technology (DUT) Academic Positions - Data Science and Artificial Intelligence Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

The Durban University of Technology (DUT), a prominent institution on South Africa's east coast with campuses in Durban and Pietermaritzburg, is establishing a new Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence. With roots extending to 1907 and a modern, multi-campus presence, DUT is home to over 34,400 students and approximately 1,700 staff, recognised for its commitment to teaching, research, innovation, entrepreneurship, and community engagement.

The Institute for Data Science and Artificial Intelligence is being created as a university-wide research capability. Its mission is to advance rigorous, locally grounded, and trustworthy data science and AI, develop scarce postgraduate expertise, build African datasets and methods, and collaborate with various sectors to generate scientific, societal, and economic value. This initiative reflects DUT's philosophy of shaping adaptive graduates who transform society and its institutional purpose of improving lives and livelihoods.

DUT is currently inviting applications for six permanent academic positions within this new Institute, comprising two Professors, two Associate Professors, and two Senior Lecturers. These roles will contribute to core research themes, including African Data, Language, and Knowledge Intelligence; Trustworthy, Responsible, and Human-Centred AI; and AI for Sustainable Systems and Public Value. Detailed information is provided below for one of the Professor roles focused on African-Language AI.

Minimum Requirements

For the Professor: African-Language AI, Natural-Language Processing and Speech Technologies position, applicants must meet the following:

• A doctoral degree (NQF 10) in Computer Science, Artificial Intelligence, Data Science, Computational Linguistics, Electrical/Electronic or Computer or Communication or Information Engineering, or a closely related qualification relevant to the theme.
• A strong record of research and/or academic leadership in African-Language AI, natural-language processing, and speech technologies.
• A substantial and sustained period of distinguished academic experience in research and/or professional experience in a higher education or research environment with recognised standing in the field.

Key Responsibilities

The Professor: African-Language AI, Natural-Language Processing and Speech Technologies will be responsible for:

• Establishing and leading a focused research programme in African-language AI, natural-language processing, and speech technologies.
• Working actively within Theme 1: African Data, Language and Knowledge Intelligence.
• Collaborating across the Institute's data, responsible-AI, and public-value platforms.
• Producing research that is scientifically rigorous, contextually valid, and responsibly translated.

What the Work Involves

As a Professor in African-Language AI, you will be at the forefront of establishing and driving a critical research agenda. Your day-to-day will involve designing and overseeing research projects, guiding postgraduate students, and actively contributing to the Institute's foundational themes. You will work within an academic and research-intensive environment at the Durban University of Technology, with responsibilities that may span multiple campuses and involve engaging with external partners. This role requires disciplinary depth, interdisciplinary judgement, and a commitment to producing impactful research.

How to Apply

To apply for these academic positions, please use the official DUT application portal. Applicants should ensure they apply for the position whose stated specialisation most closely matches their research record.

Apply Online: https://dut.simplify.hr/Vacancy/Apply/bqolej

Closing Date: 02 October 2026