University of the Witwatersrand
About the University of the Witwatersrand
Basic information and contact details for the University of the Witwatersrand
Commonly known as “Wits”, the University of the Witwatersrand developed out of the South African School of Mines, set up in Kimberley in 1896. The institution moved to Johannesburg in 1904 and acquired full university status in 1922. From the start, it embraced a philosophy of non-discrimination on the basis of race, which led to intense conflict with the government - including police raids and the detention of both faculty and students - during the apartheid era.
Though located largely in the district of Braamfontein in central Johannesburg, a major expansion programme in the 1960s and 1970s saw the university establishing facilities in other areas of the city such as Hillbrow and Parktown. It also acquired two farms about 40 kilometres to the north-west, Sterkfontein and Swartkrans, which incorporate a celebrated set of limestone caves and have proved a rich source of archaeological remains.
Its location in Johannesburg means that Wits is close to the economic powerhouse of the whole African continent. It was one of the founders of the African Research Universities Alliance and has an active programme of collaborative projects right across Africa and beyond. Highly research-intensive, it has made a major contribution to applied areas such as healthcare and the challenges of deep-level mining but performs strongly in subatomic physics and other fields of fundamental science.
The most famous alumnus of the university is Nelson Mandela, who studied law there and went on to become President of South Africa and the 1993 Nobel laureate for peace. The novelist Nadine Gordimer (Nobel Prize for Literature, 1991) also attended for a year, while Aaron Klug (Nobel Prize for Chemistry, 1982) and Sydney Brenner (Nobel Prize for Medicine, 2002) both took their first degrees at Wits.
Faculties
Rankings
Select the type of rankings below to see stats
Impact Rankings
Select the type of ranking below to see stats
Discover similar universities
Find out more about studying, research and jobs at these universities
suggested
Key Student Statistics
A breakdown of student statistics at the University of the Witwatersrand
- Student gender ratio
- 60 F : 40 M (1)
- International student percentage
- 6% (1)
- Students per staff
- 22.4 (1)
- Student total
- 26928 (1)
Based on data collected for the (1) World University Rankings 2026
Jobs you might be interested in
You may want to explore jobs from other universities which are relevant to you
See all
Assistant Management Accountant
King's College London
United Kingdom, London
King's College London
United Kingdom, London
About us: King’s College London is one of the world’s leading universities, committed to delivering excellence in education, research, and service. Our Finance, Procurement and Analytics (FPA) Directorate plays a vital role in supporting these ambitions by providing strong financial leadership, planning, and advice. You’ll join the Finance Business Partnering (Operations) team, a collaborative and high-performing group dedicated to ensuring finance is at the heart of strategic decision-making across King’s. Why Join Us? This is an exciting opportunity to make a real impact in a world-class institution. You’ll work in a supportive team that values curiosity, continuous improvement, and professional development. About the role: We are seeking a proactive and detail-oriented Assistant Management Accountant to provide high-quality financial analysis and reporting that supports operational decision-making. Working closely with Finance Business Partners and stakeholders, you’ll help shape the financial future of King’s by delivering insights that drive performance and efficiency. Hybrid working model: Monday is our anchor day at the Lavington Street office, with 1–2 days per week spent in stakeholder offices to build strong relationships. The remaining time can be worked flexibly, subject to business needs. Adaptability is essential as work patterns may evolve. Key responsibilities include: Supporting budget holders to understand management accounts In-year forecasting of income and expenditure Producing accurate monthly reports and analysis Maintaining staffing establishment records Assisting with budgeting, coding changes, and process improvements About you: We’re looking for someone who combines technical expertise with strong interpersonal skills: Essential Criteria: Part-qualified with a professional accountancy body Advanced Excel skills (including pivot tables) and ability to manipulate large datasets Strong analytical ability to produce meaningful financial insights Experience with accounting systems for processing and reporting Excellent communication skills to explain financial concepts to non-financial stakeholders Methodical, detail-oriented, and confident working under pressure Collaborative, proactive, and adaptable to change Desirable Criteria: Degree-level education or equivalent Experience in Higher Education Downloading a copy of our Job Description Full details of the role and the skills, knowledge and experience required can be found in the Job Description document, provided at the bottom of the next page after you click “Apply Now”. Please note: shortlisted candidates will be asked to complete an online Excel test before the interview stage. We pride ourselves on being inclusive and welcoming. We embrace diversity and want everyone to feel that they belong and are connected to others in our community. We are committed to working with our staff and unions on these and other issues, to continue to support our people and to develop a diverse and inclusive culture at King's. We ask all candidates to submit a copy of their CV, and a supporting statement, detailing how they meet the essential criteria listed in the advert. If we receive a strong field of candidates, we may use the desirable criteria to choose our final shortlist, so please include your evidence against these where possible. To find out how our managers will review your application, please take a look at our ‘How we Recruit’ pages. Grade and Salary: £39,076 - £41,761 (inclusive of London Weighting) Job ID: 134646 Close Date: 18-Jan-2026 Contact Person: Ese Egbewo Contact Details: ese.egbewo@kcl.ac.uk
Salary
£39,076 - £41,761 (inclusive of London Weighting)
Posted
13 Jan 2026
Laboratory Engineer Specializing in Safety Management
Hainan Bielefeld University Of Applied Sciences (Biuh)
China
Hainan Bielefeld University Of Applied Sciences (Biuh)
China
About Us The Hainan Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences (BiUH) is the first international independent university in the Hainan Free Trade Port. Our approach combines theory and practice following the renowned "Work-Integrated University-Industry Collaborative Talent Training Model." We offer cutting-edge programs in high-demand fields: Digital Technologies, Computer Science, Logistics Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechatronics and Automation, Software Engineering and Business Administration. Our students benefit from small classes, English-language instruction with accompanying German courses, and intensive learning experiences. The focus is on mastering real-world professional challenges, enabling students to apply their knowledge immediately and preparing them optimally for the global job market. We combine international teaching standards with the unique opportunities that Hainan offers. BiUH is located in the Yangpu Economic Zone in Danzhou, a historic coastal city with direct high-speed rail connections to Haikou and Sanya. We invite passionate educators and researchers at all career stages, from early-career lecturers to established professors, to join our team. Both full-time and part-time positions are available for those committed to application-oriented education. Job Responsibilities Oversee safety operations across Autonomous Driving and Robotics Laboratory Develop and implement comprehensive laboratory safety inspection plans, promptly identify and eliminate safety hazards Ensure safe shutdown of all high-voltage, high-power, and critical equipment after faculty and students leave Manage and supervise electrical equipment safety in specialized laboratories including autonomous driving, robotics, UWB, and other advanced research facilities Assist in establishing and improving laboratory safety management systems and emergency response procedures Regularly organize and conduct laboratory safety education and training programs Record and report safety management activities, assist in handling safety incidents Job Qualifications Bachelor's degree or above, preferably in Electrical Engineering, Mechatronics, Automation, Laboratory Management, Safety Engineering, or related fields Regulatory Familiarity with laboratory safety management regulations and standards Experience in electrical equipment safety operations and maintenance; relevant professional certifications (such as electrician license) preferred Hands-on Skills: Experience in electronic circuit soldering preferred Professional Previous experience in laboratory safety management or equipment maintenance preferred Serious and responsible work attitude, strong principles, emergency response capabilities Coordination abilities, and service-oriented mindset English is required (B2 or above); German is desirable Expected Onboarding Time Spring Semester 2026 (March 2026) Salary and Benefits Competitive Salary in the Market (13th Month Salary) Allowance: Travel Allowance / Phone Allowance / High Temperature Allowance, Etc. 5 Types of Social Insurance and 1 Housing Provident Fund Commercial insurance Transitional Apartments Arrangement Working environment that is open to the world and strongly oriented towards sustainability, diversity and internationality How to apply Please prepare the following documents: Current English CV (including full publication list) Cover Letter (addressed to the Principal) 2 Reference Letters Teaching Qualification Documents, Qualifications (if available) Documents certifying the professor's (if available) Academic Degree Certificates Please import all files into one PDF Please name the PDF as "Position - Your Name" Please send all files to recruitment@hainan-biuh.edu.cn
Salary
Competitive Salary in the Market
Posted
13 Jan 2026
Research Fellow in Metasurfaces
University of Southampton
United Kingdom, Southampton
University of Southampton
United Kingdom, Southampton
We are seeking a highly motivated and talented post-doctoral researcher to join our research programme in metasurfaces. The position is funded by the three-year Leverhulme Trust Research Project Grant “Unwrapping topologically protected light on topologically structured surfaces”. Building on the University of Southampton’s long-established and internationally recognised strength in metasurface research, this project will focus on developing a new class of metasurfaces for manipulating topologically structured light, with the ultimate aim of enabling intelligent optical sensing. A strong background in the design, nanofabrication, and characterisation of silicon metasurfaces is highly desirable, together with an aptitude for developing new experimental techniques related to this exciting research programme. To be successful in this role, you will need to demonstrate: A Ph.D. (or equivalent) in physics or engineering, specialising in photonic devices. Substantial and authoritative practical knowledge and experience in metasurfaces, supported by detailed understanding. Excellent communication and organisational skills, and a proven ability to work effectively within teams The appointment is for a two-year period, with the possibility of extension, and is ideally expected to start in April 2026 or as soon as possible thereafter. Apply by uploading your CV and a cover letter detailing how your skills and experience match the requirements of the role. Informal enquiries are welcome and should be directed to Dr Xu Fang (x.fang@soton.ac.uk).
Salary
£36,636 to £44,746 per annum
Posted
13 Jan 2026
Lecturer / Associate Professor / Professor in Mechanical Engineering and Design
Hainan Bielefeld University Of Applied Sciences (Biuh)
China
Hainan Bielefeld University Of Applied Sciences (Biuh)
China
About Us The Hainan Bielefeld University of Applied Sciences (BiUH) is the first international independent university in the Hainan Free Trade Port. Our approach combines theory and practice following the renowned "Work-Integrated University-Industry Collaborative Talent Training Model." We offer cutting-edge programs in high-demand fields: Digital Technologies, Computer Science, Logistics Engineering, Industrial Engineering, Mechatronics and Automation, Software Engineering and Business Administration. Our students benefit from small classes, English-language instruction with accompanying German courses, and intensive learning experiences. The focus is on mastering real-world professional challenges, enabling students to apply their knowledge immediately and preparing them optimally for the global job market. We combine international teaching standards with the unique opportunities that Hainan offers. BiUH is located in the Yangpu Economic Zone in Danzhou, a historic coastal city with direct high-speed rail connections to Haikou and Sanya. We invite passionate educators and researchers at all career stages, from early-career lecturers to established professors, to join our team. Both full-time and part-time positions are available for those committed to application-oriented education. Job Responsibilities Teach and assess at least 3 courses in the following core subjects: Materials Engineering Basics of Mechanical Design CAD (Computer-Aided Design) Control Engineering Engineering Mechanics Develop course materials and curricula aligned with international standards and industry mechanical design practices Supervise student projects and internships in mechanical design, materials engineering, and product development Engage in applied research and publish in peer-reviewed journals Collaborate with industry partners Job Qualifications Master's degree or above in Mechanical Engineering, Materials Science, Industrial Design, or a closely related field Solid background in mechanical design, materials engineering, CAD, and related engineering mechanics topics Demonstrated excellence or clear potential in university-level teaching, especially at the undergraduate level Evidence of applied research and publications in relevant areas Experience supervising student projects, design work, or internships in mechanical design and product development is highly desirable Practical industry experience in mechanical design, product development, or related engineering fields is an advantage Excellent communication skills and a strong commitment to high-quality teaching in an international environment English is required (B2 or above); German is desirable Expected Onboarding Time Spring Semester 2026 (March 2026) Salary and Benefits Competitive Salary in the Market (13th Month Salary) Allowance: Travel Allowance / Phone Allowance / High Temperature Allowance, Etc. 5 Types of Social Insurance and 1 Housing Provident Fund Commercial insurance Transitional Apartments Arrangement Working environment that is open to the world and strongly oriented towards sustainability, diversity and internationality How to apply Please prepare the following documents: Current English CV (including full publication list) Cover Letter (addressed to the Principal) 2 Reference Letters Teaching Qualification Documents, Qualifications (if available) Documents certifying the professor's (if available) Academic Degree Certificates Please import all files into one PDF Please name the PDF as "Position - Your Name" Please send all files to recruitment@hainan-biuh.edu.cn
Salary
Competitive Salary in the Market
Posted
13 Jan 2026
Dean, School of Humanities and Social Sciences
The American University in Cairo
Egypt, New Cairo
The American University in Cairo
Egypt, New Cairo
The American University in Cairo (AUC) is the leading English-language higher education institution in North Africa and the Middle East. Accredited in the United States and rooted in the center of the intellectual and cultural life of the Arab world, the University has offered exceptional liberal arts and professional education for over a century. Situated on an award-winning 260-acre green campus in New Cairo, Egypt, the five schools and nine centennial labs of AUC are committed to making substantial contributions to Egypt and the global community in a variety of fields by fostering a culture of leadership, lifelong learning and service among its graduates. The School of Humanities and Social Sciences (HUSS) lies at the heart of the learning experience that AUC offers. Through its nine departments—Applied Linguistics and Educational Studies; Arab and Islamic Civilizations; Arts; English and Comparative Literature; History; Philosophy; Political Science; Psychology; and Sociology, Egyptology and Anthropology—HUSS forms the backbone of AUC’s liberal arts tradition. The renowned national and international faculty collectively engage in the interpretive work of making sense of the unseen and the unknown, situating human experience within historical and cultural contexts and critically examining the values and ideas that define humanity in their commitment to original research and excellence in teaching. Job Description: Reporting to the Provost, the Dean is the chief academic and administrative officer of HUSS who sets its vision and strategy. The Dean provides leadership in academic programs, budgeting, internal and external relations, student, faculty and staff matters and strategic planning within the School. The Dean works closely with the President, Provost and other senior University leaders including other School Deans and Department Chairs to advance the values, vision and mission of the human and social sciences in particular and AUC in general. Requirements: AUC is seeking an inspiring Dean who will be a visionary leader for HUSS, spearheading its future development. This Dean will maintain a supportive environment for research productivity and enhance the international reputation of HUSS while fundraising and managing the School’s financial and human resources. This Dean should have a distinguished academic record, the highest ethical standards, excellent decision-making skills and an inclusive leadership style. With a terminal degree in hand, this Dean should be an established scholar who is recognized in their field for their strong publication record and experience in leading an academic unit and/or managing an academic environment. This Dean should also demonstrate a thorough understanding of the latest developments in digital humanities and AI and have experience working in these fields and/or developing strategies across multiple operational levels. Application Instructions: AUC is supported in its global search for this appointment by the executive search firm Perrett Laver. For further information and the candidate brochure with the full appointment details, please visit Perrett Laver’s Vacancies page (https://bit.ly/3LJZSFL) quoting reference 8190. To discuss this role in confidence, please contact Angela Licata at Angela.Licata@perrettlaver.com. To apply for this position based in New Cairo, Egypt, please submit the following documents via AUC’s Interview Exchange website (https://apptrkr.com/6847569): (a) CV; (b) a letter of interest addressing the required qualifications; and (c) a completed AUC Personnel Information Form (PIF). Additional Information: Screening of applications begins on February 8, 2026. Applications will be accepted until a qualified applicant pool is achieved or the position is filled. AUC is an equal opportunity employer. It celebrates diversity and is committed to creating an inclusive environment for all employees. Individuals with disabilities are encouraged to apply. Protecting personal data is of the utmost importance to Perrett Laver who takes this responsibility very seriously. Any information obtained by trading divisions is held and processed in accordance with the relevant data protection legislation. Data provided is securely stored on a computerised database and transferred to clients for the purposes of presenting candidates and/or considering their suitability for a role in which they registered interest. Perrett Laver is a Data Controller and a Data Processor whose legal basis for processing personal data is ‘Legitimate Interests’. Applicants have the right to object to the processing of their data in this way. For more information about applicants’ rights and Perrett Laver’s approach to Data Protection and Privacy, please see this Privacy Statement (https://perrettlaver.com/privacy-policy/).
Salary
Competitive
Posted
13 Jan 2026
Subjects Taught at the University of the Witwatersrand
See below for a range of subjects taught at the University of the Witwatersrand
Arts and Humanities
- Archaeology
- Architecture
- Art, Performing Art and Design
- History, Philosophy and Theology
- Languages, Literature and Linguistics
Business and Economics
- Accounting and Finance
- Business and Management
- Economics and Econometrics
Computer Science
- Computer Science
Education Studies
- Education
Engineering
- Chemical Engineering
- Civil Engineering
- Electrical and Electronic Engineering
- General Engineering
- Mechanical and Aerospace Engineering
Law
- Law
Life Sciences
- Biological Sciences
- Sport Science
Medical and Health
- Medicine and Dentistry
- Other Health
Physical Sciences
- Chemistry
- Geology, Environmental, Earth and Marine Sciences
- Mathematics and Statistics
- Physics and Astronomy
Psychology
- Psychology
Social Sciences
- Communication and Media Studies
- Geography
- Politics and International Studies
- Sociology