Call for Applications: Postdocs (2)

The SARChI Chair in Interdisciplinary Science in Land and Natural Resource Use for Sustainable Livelihoods in the Department of Environmental Science at Rhodes University, Grahamstown (South Africa) is currently held by Professor Charlie Shackleton. The broad focus of the Chair’s is interdisciplinary research into understandings of natural resources in rural and urban livelihoods for poverty alleviation. Applications are currently open for two post-doctoral positions from ecological, social or economic scientists. Interested applicants must be able to demonstrate their prior work and expertise in, or application of such to, any one of the three research areas:

  1. Ecology, use, valuation of non-timber forest products in rural and/or urban livelihoods for human wellbeing and poverty alleviation.
  2. Urban forestry/ecology in developing countries undergoing rapid urbanisation.
  3. Trees and wild foods in contributing to food security, dietary diversity and health.

Both positions are for a one year appointment initially, potentially renewable up to a maximum of three years based on satisfactory performance. The fellowship is worth R200,000 (tax free) per annum. This is a full-time-time position and candidates would be required to be based in Grahamstown, unless on project-based, work-related field trips. The starting date is as soon as possible.

Applicants must have (i) completed a PhD or D.Phil degree within the last five years in an appropriate discipline and topic, (ii) published two or more research papers in peer-reviewed journals of good standing, (iii) an interest in working in interdisciplinary teams, (iv) a valid driver’s license and (v) fluency in written and verbal English. Knowledge or use of social-ecological systems frameworks would be an advantage.

To apply, please send (i) a full CV, (ii) name and contact details of three recent referees, (iii) an academic transcript and (iv) a letter of motivation. In your letter, please indicate which of the three subject areas you are interested in. Please send the applications to the Chair Administrator, Ms Kate Benyon (k.l.benyon@ru.ac.za).

For queries please contact Ms Kate Benyon (k.l.Benyon@ru.ac.za; 046-603 7585 (mornings only)).

Information on the department is available at: www.ru.ac.za/static/departments/environsci/