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University of the Witwatersrand

Ranked
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Sustainability Impact Rated
Johannesburg, South Africa
301–350th in World University Rankings 2026
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About the University of the Witwatersrand

Basic information and contact details for the University of the Witwatersrand

institution

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.

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Key Student Statistics

A breakdown of student statistics at the University of the Witwatersrand

gender ratio
Student gender ratio
60 F : 40 M (1)
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International student percentage
6% (1)
student per staff
Students per staff
22.4 (1)
student
Student total
26928 (1)

Based on data collected for the (1) World University Rankings 2026

Jobs you might be interested in

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Doctoral Position at Department of Electronics and Nanoengineering

AALTO UNIVERSITY

Aalto University

Finland

institution

Aalto University

Finland


Doctoral position at Department of Electronics and Nanoengineering at Aalto University, in Espoo, Finland. DC12: Design, fabrication, and characterization of reconfigurable and time-varying optical metasurfaces Main supervisor: Prof. Viktar Asadchy[AALTO] Co-supervisors/mentors:  Prof. Rockstuhl [KIT] and Prof. Díaz-Rubio [UPV] Objectives To design optical metasurfaces capable of complex reconfigurable functionalities while restricting control to a single, or otherwise limited, discrete set of tuning parameters, enabling practical global actuation and robust device operation. To design optical metasurfaces and material platforms exhibiting time-varying responses. Using adjoint-based optimization and spatial structuring, to realize complex time-modulated medium dynamics with realistic material constraints and experimentally feasible excitation and driving schemes. To fabricate and experimentally characterize the designed prototypes, and to validate their reconfigurable and time-varying performance through quantitative comparison with analytical modeling and full-wave simulation results. This position is part of the MetaTune Doctoral Network "Reconfigurability using inversely designed metasurfaces", which has been funded under the Horizon Europe Marie Skłodowska-Curie Actions (MSCA) program. Acquire knowledge During the thesis, the candidate will acquire a solid understanding of the theoretical and practical requirements for designing optical metasurfaces with complex reconfigurable and time-varying responses, with particular emphasis on achieving rich functionality under a single or otherwise limited set of discrete tuning parameters. In parallel, the candidate will gain in-depth knowledge of time-modulated photonic media, nonlinear optics, adjoint-based optimization strategies for high-dimensional inverse design, and realistic material and excitation constraints at optical frequencies. The candidate will also develop practical expertise in prototype fabrication, experimental characterization, and quantitative validation of measured performance against analytical models and full-wave simulations. Go to the project webpage for more information What METATUNE Offers Work contract at Aalto is for 36 months funded through the MSCA network, with the additional benefits for employees (public and universal health system, free schools, etc.). Three research stays, one 4-month at Karlsruher Institut fuer Technologie, one 3-month at Photonicsens SL in Valencia, Spain, and one 3-month at Polytechnic University of Valencia are foreseen in the research plan. Opportunity to pursue a PhD degree at a leading European university within a collaborative, international network. Training program including research-specific and transferable skills courses. Active participation in workshops, conferences, and network-wide events to build professional and scientific connections. Stimulating, multidisciplinary, and international research environment within a prestigious European training network. Starting date: Now-December 2026; negotiable. Deadline for online application: May 31, 2026 (but candidates are encouraged to apply as soon as possible). Requirements Mandatory Requirements You must have a finalised master’s degree in fields related to the research topic: Electrical Engineering, Physics, Telecommunications Engineering, Applied Physics, Optics, Material Engineering, or similar. You should not have a doctoral degree at the time of recruitment.  You must not have resided or carried out your main activity (work, studies, etc.) in Finland for more than 12 months in the 36 months immediately before the recruitment (this is a requirement from the funding authority). You will apply for the study right in doctoral studies at Aalto University School of Electrical Engineering and must satisfy the eligibility conditions for this doctoral programme. Sufficient skills in the English language. Additional Requirements Strong background in electrodynamics and excellent mathematical skills. Basic knowledge of computational electromagnetics. High proficiency in Python, MATLAB, Wolfram Mathematica, or similar programming software. High motivation and creativity. Good written and verbal communication, including presentation skills. Good organizational skills, attention to details, and ability to meet deadlines. Willingness to learn and work collaboratively in a research environment. Desired skills and knowledge Proficiency in electromagnetic simulation software, such as COMSOL Multiphysics, ANSYS HFSS, or CST Studio Suite. Previous experience with the topic of time-varying materials or systems. Solid knowledge of computational electromagnetics. Previous experience in nanofabrication or design of metasurfaces. Apply now via this link, at the latest by May 31st, 2026: https://metatune.webs.upv.es/jobs/

Salary

Competitive

Posted

6 Mar 2026

Teaching Fellow in Psychology

UNIVERSITY OF WAIKATO

University of Waikato, Hamilton

New Zealand, Tauranga

institution

University of Waikato, Hamilton

New Zealand, Tauranga


We are seeking a dedicated and engaging Teaching Fellow in Psychology to join our vibrant Tauranga-based team. This is a permanent, teaching-focused position centred on delivering high-quality undergraduate education across lectures, laboratories and workshops. You will contribute to paper coordination, assessment and marking, support and supervise sessional assistants, and assist in the ongoing development and enhancement of teaching materials. This role is ideal for someone passionate about student learning and committed to using contemporary teaching and assessment approaches. Teaching Fellows are not required to undertake research or supervise postgraduate students, allowing you to focus on delivering an outstanding learning experience and supporting the academic success of our diverse student community. Salary information $79,211 - $114,226 per year pro-rata, based on the skills, knowledge and experience you bring to the position. This is a full-time role (37.5 hours per week), based at our Tauranga campus. For more information about the role, please see the position description. All applications must be submitted through the online portal - emailed applications will not be accepted. Ko wai koe? - Who are you? You will hold a postgraduate qualification in Psychology (a PhD is preferred) and bring broad disciplinary knowledge across several areas of psychology, ideally including social psychology, cognition, cognitive neuroscience, indigenous psychology, personality and individual differences, research methods, perception, developmental psychology and clinical psychology. You will have demonstrated success in tertiary teaching, strong assessment and marking skills, and the organisational ability to manage paper administration effectively. You are proactive, collaborative and professional, with the ability to relate sensitively to students and colleagues from diverse backgrounds. A commitment to equal opportunity and to the University's partnership with Māori under Te Tiriti o Waitangi is essential. Ko wai mātou? - Who are we? Te Kura Whatu Oho Mauri - School of Psychological and Social Sciences is a dynamic School with strengths across behaviour, cognition, neuroscience, social psychology, personality and indigenous psychology. We are committed to excellence in teaching, fostering a supportive learning environment, and promoting bicultural practice in line with Te Tiriti o Waitangi. He aha ngā take me tono mai ai koe? - Why should you apply for this position? We want you to be part of our success. Our University stands proudly on the world stage as a provider of future-focused, international education and an active contributor to global research. Our rankings reflect these strengths. Working with us means you will enjoy a satisfying work environment with many benefits. The University of Waikato is distinctive for the diversity of its staff and students and encourages applicants with the relevant capabilities from all backgrounds to apply. Applicants must have the legal right to live and work in NZ in accordance with NZ immigration regulations, which can be found here. Ko te Tangata - For the People The University of Waikato prides itself on the quality of its engagement with the communities it serves, the provision of a world-class education, and the national and international impact of its research. Our policies are guided by the principles of the Treaty of Waitangi and equal opportunity for all. E herea ana te Whare Wānanga ki te kaupapa kia whakaratohia te mea angitū ōrite ki ngā tāngata katoa. Applications close on Friday, 17 April 2026 Requisition number: 1003447

Salary

$79,211 to $114,226 per year

Posted

6 Mar 2026

Lecturer / Senior Lecturer in Physiotherapy (Musculoskeletal)

CHARLES STURT UNIVERSITY

Charles Sturt University

Australia, Orange

institution

Charles Sturt University

Australia, Orange


Relocation support to help you settle into the stunning Orange region Access salary packaging and staff discounts with partnering corporates Join a dynamic and innovative physiotherapy team The role Continuing, full time (part time hours considered) Academic Level B/C - $113,841 to $160,308 pa (plus 17% superannuation) Location: Orange, NSW We are seeking an experienced physiotherapy professional to join the School of Allied Health, Exercise and Sports Sciences to actively deliver high quality teaching, contribute to curriculum development and foster student engagement using blended subject delivery modes. The successful candidate must have significant experience in contemporary musculoskeletal physiotherapy practice in an Australian context. The successful candidate must also have the capacity to teach across other areas of physiotherapy practice and a commitment to regional, rural and remote health and practice. About you A physiotherapy qualification A physiotherapy qualification appropriate to the level being applied for or equivalent accreditation and standing. Current practising registration as a Physiotherapist with the Australian Health Practitioner Regulation Agency (Ahpra). Additional qualification appropriate to the level being applied for or equivalent accreditation and standing. Significant experience in contemporary musculoskeletal physiotherapy practice in an Australian context. Sound knowledge of the discipline, including digital health and culturally safe health care, and experience in physiotherapy practice and research in rural and regional contexts. Commitment to delivering high-quality student-centred learning and teaching. About us We are a university of the land and people of our regions. True to the character of regional Australia we have gumption, we have soul and we collaborate with others. We develop holistic, far-sighted people who help their communities grow and flourish. The Wiradjuri phrase yindyamarra winhanganha means the wisdom of respectfully knowing how to live well in a world worth living in. This phrase represents who we are at Charles Sturt University - our ethos. It comes from traditional Indigenous Australian knowledge, but it also speaks to the mission of universities - to develop and spread wisdom to make the world a better place. Harnessing technology, we thrive as a distributed yet connected community, welcoming and engaging with people across Australia and the world. Learn more about the Faculty of Science and Health here. Learn more about the School of Allied Health, Exercise and Sports Sciences here. Visit our website to learn about our great range of employee benefits. Charles Sturt University is committed to building a diverse workforce as shown through our Athena Swan Bronze Award, our Australian Workplace Equality Index Bronze Award and our membership of a range of diversity focused organisations including Diversity Council Australia and Pride in Diversity. We encourage applications from First Nations people, carers, people from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds, people with disability, neurodivergent people, and people of all age groups, genders and sexualities for all roles. To apply Click the Apply button and complete your application online, and address the selection criteria in the position description and upload your CV. If you experience difficulties applying online or for further information on completing the application process please visit our how to apply page or contact us. This position is open to Australian Citizens and Permanent Residents; or applicants who hold a current valid work visa commensurate with this position. Further information Additional information is available in the position description(s) Level B - Lecturer Level C - Senior Lecturer or by contacting: Dr Cherie Zischke | Course Director and Lecturer in Physiotherapy | czischke@csu.edu.au | Ph: 02 6582 9465 Closing Date: 11pm, 6 April 2026

Salary

$113,841 to $160,308 pa (plus 17% superannuation)

Posted

5 Mar 2026

MOE START Scheme (Early Career Awards) - Food, Chemical and Biotechnology

SINGAPORE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (SIT)

Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)

Singapore

institution

Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)

Singapore


At the heart of SIT’s mission is to nurture industry-ready graduates equipped with deep technical expertise and transferable skills to tackle tomorrow’s challenges. SIT collaborates with industry in our education, while benefitting them with our talent supply and collaborative research achievements. The University’s unique applied learning pedagogy integrates work and study, embedding authentic learning experiences within real-world environments. Through strategic partnerships forged by our faculty with industry, learners bridge theoretical knowledge with practical application in and out of the classroom. Such active & authentic learning opportunities ensures graduates step into their careers with applicable skills and competence.  In research, SIT faculty aims to bridge knowledge creation and utilisation. Our faculty collaborates closely with industry on translational research and innovation with focus on addressing pertinent industry challenges to impact businesses.  The Singapore Teaching and Academic Research Talent (START) Scheme is co-funded by the Ministry of Education (MOE) and SIT to encourage and support outstanding young Singaporeans interested in pursuing an academic career at SIT. The Early Career Awards (ECA) are designed to support Singaporeans who have recently completed their postdoctoral training and prepare them for an academic career at SIT. This award aims to enhance the teaching capabilities of the recipient and help build a strong research portfolio. Eligibility and Selection Criteria Singapore Citizen   Recently completed postdoctoral training   Excellent academic record plus a high degree of proficiency and motivation for a research area that is strongly aligned with SIT’s supported areas  Strong passion for teaching, research and an academic career Benefits Awardees may receive research grants to help build a competitive research portfolio. Upon completion of the award, awardees will be considered for Assistant Professorship. Awardees will also be assigned a faculty mentor for the duration of the scheme. Application Process Applications are open throughout the year. Applications received before 15 January 2026 will be considered for intake 2026.  Interview by the respective clusters for shortlisted applicants will be conducted throughout the year.  Final Interview by Panel for shortlisted applicants will take place from March to April 2026. Awards for intake 2026 will be finalised by July 2026. Supported Areas for START Food, Chemical and Biotechnology Sustainable and Functional food: Sustainable food systems & circular food economy - alternative proteins, upcycled ingredients); AI & automation in food manufacturing - smart sensors, digital twins, and AI-driven food quality control and processing; Food safety - supply chain tracking/monitoring, blockchain Biotechnology: Host strain screening and engineering for microbial bioprocess development; microbial physiology and adaptation for industrial applications; high-throughput screening and automation for strain optimization; bioprospecting for novel microbial hosts, enzymes, and metabolites to support sustainable biomanufacturing. (Bio)pharmaceuticals: Processing science and technology for bio- and chemical transformations, separations, purifications and formulation applied to pharmaceuticals manufacture; modelling of processing steps and whole processes to support innovation, design, optimisation and control for manufacturing operations. Process control: process modelling, control, and optimization, with applications in chemical and pharmaceutical manufacturing; data-driven modelling and machine learning applications in process industries; advanced process control (APC); model predictive control (MPC); digital twins and real-time process monitoring and control; process analytical technology (PAT); process intensification and sustainability.

Salary

Competitive

Posted

5 Mar 2026

Robotics Engineer (Embodied AI Applications) - LYB3

SINGAPORE INSTITUTE OF TECHNOLOGY (SIT)

Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)

Singapore

institution

Singapore Institute of Technology (SIT)

Singapore


Role Overview As a University of Applied Learning, SIT works closely with industry in our research pursuits. Our research staff will have the opportunity to be equipped with applied research skill sets that are relevant to industry demands while working on research projects in SIT. The SIT Centre for Intelligent Robotics is a strategic capability centre under RoboPrecinct@Punggol Digital District (PDD), responsible for developing and maintaining the core applied robotics and embodied AI capabilities required for precinct-level deployment of robotic systems. The centre is seeking a Robotics Engineer. This role is application-driven and system-oriented, focusing on the implementation, adaptation, and evaluation of state-of-the-art robotics algorithms on real robotic platforms. The successful candidate will work closely with physical robots and simulation environments to translate recent advances in learning-based robotics into robust, deployable systems. Key Responsibilities Implement, adapt, and evaluate state-of-the-art learning-based methods for robotic perception, decision-making, navigation, and manipulation. Apply reinforcement learning, imitation learning, and other skill learning frameworks to practical robotic applications. Integrate learning-based robot skills with full robot software stacks in ROS / ROS 2 environments. Develop and maintain perception and state representation pipelines using RGB-D and 3D sensing. Conduct simulation-to-real (Sim2Real) workflows, including data collection, model training, deployment, and testing on physical robots. Support system-level experimentation, benchmarking, and iterative improvement of embodied AI applications. Provide mentorship to undergraduate students in projects. Carry out risk assessment, and ensure compliance with Work, Safety and Health Regulations. Prepare technical documentation, reports, and implementation guides to support knowledge transfer and long-term maintainability. Contribute to publications and technical notes to disseminate research outcomes. The employee is to communicate with any internal or external stakeholders to ensure project deliverables are met. Any other adhoc duties assigned by supervisor. Requirements Bachelor’s degree or higher in Robotics, Computer Science, Mechanical Engineering, Control Engineering, or a related field. Hands-on experience with deep learning frameworks such as PyTorch or TensorFlow. Working knowledge of reinforcement learning, imitation learning, or learning-based control concepts. Familiarity with robotics simulation tools such as Gazebo, Isaac Lab, or MuJoCo. Practical experience with ROS or ROS 2 for real-robot software integration. Proficiency in Python and C++, with experience developing and maintaining production-level code. At least 2 years of experience in robotics research or industry projects. Preferred Skillsets (Advantageous) Experience working with mobile manipulators, humanoid robots, or quadruped robots. Exposure to motion planning, control frameworks, or whole-body control systems. Experience with real-world robot experimentation and deployment. Experience with embodied AI and robot manipulation benchmarking platforms such as LIBERO, ManiSkill, or RLBench is highly desirable. Knowledge of GPU architectures, GPU cloud computing services, and strong familiarity with Linux operating systems. Knowledge of BIM, universal scene description and scene composition Knowledge of physics and simulation parameters, as well as sensor simulation pipeline.

Salary

Competitive

Posted

5 Mar 2026

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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