Associate Professor Mechanical Engineering

Overview: The purpose of this academic post is to provide academic leadership in learning and teaching within Mechanical Engineering at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, and to contribute meaningfully to research, innovation, and postgraduate supervision. The incumbent is expected to develop and strengthen research capacity within the department, engage in scholarly and professional service, and contribute to the core academic and strategic functions of Nelson Mandela University. KEY PERFORMANC E AREAS 1. Academic Leadership and Teaching Excellence •Deliver high-quality undergraduate and postgraduate innovation teaching pedagogically approaches(blended learning, problem-based learning, research-led teaching) informed by current research and industry practice. •Lead module coordination and ensure quality assurance, moderation, and continuous improvement of assessment practices. •Perform administration including preparation for and participation in quality review and accreditation processes •Develop into providing leadership in curriculum development, renewal, and alignment with national accreditation standards (e.g., ECSA/CHE where applicable). •Perform any reasonable task requested as required to fulfill the operational needs of the Department of Mechanical Engineering •Supervising final year undergraduate projects. •Potential to offer SLP’s 2. Research Leadership and Scholarly Output •Maintain a sustained record of high-quality, peer-reviewed publications in accredited journals. •Demonstrate research leadership through applying for NRF rating (where applicable) and national/international recognition. •Develop and lead funded research projects and secure external grants. •Contribute to interdisciplinary and strategic research focus areas aligned with institutional priorities. •Supervise and mentor emerging researchers toward publication productivity. 3. Postgraduate Supervision and Capacity Development •Supervise Honours, Masters and Doctoral candidates to successful completion within prescribed timeframes. •Develop structured research training frameworks to strengthen postgraduate throughput and quality. •Examine postgraduate theses internally and externally at national and international institutions. •Build supervisory capacity within the department through co-supervision and mentorship. •Facilitate postgraduate research workshops/seminars and scholarly communities of practice. 4. Engagement, Industry Collaboration and Societal Impact •Establish and sustain partnerships with industry, professional bodies, and community stakeholders to lead or participate in engaged scholarship projects. •Contribute to professional societies and regulatory bodies relevant to the discipline. •Promote commercialization, innovation, and applied research outputs where applicable.

DISCLAIMER: Nelson Mandela University is a designated employer committed to pursuing excellence, diversity, inclusion, and redress in achieving its employment equity targets. Preference will be given to suitably qualified (Race and Gender) candidates in accordance with the University's employment equity targets. No applications will be accepted after the closing date Friday, 17 July 2026.