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 Professor in Mineralogy/Geology in the Department of Geology . The Professor in Mineralogy/Geology is responsible for making original contributions to the Geology discipline, research and scholarship. The incumbent plays a critical role and provides leadership in scholarship and research internationally and makes significant contribution in the governance of the institution.
Job Summary
- Type: full-time
- Location: Gaborone
- Category: Education
- Closing Date: 2026-08-10
Key Responsibilities
- Teach at least three of the following: Mineralogy/Crystallography, Optical Mineralogy and Petrography at undergraduate and graduate levels.
- Take an active role in supervising and assessing.
- Guide and support students in the adoption of a broad range of learning practices appropriate to the discipline.
- Provide Exemplary evidence of inquiry-based teaching and learning across a range of levels.
- Demonstrate coherence between philosophy and practice.
- Review programmes/ courses to ensure they are relevant to and up to date with local, international, global and disciplinary contexts, as well as engagement with students, stakeholders and peers.
- Ensure alignment between programmes/ courses and respective outcomes, teaching and learning activities, and assessment methods and criteria.
- Analyze assessment processes and student assessment results to inform curriculum practice.
- Secure external funding to support research and elevate the university’s reputation.
- Mentor graduate students, postdocs, and junior faculty for their scholarly development.
- Shape future research agendas within the Geology discipline and broader society. Serve consistently as external reviewer of other international institutions.
- Contribute to the development of intellectual property that benefits the university.
- Demonstrate excellent leadership in policy formulation and Research Institute management within the university.
- Provide effective leadership in change management across the entire university.
- Contribute to curriculum development and governmental advisory groups.
- Promote ethical research conduct and high academic standards.
- Represent the university in professional networks and forums, enhancing the institution’s reputation.
- Participate in the identification and mitigation of operational risks.
- Provide leadership in programme development, quality assurance, and staff and student support.
- Engage in thesis examination and committee activities.
- Undertake any other duties as required by the University in line with this role.
Requirements
- A PhD/ Doctoral degree in Mineralogy/ Crystallography/Geology is required.
- At least nine (9) years of relevant teaching experience at a university or comparable institution.
- Membership/Registration (or eligibility for registration) with BQA or a relevant and recognized professional body.
- A minimum of 24 pieces of research products (e.g. articles, book chapters, peer-reviewed conference proceedings, among others) published by recognised publishers twelve (12) of these must be articles in refereed/accredited journals in internationally recognised indexing databases. The remaining twelve publications could be journal articles, book chapters, peer-reviewed conference proceedings, etc., published by recognised publishers;
- An academic book may be equivalent to a maximum of 4 articles in refereed/accredited journals, depending on the quality of standing;
- sustained research output: a minimum of 3 peer-reviewed publications every four years;
- Sustained research activity: on-going externally supported research (e.g., funded/commissioned);
- paper/poster presentations at international conferences at least once every two years;
- be lead and/or single author in at least one-quarter of the required journal publications in Mineralogy/ Crystallography, Optical Mineralogy, and Petrography.
- evidence of mentorship of early career scholars/graduate students;
- publications should be spread internationally and across journals;
- significant research impact, including but not limited to citations, the h-index, patents, policy applications, peer reviews, publications that are prescribed texts in other institutions etc. (required in at least 3 of the these);
- acknowledged by peers as being of national and international research standing (e.g. peer review of new research proposals; reference in research committees; editor/guest editor/reviewer of refereed/accredited national and international publishers; editorial board member of an international publisher in a relevant field; invitations as keynote speaker at national and international/symposia (required in at least 3 of the these);
- evidence of governance and social engagement;
- research collaborations with other institutions or organisations;
- research collaboration with cognate disciplines in the University;
- evidence of being an external examiner for Masters and/or PhD theses internationally.
- Demonstration and evidence of academic leadership in a University environment.
- Research awards and other forms of research recognition (added advantage).
Salary
The University of Botswana offers a competitive salary and benefits commensurate with experience and qualifications.
How to Apply
To apply, please visit: ub.bw
REF Code: IRC 3353 | Vacancy Circular No: IRC 3353
About the Company
The University of Botswana (UB) stands as the nation's premier institution for higher learning, with its main campus primarily located in Gaborone. Established in 1982, it plays a critical role in advancing the intellectual and human resource capacity essential for Botswana's socio-economic development. UB offers a comprehensive range of undergraduate and postgraduate programmes across diverse faculties, including sciences, humanities, business, and education. The university is deeply committed to fostering robust research and innovation, addressing key societal challenges and contributing to the economic diversification of Botswana. Through its dedication to academic excellence and community engagement, UB actively prepares skilled professionals who drive progress across all sectors within Botswana.
Shaping the Future
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the typical qualifications and certifications required for a Professor in Mineralogy/Geology at a university in Botswana?
A terminal degree, usually a PhD in Mineralogy, Geology, or a closely related field, is essential. Candidates must also demonstrate a strong track record of research, publications in reputable journals, and significant university-level teaching experience. Relevant professional certifications or memberships, while not always mandatory, can also strengthen an application.
What are the common day-to-day responsibilities for a Professor in Mineralogy/Geology at the University of Botswana?
Daily tasks involve delivering lectures and practical sessions to undergraduate and postgraduate students, conducting independent and collaborative research, and supervising student theses. Additionally, professors contribute to curriculum development, participate in departmental and university administrative duties, and engage in community outreach related to their field.
What is the typical academic work culture like at a university in Botswana, and what are the expectations for a Professor?
The academic culture at universities in Botswana emphasizes collaboration, mentorship, and a commitment to national development through research and education. Professors are expected to be highly professional, engage actively with students and colleagues, and contribute to the institution's mission of producing skilled graduates and relevant research for Botswana and the region.
What are the realistic career progression paths for a Professor in Mineralogy/Geology in Botswana?
Career progression typically involves moving through academic ranks, from Senior Lecturer to Associate Professor, and eventually to Full Professor, based on research output, teaching excellence, and service. Opportunities also exist for leadership roles within the department or faculty, such as Head of Department or Dean, and engaging in national or international research collaborations.
What typical benefits, such as leave, medical aid, and pension, can a Professor expect at the University of Botswana?
University of Botswana generally offers a competitive benefits package, which typically includes a generous annual leave allowance and opportunities for study leave. Employees usually have access to a group medical aid scheme, often subsidized by the university, and participation in a defined contribution pension fund is standard.
How should one apply for such a position in Botswana, and what do employers like the University of Botswana typically look for?
Applicants should submit a detailed curriculum vitae, a compelling cover letter, research statement, and teaching philosophy, tailored to the specific job advertisement. Employers seek candidates with strong academic credentials, a proven track record of impactful research and teaching, and a demonstrated ability to contribute to the university's strategic goals and the local context.