University Of The Free State (UFS) Researcher Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

The University of the Free State (UFS) invites applications for a Researcher position within its Academy for Multilingualism, based at the QwaQwa Campus. This is a significant opportunity to contribute to the university’s Terminology Development Project and broader initiatives in African languages, terminology, and multilingualism.

This role is integral to supporting language policy implementation and fostering collaboration across UFS faculties, departments, and with external stakeholders. The successful candidate will play a key part in advancing research and practical applications in this vital field.

Minimum Requirements

• For permanent appointment: A PhD (NQF Level 10) in the field of languages, linguistics, terminology development, lexicography, or related language studies.
• For contract appointment (five years, convertible to permanent): A Master of Arts degree (NQF Level 9) in the field of languages, linguistics, terminology development, lexicography, or related language studies. During this five-year period, a PhD (NQF Level 10) in the specified fields must be obtained for conversion to a permanent position.
• A minimum of two (2) years’ relevant experience in a terminology development project.
• Demonstrated experience working in a Higher Education Institution or a Government Department/Entity that specialises in African Language development activities.
• Evidence of manuscripts produced that have the potential to be converted or submitted for publication in accredited journals.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead and coordinate the activities of the UFS Terminology Development Project.
• Conduct research focused on the development of African languages, terminology development, and multilingualism initiatives.
• Coordinate language policy implementation initiatives within the Academy for Multilingualism.
• Work collaboratively with UFS faculties, departments, and external stakeholders on terminology development projects.

What the Work Involves

As a Researcher, you will be at the forefront of the UFS Terminology Development Project, taking the lead in coordinating its various activities. Your day-to-day work will involve conducting specialised research into African languages, terminology development, and multilingualism. You will also be responsible for coordinating the implementation of language policies within the Academy for Multilingualism.

This role requires a collaborative approach, working closely with various UFS faculties and departments, as well as engaging with external stakeholders on critical terminology development projects. The position is based at the UFS QwaQwa Campus, operating within an academic and research environment under the Deputy Vice-Chancellor: Academic, specifically within the Academy for Multilingualism.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online only through the official UFS vacancy website. Applications submitted via any other platform will not be considered.

To ensure your application is complete, you must submit all documents listed under the inherent requirements, in addition to the following standard documentation:

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
• Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (if you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
• A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for foreign nationals).
• Confirmation of employment in the form of a letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or recent payslip from your current or most recent employer (applicable to external applicants only).

The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, it is recommended to merge some or all documents into fewer files before submitting. Incomplete applications will not be considered.

Apply online here: https://ufs.hua.hrsmart.com/hr/ats/JobSearch/viewAll