Job Summary
- Employer: University of Botswana
- Job Type: Full-time
- Location: Gaborone, Botswana
- Category: Education
- Salary: The University offers a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with qualifications and experience.
- Closing Date: 2026-10-22
Key Responsibilities
- Teach undergraduate and graduate courses in Biostatistics, Health Statistics, Design & Analysis of Clinical Trials, Categorical Data Analysis and related areas;
- Supervise both undergraduate and graduate student research projects;
- Conduct research in Statistics, Demography and Population Studies and also complement existing research activities in the area;
- Contribute to the development of and implementation of university, faculty and school level strategies, policies, plans, and procedures;
- Provide good disciplinary knowledge and ensure that use a range of learning practices;
- Develop, update, and deliver undergraduate and possibly some graduate courses;
- Design and administer assessments that accurately measure student learning outcomes;
- Present scholarly articles at national and international seminars and conferences;
- Develop portfolio of creative and professional work and participate in competitions to showcase contribution;
- Facilitate research capability development at community level;
- Contribute to the development of research proposals and implementation of projects;
- Participate in external research in efforts to boost the standing of the university/ institute as required;
- Participate in the identification and mitigation of operational risks;
- Collaborate with relevant internal and external stakeholders as needed to effectively deliver duties as defined;
- Assist with organizing faculty/ university symposium and conferences of national importance and perform any other duties and responsibilities as may be assigned by the Head of School/Departmental Chairperson.
Requirements
- A PhD in Statistics or a relevant related discipline;
- A Master’s Degree in Statistics or a relevant related field;
- A Bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline with at least a 2(i) pass or equivalent;
- show evidence of engagement in research.
Salary
The University offers a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with qualifications and experience.
How to Apply
Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3429
About the Company
The University of Botswana (UB) was established in 1982, as the first institution of higher education in Botswana. The university currently has three campuses: one in the capital city Gaborone, one in Francistown, and another in Maun. The University of Botswana is divided into six faculties: Business, Education, Engineering, Humanities, Health Sciences, Science and Social Sciences and the Sir Ketumile Masire Teaching Hospital. UB is ranked 1201–1500 in the world and 21st in sub-Saharan Africa in the 2024 Times Higher Education World University Ranking.
Frequently Asked Questions
What qualifications are typically required for a Lecturer position in Statistics, Demography and Population Studies at the University of Botswana?
A minimum of a Master's degree in Statistics, Demography, or a related field is usually required, though a PhD is often preferred for permanent academic positions. Relevant teaching experience and published research are highly valued. Professional certifications in statistical software or demographic analysis may strengthen your application.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Lecturer in this field?
Daily tasks include preparing and delivering lectures, supervising student research projects, and marking assignments and examinations. You will also conduct independent research, publish academic papers, and participate in departmental meetings and university committees. Community engagement and policy advisory work related to population studies are increasingly expected.
How does the academic work culture at Botswana universities typically operate?
The work culture emphasizes respect for hierarchy and collaborative decision-making through committees and faculty boards. Punctuality and formal communication are valued, though relationships are generally warm and collegial. There is growing pressure to balance teaching loads with research output and community service.
What career progression opportunities exist for Lecturers in Botswana's higher education sector?
Progression typically follows the ranks of Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Professor based on research publications, teaching excellence, and service contributions. Opportunities exist to move into administrative roles such as Head of Department or Dean. International research collaborations and sabbaticals are possible with institutional support.
What benefits are commonly offered to academic staff at public universities in Botswana?
Benefits usually include competitive pension schemes, medical aid contributions, and generous annual leave allowances. Housing or housing allowances and study leave for further qualifications are often available. Specific packages vary by institution and employment contract type.
How should I apply for a Lecturer position, and what do selection committees in Botswana prioritize?
Applications are typically submitted through the university's official portal with a detailed CV, certified academic transcripts, and contactable referees. Committees prioritize demonstrated research capability, relevant teaching experience, and alignment with national development priorities. A clear research agenda and evidence of community engagement strengthen your candidacy.