LECTURER IN PHYSICS – University of Namibia

Applicants usually need a PhD in Physics or a closely related field, with preference given to candidates who have completed doctoral studies from accredited institutions recognized by the Namibian Qualifications Authority (NQA). A Master’s degree may be considered for entry-level lecturer roles only if accompanied by substantial teaching experience and evidence of ongoing doctoral study, but this is increasingly rare under current UNAM academic staffing policies.

Daily responsibilities include delivering lectures and tutorials to undergraduate and postgraduate students, marking assignments and examinations, supervising student projects, and contributing to curriculum development aligned with the Namibian National Qualifications Framework (NNQF). Lecturers also engage in research, apply for local grants (e.g., through the Namibia Scientific Society or NRF), and participate in departmental and faculty meetings held on UNAM campuses across Windhoek, Oshakati, or Henties Bay.

Namibian academia values collegiality, respect for seniority, and responsiveness to institutional priorities such as national development goals outlined in Vision 2030 and the Harambee Prosperity Plan. Punctuality, formal communication in professional settings, and active participation in community outreach—especially science education initiatives in underserved regions—are widely expected and factored into performance reviews.

Lecturers can progress to Senior Lecturer, Associate Professor, and Professor based on sustained teaching excellence, peer-reviewed research output, successful postgraduate supervision, and service contributions verified through UNAM’s Academic Promotion Committee. Advancement requires alignment with the NQA’s academic staff qualification framework and is contingent on internal vacancies, national budget allocations, and demonstrated impact within Namibia’s higher education context.

UNAM staff are covered under the Government Employees Pension Fund (GEPF) and entitled to 30 working days’ annual leave, 10 days’ sick leave per year, and maternity/paternity leave as stipulated in the Namibian Labour Act. Medical aid is not provided directly by UNAM but staff may join approved private schemes (e.g., MTC Health or NamHealth) with payroll deductions, and access subsidized campus health services at the UNAM Health Centre in Windhoek.