University Of The Free State (UFS) Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Vacancy 2026
University Of The Free State (UFS)
Education & Training (ETDP SETA)
More University Of The Free State (UFS) posts →Monthly stipend
Not stated
Closing date
18 Sept 2026
14 days left
- Opportunity
- Contract
- Minimum education
- Postgraduate (NQF 8+)
- Location
- Bloemfontein, Free State
- SETA
- ETDP SETA
- Posted
- 04 Sept 2026
Sourced via the GovPage vacancy bulletin, last confirmed there by our scraper on 4 September 2026.
The apply link goes directly to ufs.hua.hrsmart.com — applications never pass through SetaJobs.
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How this salary compares
At R22 500 a month, this post pays below the median of R40 600 for contract posts (14 listings that publish a figure). The middle half of that group pays between R20 466 and R48 009.
- 25th percentile
- R20 466
- Median
- R40 600
- 75th percentile
- R48 009
This post sits in the 32nd percentile of that group. Figures are the advertised package converted to a monthly amount — before tax, pension and medical contributions, so take-home pay is lower.
Calculated by SetaJobs from the 14 comparable posts open on this site that publish a figure. Amounts advertised per year are divided by twelve; a quoted range is taken at its midpoint.
Opportunity Overview
The University of the Free State (UFS) invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship within its Department of Mathematical Statistics and Actuarial Science. This opportunity is designed for individuals eager to pursue an academic or professional career in statistical research.
Candidates with a special interest in Bayesian modelling and mixed models are particularly encouraged to apply. The fellowship is available for a period of one year, with the possibility of renewal for up to three years based on satisfactory performance.
Minimum Requirements
- Must have graduated with a PhD degree in a relevant discipline within the last five years.
- Open to all South African and foreign nationals.
- Applicants may not hold full-time salaried employment during the fellowship period.
- Must be able to relocate to the UFS for the duration of the fellowship, spending 80% of the postdoctoral period at the UFS Bloemfontein Campus.
Key Responsibilities
- Conduct innovative research in Bayesian modelling.
- Author or co-author at least three (3) publication outputs per year, such as DHET–accredited scholarly journal articles or chapters in books.
- Initiate new research projects and actively seek funding for them.
- Register and reside as a postdoctoral research fellow at the UFS.
- Participate in relevant activities organized by the Department of Mathematical Statistics and Actuarial Sciences.
- Submit an annual progress report to support fellowship renewal.
What the Work Involves
This fellowship involves dedicated, innovative research in Bayesian modelling. Day-to-day work will include focused research activities, leading to the regular production of scholarly articles and contributions to books, with a target of at least three publications annually. Fellows will also be proactive in developing new research initiatives and securing funding to support these projects. The role is residential, requiring a significant presence on the UFS Bloemfontein Campus, where fellows will integrate into the Department of Mathematical Statistics and Actuarial Science and participate in its academic and research life.
How to Apply
To apply, please email the following documentation by 18 September 2026 to mathiascorreaf@ufs.ac.za:
- A motivation letter, including a 1-2-page outline of your relevant expertise and experience.
- Your full Curriculum Vitae (CV), which must include a comprehensive list of research publications, conference papers, and other scholarly outputs.
- Full transcripts of your academic record and a copy of your doctoral degree certificate.
- A copy of your ID document (South African applicants) or a copy of your passport (foreign applicants).
- The contact details of two academic referees who have either taught or supervised your work.
This listing in context
What the 335 opportunities we currently hold say about this one.
- Live contract posts
- 63
- In Free State
- 2
- Closing within 7 days
- 1
22% of the 63 live contract posts we hold ask for Postgraduate (NQF 8+). The commonest requirement is Degree (NQF 7), at 37%.
Live contract posts stay open for a median of 14 days between posting and closing date.
Calculated by SetaJobs from the 335 listings open on this site right now, and updated as they change. Browse all 9 opportunities in Free State.
What you'll need to apply
Municipalities, state-owned companies and public entities each run their own process, mostly on their own application form rather than the Z83 — use a Z83 only where this advert asks for one. Send exactly what it lists.
- The employer’s own application form
- Your CV
- Certified copy of your ID
- Certified copies of any qualifications
What a fixed-term post involves
A contract post is employment for a defined period or project. The work and the requirements are usually identical to a permanent post at the same level — the difference is the end date. Contract staff generally receive the same salary scale, sometimes with benefits paid as an allowance instead of a fund contribution.
How the selection usually runs
- The screening and interview process mirrors a permanent post, and the minimum requirements are applied just as strictly.
- Contract posts are often filled faster than permanent ones, because the funding is tied to a project timeline.
What you leave with
Directly relevant experience at the level you want, and internal standing when a permanent post at that level is eventually advertised.
Where this leads next
Contract renewal or extension
Continued funding for the project or post.
Permanent appointment at the same level
Competing for the post when it is advertised — contract service does not convert automatically.
A higher level elsewhere
The experience the contract gave you, which is what the next advert is asking for.
A typical route, not a guarantee — progression depends on vacancies, funding and your own performance.
Watch out for this
Confirm what happens at the end of the term before you resign from something else. A fixed-term contract ends by expiry, and that is not a dismissal you can contest.
About ETDP SETA & this sector
ETDP SETA supports education, training and development roles — a common route into teaching, ECD and community education work.
