The Department of Statistics invite suitably qualified candidates to join their team. 

The Department - Description of the Department
The purpose of the Department of Statistics is:

• To produce graduates who have a sound knowledge of the major areas of statistical methodology, founded on rigorous theoretical principles which equip the graduate to acquire further knowledge and skills for the benefit of the country through their own study.
• To promote the use and knowledge of Statistics in all fields in which Statistics can contribute to a better understanding of scientific and social phenomena, and enhance the quality of decisions and conclusions made on the strength of the statistical approach.
• To contribute to the body of fundamental statistical science through research.

Main Objectives
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. In addition, they are expected to be actively involved in the development and advancement of their discipline through professional service.

• At least a Master’s in the Mathematical Statistical Sciences, but not in Operations Research / Applied Statistics / Decision Science / Analytics / Applied Mathematics. The Department of Statistics teaches mathematical statistics with emphasis on the development of the statistical theory and the subsequent application thereof, and not necessarily the application of statistics.
• Tutoring and facilitation are required, as well as conference presentations and some teaching experience, which are added advantages.
• Ability to teach in one or more of the following disciplinary areas of Mathematical Statistics at undergraduate levels: Distribution theory; Multivariate Analysis; General Linear Models, Generalised Linear Models; Classification/Statistical Learning; Bayesian Statistics; Financial Statistics; Stochastic Processes; Time Series Analysis; Bootstrap.
• Some research supervision of postgraduate degrees is an added advantage.
• Some administrative experience, albeit in informal contexts, e.g., student or sports clubs, and work experience.

• At least a PhD in the Mathematical Statistical Sciences, but not in Operations Research / Applied Statistics / Decision Science / Analytics / Applied Mathematics. The Department of Statistics teaches mathematical statistics with emphasis on the development of the statistical theory and the subsequent application thereof, and not necessarily the application of statistics.
• Teaching, facilitation, and conference presentation experience required.
• Experience in teaching in one or more of the following disciplinary areas of Mathematical Statistics at undergraduate and postgraduate levels: Distribution theory; Multivariate Analysis; General Linear Models, Generalised Linear Models; Classification/Statistical Learning; Bayesian Statistics; Financial Statistics; Stochastic Processes; Time Series Analysis; Bootstrap.
• Research supervision of Master's to completion and preferably PhD degrees required.
• Track record of research publications.
• Emerging national profile in the discipline.
• Track record of administration, management, and/or leadership roles (leadership roles may be informal).

Application Process

It is essential that prospective candidates read the job profile and further particulars and further particulars 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: -
  • Reasons for leaving your current and previous jobs.
  • 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 strong and succinct motivation outlining your interest in the post and suitability relative to the job requirements. 

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 046 603 7266.

Selection Process (provisional date, subject to change):

• Short-listing meeting scheduled for the TBC 2025.
• 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 (Grade SL/L):

Rhodes University offers competitive remuneration

All applications will be treated in strict confidence. This post is advertised as a permanent post, but the University may opt to appoint on a fixed-term contract of not less than three years. The University reserves the right not to proceed with the filling of the post. An application does not entitle the applicant to an interview.  Employment checks will be conducted on recommended candidates. 

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 55 of 1998, as amended, the Immigration Act 13 of 2022 and Rhodes University's Recruitment and Selection policies. 

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

Underpinning these values is the moral duty of accountability and courage: we acknowledge that we are answerable to each other, our Council and ultimately, the South African society for the decisions we make and the actions we take. We are committed to openness and transparency in our governance, our decision-making and in the execution of our responsibilities and in demonstrating courage in confronting those who violate the values for which we stand.