Employer: Rhodes University Professor/Associate Professor in African Languages in the School of Languages and Literatures AND Interim Research Chair in Intellectualisation of African Languages, Multilingualism and Education (18 Months) The School of Languages and Literatures is looking for suitably qualified candidates to join their team as a Professor/Associate Professor of African Languages (Permanent), as well as serve as the Interim Research Chair in Intellectualisation of African Languages, Multilingualism and Education, for a period of 18 months. All academics are responsible for disseminating knowledge (teaching and learning), creating knowledge (research), and engaging in community engagement, recognising differences in executing these responsibilities within the various departments and faculties.  Academics are also expected to assume administrative, management, and/or leadership duties at the departmental, faculty, and/or university levels. Furthermore, the successful incumbent would be required to come up with their own work plan for the remainder of the Chair period (July 2026 - December 2027) to submit to the NRF for approval. The Requirements Associate Professor + A PhD in Sociolinguistics or Applied Language Studies. + Considerable teaching experience across a range of courses at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels. + Experience teaching and research in the following disciplinary areas, such as IsiXhosa Language Teaching, Language planning, Terminology, Lexicography, with a focus on African Languages. + Relevant supervision of Master’s degrees to completion is required. Supervising PhD degrees to completion is an advantage. + Approaches to teaching & learning and research that emphasise engagement with communities will be an advantage. + National and emerging international profile in the discipline and substantial publication record in peer-reviewed publications. + Proven track record and an active interest in administration, management and leadership. Professor + A PhD in Sociolinguistics or Applied Language Studies. + Extensive teaching experience across a range of courses at the undergraduate and postgraduate levels is required. + Experience teaching and research in the following disciplinary areas, such as IsiXhosa Language Teaching, Language planning, Terminology, Lexicography, with a focus on African Languages. + Relevant supervision of Master’s and PhD degrees to completion is required. + Approaches to teaching & learning and research that emphasise engagement with communities will be an advantage. + International profile in the discipline (Very good to outstanding research track record). + Proven track record and an active interest in administration, management and leadership. Application Process It is essential that prospective candidates read the role profile and further particulars document for further information and ensure that all relevant documentation is submitted. The following documents are required: + A comprehensive CV and relevant qualifications which should include the following: - - At least three referees who are and/or were your direct line manager, their title, name, designation and contact information which should be at least their contact number and email address. + A substantial motivation which tells us: - Your research trajectory. - Your teaching approach and experience. - The level you are applying for, your interest in the post and suitability in light of the requirements. If artificial intelligence was utilised in the preparation of your application, please disclose this information along with a description of how it was used. Please note that no hand-written applications will be considered. Your application must be submitted via our website and online recruitment system. Failure to submit all documentation and respond to all the questions asked appropriately will result in an application being disqualified. Any questions or enquiries regarding the submission of an application, please contact hrrecruitment@ru.ac.za. Selection Process: + The selection process that will be followed for this post will include an assessment and/or presentation and an interview. + Shortlisted candidates will be informed of the interview date. Remuneration per annum: Associate Professor Basic Pensionable Salary per annum:                          R   987,607.00 Cost to Company per annum (Approximately):             R1,270,054.00 Professor Basic Pensionable Salary per annum:                          R1,209,763.00 Cost to Company per annum (Approximately):             R1,546,213.00 Research Chairs are remunerated on a different schedule. All applications will be treated in strict confidence.  The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application in and of itself does not entitle the applicant to an interview.  Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates. Closing Date: 10 April 2026 This advertisement may be closed before the indicated closing date if a high number of applications are received. To ensure your application is considered, please submit it as soon as possible. If you are not contacted within 30 days from the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful. Our core values and principles are the foundation of our commitment to creating a positive, supportive, and enabling environment. These values guide our decisions, actions, and how we engage with each other as we work to achieve our vision and mission. These values are: Diversity; Integrity; Respect; Excellence; Collegiality and Compassion Recognising that diversity is important in achieving excellence. Rhodes University strongly encourages South African members of underrepresented designated groups, as well as persons with disabilities, to apply. Spouses and partners of existing staff members are also encouraged to apply. Please note all appointments are made in line with the requirements of the Employment Equity Act of 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act No. 13 of 2022 and the University's Recruitment and Selection policies.