University of Free State Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2025-2026 (Fully Funded)

The University of the Free State is excited to announce the availability of the Postdoctoral Research Fellowship for the academic years 2025-2026. This fellowship aims to support exceptional doctoral graduates seeking to gain research experience and foster innovation within a prestigious higher education institution, all under the mentorship of experienced researchers. The fellowship is fully funded and takes place in Bloemfontein, South Africa.

This opportunity is linked to a competitive research grant awarded by the South African National Research Foundation (NRF) in collaboration with the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF). Selection for the fellowship will be based on the candidates’ academic accomplishments, research potential, and the relevance of their previous experience. The fellowship is offered for a duration of two years (2025–2026).

Summary:

Fellowship Sponsors: South African National Research Foundation (NRF) & Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF)

Host Institution: University of the Free State (UFS), South Africa

Funding Amount: R 300,000 annually

Number of Awards: Not specified

Level of Study: Postdoctoral

Eligible Nationality: Open to all nationalities

Eligibility Criteria for the University of Free State Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2025-2026

To qualify for the University of Free State Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, applicants must fulfill the following criteria:

• Hold a PhD in a relevant field obtained within the past five years. Relevant disciplines include, but are not limited to, translation studies, media translation, ethnography, digital humanities, discourse analysis, pragmatics, and sociolinguistics.
• Be proficient in at least English and French.
• Not be engaged in full-time salaried employment during the fellowship.
• Be prepared to relocate to the University of the Free State for the fellowship duration. This is a residential fellowship, and the successful candidate must spend 80% of their postdoctoral tenure at UFS.
• Have a strong understanding of the socio-political landscape of Africa.

Application Procedures

Interested candidates for the University of Free State Postdoctoral Research Fellowship should complete the online application available on the official program website and send the following documents via email to Dr. Marlie van Rooyen at vanrooyenm1@ufs.ac.za:

A motivation letter that includes a 1-2 page summary of relevant skills and experiences.

An updated CV that lists research publications, conference presentations, and other scholarly contributions that showcase relevant expertise.

Complete academic transcripts and a copy of the doctoral degree certificate.

A copy of the ID document (or a passport for international applicants).

Contact details of two academic referees who have taught or supervised the applicant, including at least one lead PhD supervisor.

For more information and updates, please visit the official website of the University of the Free State.
Application Deadline: October, 2024