Master’s Scholarship (2022-2023) – Afromontane Research Unit
EU Horizon 2020 BiodivERsA project ‘RangeX’
A collaboration with the Mountain Invasion Research Network (MIREN)
The Afromontane Research Unit (ARU), University of the Free State (UFS), is a strategic research hub at the UFS, and an international player in mountain research. The ARU – as part of the Mountain Invasion Research Network (MIREN) – has successfully secured an EU Horizon 2020 BiodivERsA project: Mechanisms underlying the success and impact on biodiversity and ecosystem functioning of range-expanding species under climate change (RangeX).
The ARU invites applications from suitable candidates for a two-year master’s programme (2022-2023) that will assist with the ARU contribution to this project. Species that expand their range with climate warming could pose a threat to native biodiversity. The candidate will lead an experiment to test the effectiveness of novel range-expanding plant removal as a management option along an elevational gradient in the Maloti-Drakensberg (M-D) Mountains. This will include monitoring and managing these remote experimental sites along an elevation gradient in the Maloti-Drakensberg Mountains; widespread interaction with local managers and policy makers on mountainous range-expanding species (native and non-native); and participating in associated workshops and events. The candidate will also be linked to the rest of the consortium, with opportunities to travel and to interact with visiting consortium members. In addition to the above, the candidate will also have the opportunity to be exposed to – and contribute to – the wide range of mountain-related activities driven by the ARU as a continental leader in African mountain research.
Scholarship details
- Two years, commencing first quarter 2022.
- The fellowship is valued at R90 000 per annum.
- Running costs of the project will be covered by the project budget.
Eligibility criteria:
- Applications from South African (preferred) and international candidates are welcome.
- Honours degree in Natural Science (Geography, Botany, Environmental Science).
a. Physically fit (the project requires the use of machinery such as chain saws, and extensive time on foot).
b. Driver’s licence.
c. Valid passport.
Application requirements
- Full transcript of academic record.
- Copy of degree certificates.
- Copy of South African identity document, or passport (international candidates).
- Recommendations from two academic references.
A scholarship is currently available for this position and will be awarded on a competitive basis.
Applications should be submitted electronically to Dr Ona Gwate at onalennag37@gmail.com by 31 July 2021.
Contact person
Dr Ona Gwate: RangeX Postdoc (ARU)
University of the Free State: Qwaqwa Campus
Private Bag X13, Phuthaditjhaba, 9866, South Africa
E: onalennag37@gmail.com