Postdoctoral Research Fellowship (1-Year Contract, Renewable up to 3 Years): Department of Religion Studies (Job ID: 6319) – (2007) | University of the Free State
Job Location : Free State, Bloemfontein
Deadline : January 30, 2026
About the Role
This specialized role focuses on the high-level analysis of theological and cultural data within a strategic research framework. Utilizing Oracle for grant management and specialized data-coding software, the fellow ensures compliance with international research protocols. Their work mitigates operational risk in academic projects by providing the data-driven evidence necessary for high-impact publications and interdisciplinary collaboration.
Duties and responsibilities:
- Conduct innovative research with specific focus on African spirituality, and or religion and ecology.
- Author/co-author at least three (3) publication outputs per year in the form of DHET–accredited scholarly journal articles or books/chapters in books. The renewal of the fellowship beyond the first year depends on satisfactory performance and the submission of an annual progress report.
- Initiate projects and seek funding for them.
- Register and reside as a postdoctoral research fellow at the UFS and participate in relevant activities of the School of Postgraduate Studies and the Directorate of Research, and the Department of Religion Studies.
Eligibility requirements:
- Open to all South African and foreign nationals for full-time research at the University of the Free State.
- Graduated with a PhD degree in Religion studies discipline within the last five years.
- Successful applicants may not hold full-time salaried employment during the fellowship.
- Preference is given to candidates who will relocate to the UFS for the duration of the fellowship. This is a residential fellowship: the successful applicant is required to spend 80% of her/his postdoctoral period at the UFS.
Value of the fellowship:
- R 270 000 annual fellowship
- R 30 000 additional research expenses fund
Deadline:30th January,2026
Career Growth & Education
A PhD in Religion Studies or a related Social Science field, obtained within the last five years, is the mandatory foundation. Career growth leads to Senior Researcher or Associate Professor roles within global academic institutions. Pursuing specialized bootcamps in digital humanities and obtaining certifications in research management through professional workshops provides a path to senior roles in international NGOs and policy think-tanks.
Salary & Financial Insight
Fellowship stipends typically range from R25,000 to R35,000 per month (often tax-exempt), plus research travel allowances. Young researchers should focus on early financial literacy and starting a consistent savings habit in diversified unit trusts to build a solid foundation.
Interested and Qualified candidates should Click here to Apply Now
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