Lecturer in AI and Cyber Security at UJ (nGAP Programme)
University of Johannesburg · Johannesburg, Gauteng
Overview
Join the University of Johannesburg as a Lecturer under the nGAP programme, a DHET funded initiative for young academics under 40. You will teach AI and Cyber Security while earning your PhD. This is a rare chance to build an academic career with strong support and make a real impact in South African computing education.
About the role
The University of Johannesburg is looking for a passionate early career academic to join the Academy of Computer Science and Software Engineering as a Lecturer under the New Generation of Academics Programme (nGAP). This is a prestigious DHET funded programme designed to develop the next generation of academics in South Africa. Priority will be given to designated candidates and applicants must be 40 years or younger.
You will be part of a vibrant academy that offers accredited qualifications in Computer Science, Informatics, Artificial Intelligence, and Cyber Security. The academy houses the Centre for Cyber Security and the Salient Pattern AI Research Center (SPARC), giving you access to a rich research environment.
Your role will involve teaching undergraduate and Honours students in AI, Machine Learning, Cyber Security, and core Computer Science modules. You will also prepare and run practical lab sessions, assess student work, and develop course materials that keep pace with industry trends and BCS accreditation requirements.
Beyond teaching, you will be expected to build a research profile by publishing in accredited journals and presenting at conferences. You will also supervise Honours students and co supervise Master's students where appropriate. The position requires you to register for a PhD or postdoctoral studies if you do not already hold a PhD.
You will actively participate in departmental activities such as moderation, meetings, accreditation preparation, and events like Projects Day. There is also an expectation to contribute to community engagement and support the university's Global Excellence and Stature objectives.
Important application note: The University is legally required to assess all prospective employees against the National Register for Sex Offenders (NRSO) in terms of the Criminal Law (Sexual Offences and Related Matters) Amendment Act 2021. The outcome of this assessment may affect possible employment. No specific application documents or email instructions are provided, so please follow the university's standard online application process.
Requirements
- A Master's degree in Computer Science, Information Technology, Artificial Intelligence, Cyber Security, or a closely related field with a 70% average pass mark.
- Demonstrated foundational knowledge in Artificial Intelligence and/or Cyber Security.
- Evidence of teaching experience at the tertiary level (lecturing, tutoring, lab demonstrating, or equivalent).
- Evidence of research potential, such as peer reviewed publications, conference papers, or postgraduate research outputs.
- Strong commitment to good teaching and research.
- Sound written and verbal communication skills in English.
- Must be 40 years or younger.
- Must be willing to register for a PhD or postdoctoral studies if not already holding a PhD.
Responsibilities
- Obtain a PhD in the required field, if not already held.
- Prepare and deliver lectures in Artificial Intelligence, Machine Learning, Cyber Security, and/or core Computer Science modules at undergraduate and Honours levels.
- Prepare and conduct practical sessions and laboratory based teaching activities.
- Prepare, assess, and moderate assignments, tests, examinations, and project evaluations.
- Assist in developing and updating course materials in line with industry trends and BCS accreditation requirements.
- Demonstrate a strong commitment to excellence in teaching and innovative pedagogy, including the use of online and blended learning tools.
- Be actively involved in departmental activities, including teaching, research support, academic administration, student consultation, and community engagement initiatives.
- Develop a sustained research profile, including publishing peer reviewed papers in accredited journals and presenting at national and international conferences.
- Actively conduct research aligned with AI, Cyber Security, or closely related fields.
- Supervise Honours and co supervise Master's students, where appropriate.
- Contribute to the supervision and assessment of senior undergraduate and Honours projects in line with British Computer Society (BCS) standards.
- Participate in departmental academic and administrative activities, including moderation, meetings, accreditation preparation, and events such as Projects Day.
- Support the University's Global Excellence and Stature (GES) objectives through teaching innovation, research development, and community engagement.
Job details
- Organisation
- University of Johannesburg
- Location
- Johannesburg, Gauteng
- Job type
- Full time
- Experience level
- Entry
- Education
- Master
- Category
- Education & Training
- Application Method
- Apply manually
Success Guide
This is a fantastic opportunity if you are an early career academic in computer science with a passion for AI or cyber security. The nGAP programme is designed for young South Africans under 40, so if you fit that description and are not already a professor, definitely consider applying. Make sure your CV highlights any teaching or tutoring experience, even if it was informal, and your research potential. If you have publications or conference papers, mention them prominently. The university will check your background through the National Register for Sex Offenders, so be prepared for that as part of the process. To stand out, tailor your application to show how you can contribute to teaching AI and cyber security at UJ, and express your enthusiasm for developing a long term academic career. Good luck!
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