FACULTY OF NATURAL AND APPLIED SCIENCE DEPARTMENT OF GEOLOGY VACANCY NO : IRC 3353 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.
- A t least nine (9) years of relevant teaching experience at a university or comparable institution.
- Professional registration: Membership/Registration (or eligibility for registration) with BQA or a relevant and recognized professional body.
- (i) 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;
- (ii) An academic book may be equivalent to a maximum of 4 articles in refereed/accredited journals, depending on the quality of standing;
- (iii) sustained research output: a minimum of 3 peer-reviewed publications every four years;
- (vi) Sustained research activity: on-going externally supported research (e.g., funded/commissioned);
- (iv) paper/poster presentations at international conferences at least once every two years;
- (v) be lead and/or single author in at least one-quarter of the required journal publications in Mineralogy/ Crystallography, Optical Mineralogy, and Petrography.
- (vi) evidence of mentorship of early career scholars/graduate students;
- (vii) publications should be spread internationally and across journals;
- (viii) 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);
- (ix) 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);
- (x) evidence of governance and social engagement;
- (x) research collaborations with other institutions or organisations;
- (xi) research collaboration with cognate disciplines in the University;
- (xii) evidence of being an external examiner for Masters and/or PhD theses internationally.
- (xiii) Demonstration and evidence of academic leadership in a University environment.
- Research awards and other forms of research recognition.
- The curriculum vitae (CV) should contain a detailed list of publications, clearly specifying the titles of publications, ISBN numbers (for books, book chapters, and conference proceedings), dates published, names of publishers, names of co-authors (if any), and the number of pages. The work should be categorised into books, book chapters, refereed journals, non-refereed works, and consultancies.
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
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 are the essential academic qualifications and experience for a Professor of Mineralogy/Geology at the University of Botswana?
This role typically requires a PhD in Mineralogy, Geology, Earth Sciences, or a closely related field from a recognized institution. Extensive post-doctoral research experience, a strong publication record in reputable journals, and a demonstrated history of successful university-level teaching and supervision are also crucial.
What are the typical day-to-day responsibilities of a Professor in Mineralogy/Geology at the University of Botswana?
Daily tasks involve delivering lectures and practicals to undergraduate and postgraduate students, conducting independent research in mineralogy or geology, and supervising student theses. You will also be expected to contribute to curriculum development, departmental meetings, and engage in community outreach activities.
What is the work culture like for academics at the University of Botswana, and what are the general expectations?
The academic culture at the University of Botswana values professionalism, collegiality, and a strong commitment to both teaching and research excellence. Expectations include active participation in university life, adherence to established academic policies, and a dedication to contributing to national development through your expertise.
What are the realistic career progression opportunities for a Professor of Mineralogy/Geology at the University of Botswana?
Career progression typically involves moving into higher administrative roles within the department or faculty, such as Head of Department or Dean, or contributing to university-wide committees. Opportunities also exist for leading major research projects, securing significant grants, and gaining national or international recognition in your field.
What are the typical benefits offered to a Professor at the University of Botswana, such as leave, medical aid, and pension?
Academic staff generally receive a competitive benefits package, which includes various types of leave, comprehensive medical aid schemes, and participation in a contributory pension fund. Additional benefits often encompass professional development support and housing allowances or subsidies.
What is the application process for academic positions at the University of Botswana, and what do they look for in candidates?
Applicants typically submit a detailed CV, academic transcripts, research statement, teaching philosophy, and contact information for referees through the university's HR portal. The University of Botswana looks for candidates with strong academic credentials, a proven track record in research and teaching, and an ability to contribute to the university's mission and the development of Botswana.