The University of Botswana (UB), a premier state-owned tertiary institution dedicated to shaping the future through excellence, research, innovation and meaningful societal impact, invites applications from accomplished and suitably qualified professionals for the position of Lecturer in Statistics, Demography and Population Studies in the Department of Statistics, Demography and Population Studies under the School of Computer, Mathematics and Statistics Science.
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
To apply, please visit: ub.bw
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 to become a Lecturer in Statistics, Demography and Population Studies at the University of Botswana?
A minimum of a Master's degree in Statistics, Demography, Population Studies, or a closely related field is usually required, though a PhD is increasingly preferred for permanent positions. Relevant professional certifications in statistical software or demographic analysis methods can strengthen your application. Prior teaching or research experience at a tertiary institution is highly valued.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a lecturer in this field at a Botswana university?
Daily duties include preparing and delivering lectures on statistical methods and population dynamics, supervising undergraduate and postgraduate research projects, and grading assignments and examinations. Lecturers also conduct independent research for publication, participate in departmental meetings, and may contribute to community outreach or policy advisory work related to Botswana's national development plans.
How does the academic work culture at the University of Botswana differ from private sector employment?
Academic culture emphasizes intellectual autonomy, research output, and collegial governance through committee participation rather than hierarchical management. Work schedules are flexible but demanding, with peak periods during semester teaching and examination marking. Respect for seniority and formal protocols in interactions is customary in Botswana's public university setting.
What career progression opportunities exist for lecturers in this field within Botswana's higher education system?
Progression typically follows the ranks of Lecturer, Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Professor based on research publications, teaching excellence, and administrative contributions. Opportunities exist to move into departmental leadership roles such as Head of Department or Dean, or to join national statistical offices and international organizations like UNFPA. Pursuing a doctorate is essential for advancing beyond senior lecturer level.
What employment benefits are generally offered to academic staff at public universities in Botswana?
Benefits usually include membership in the Botswana Public Officers Pension Fund, subsidized medical aid schemes, and generous annual leave allowances typically exceeding standard private sector provisions. Housing allowances or university accommodation may be available, along with research grants and sabbatical leave for further study. Specific entitlements vary by appointment type and are detailed in Public Service Act regulations.
How should I apply for a lecturer position, and what do selection committees in Botswana prioritize?
Applications are submitted through the University of Botswana's official recruitment portal with a detailed CV, certified academic transcripts, and contactable referees. Selection committees prioritize demonstrated research capability, relevance of expertise to Botswana's development priorities such as HIV/AIDS demographics or migration studies, and alignment with the university's strategic goals. A well-articulated teaching philosophy and evidence of community engagement strengthen candidacy.
