University Of Kwazulu Natal (UKZN) University Dean of Research Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) is seeking to appoint an accomplished and visionary University Dean of Research. This is a five-year fixed-term appointment based at the Westville Campus.

This strategic leadership role involves providing management for the University's research portfolio. The successful candidate will report to the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) and will be central to strengthening an environment that promotes high-quality, impactful research, aligning with UKZN's research objectives and strategic priorities.

The role focuses on leadership in research management and development, building research capacity, monitoring research outputs, engaging with funding agencies, and fostering national and international research collaborations.

Minimum Requirements

• A Doctoral Degree.
• Must be at full Professorial level.
• At least 10 years’ experience in an academic and/or research environment.

Key Responsibilities

• Provide strategic leadership in the planning, development and implementation of research policies, strategies and initiatives across the University.
• Support the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) in providing leadership and oversight of the Research Office.
• Coordinate and manage the activities of the Research Office and ensure effective organisational structures, processes, systems and communication channels.
• Provide leadership for institutional research capacity-building initiatives, including research development programmes, supervision and writing workshops, doctoral development initiatives and research rating support.
• Work with College Deans of Research and other relevant stakeholders to identify research development needs and implement appropriate interventions and support programmes.
• Monitor and manage research outputs across the University and identify opportunities to strengthen research productivity and impact.
• Oversee the submission of research outputs for subsidy purposes and the management of publication awards and related research output processes.
• Provide advice and support on research policies, procedures, grants and research management matters.
• Oversee the University’s engagement with external research funding agencies and ensure that grant applications, reports and other requirements are managed and submitted timeously.
• Oversee external research grants and contracts managed through the Research Office.
• Manage and promote national and international research linkages and partnerships with higher education institutions, industry and other relevant organisations.
• Support the development and implementation of national and international research linkage programmes and partnerships.
• Provide oversight of the University’s research ethics processes and ensure that the relevant committees operate effectively in accordance with University policy.
• Oversee the compilation and production of the University’s Annual Research Report.
• Provide leadership in the coordination of the University’s research awards and fellowships.
• Advise the Deputy Vice-Chancellor (Research) and relevant University structures on research-related matters, including research funding and budgetary considerations.
• Provide effective leadership and management of staff within the Research Office and promote a culture of performance, accountability, collaboration and service excellence.

How to Apply

To apply for this opportunity, please download and complete the application form available at the link below:

• Application Form: http://vacancies.ukzn.ac.za/Libraries/General_Documents/Application_form_-_Support.sflb.ashx

Ensure your application is submitted by 11 September 2026.