Lecturer in Science (Biology/ Chemistry)

The University of Fiji is seeking a dynamic, creative, and suitably qualified academic to join the University’s academic team in teaching, research, and outreach activities in the field of Biology/Chemistry. The position is based at Saweni Campus, but the successful candidate may be required to work from other University campuses or sites when required. The successful candidate will be responsible to the Dean of the School of Science & Technology through the Head of Department.

Responsibilities:

• Providing academic support and teaching in the Department with special research interests, qualifications, and scholarly experience in the areas of Molecular Biology, Conservation Biology, Plant Biology, Agricultural Systems, Crop Science, Climate Adaptations, and Organic Chemistry;
• Fulfil the Minimum Qualification Requirements (MQR) of the University at the relevant level;
• Ensure an excellent research and publication record in ranked journals and books;
• Pursuing excellence in teaching and learning, course coordination, and curriculum development, as well as engaging in other activities as required at relevant levels;
• Provide academic and research leadership to the Department and School;
• Regularly offer seminars and papers in areas of expertise to the University Community;
• Provide mentoring to Biology and Chemistry students in relation to the emergence of new technologies and techniques in the discipline;
• Contributing to the research strengths of the Department/University;
• Participating in curriculum review and academic administration for the Department and School;
• Participate in Committee, Departmental, and other administrative meetings;
• Engaging in research projects across a wide range of disciplines, including in the areas of Biology, Chemistry, Climate Adaptation, or food-security-related fields;
• Providing mentoring and advice to students;
• Participate in community engagement;
• Ensure the School and Department fulfil its Strategic Plan outputs and outcomes and provide regular reports to the Senate on new developments in the relevant field;
• Undertake a range of administrative functions at the School and University levels as and when required; and
• Any other duties assigned by the Head of Department or the Dean of the School.

Requirements:

• For a Lecturer, candidates must have an undergraduate degree in Biology and Chemistry, and must have a Master’s degree (or preferably a PhD) in Biology/Chemistry or a closely related field from a recognized University with at least 3 years of teaching experience.
• Knowledge and competence to deliver foundation and undergraduate level courses in Biology and Chemistry.
• Evidence of excellence in teaching and research with significant scholarly responsibilities.
• Ability to work effectively as part of a multi-disciplinary teaching and research team.
• The incumbent needs to know health and safety requirements, particularly in laboratory and field settings.
• A record of demonstrated scholarly and professional achievement in the relevant disciplines is essential, with a demonstrated ability to teach undergraduate programmes through in-person, online, and HyFlex or hybrid modes.
• Possess an understanding of the University of Fiji’s vision, mission, and goals as expressed in the Strategic Plan 2022–2026.
• Possess a deep appreciation of the multiplex diversity of the University of Fiji’s staff and students, including in gender, culture, and expression.
• Possess a keen understanding of the human values foundation of the University.
• Demonstrated strong interpersonal, communication, and teamwork skills, with the ability to work effectively with colleagues, students, and external partners.

The University requires all staff to proactively undertake community, environment and social responsibilities as well as participate in University Committees in accordance with the themes established by the Strategic Plan 2022-2026.

Salary Band: $54,148.33 – $75,033.48

The University offers a three-year full-time contract with renewals subject to performance reviews.

How to Apply:

Applicants must provide:

1. A covering letter explaining their interest in the position
2. A copy of their full Curriculum Vitae with names and addresses of three (3) Professional Referees, one of whom must be the current or immediate past supervisor of the applicant,
3. And certified copies of their academic qualifications and transcripts. Completed applications, quoting the Post Reference Number and marked “Confidential” must be posted to:

The HR Department, The University of Fiji, Private Mail Bag, Lautoka, Fiji with The Post Reference Number and the Position Title as the subject. For further enquiries please contact the HR Department on hr@unifiji.ac.fj or via phone contact 6640600/ 9999100. A copy of the advert is also available on the University website- www.unifiji.ac.fj

Registered with the Fiji Higher Education Commission as a University under the Higher Education Act 2008. Registration Certificate Number (RGN0020/11)

Closing date for all applications: 7th May, 2026

The University is an equal opportunity employer and actively promotes diversity in appointments. People living with disabilities are encouraged to apply.