Postdoctoral Fellowship in Physics Education
Topic: AI in the Stellenbosch University Science Faculty
The Faculty of Science at Stellenbosch University invites applications for a two-year Postdoctoral Fellowship linked to a research project investigating the impact of artificial intelligence (AI) on teaching and learning in the sciences, particularly in physics.
Research Focus
The project explores how AI is reshaping teaching and learning in the Stellenbosch University Science Faculty, with three core aims:
• to analyse academics’ attitudes, practices, and reservations regarding AI use in teaching;
• to investigate how students currently use AI tools—formally and informally—and how this shapes their conceptual understanding and learning behaviours;
• to evaluate the pedagogical impact of structured AI integration through a controlled teaching intervention in physics education, comparing traditional instruction with guided AI-supported learning activities.
The study employs a mixed-methods approach, including faculty-wide surveys, interviews with academics and students, longitudinal tracking of student AI use, and a controlled first year physics teaching experiment assessing conceptual and problem-solving outcomes.
The research team includes three members of the Physics Department’s teaching staff, with whom the postdoctoral fellow will work closely.
Eligibility
• Applicants must have obtained their PhD no more than four (4) years prior to their application.
• Preference will be given to candidates who:
- demonstrate a strong publication record during their PhD and/or previous postdoctoral work.
- have studied physics at a Bachelor’s level as well as postgraduate studies in education.
- have had no association with Stellenbosch University for at least three (3) years prior to application
Funding
• Stipend: R300 000 per year (paid directly to the Fellow). Fellowships are awarded tax free, and do not include benefits
• Running Costs: R100 000 once-off, or R50 000 per year over two years.
• Duration: Two years (2026–2027).
• Continuation to Year 2 is contingent on the acceptance of at least one peer-reviewed DHET-accredited publication in 2026.
Application Deadline: 26 January 2025. (Decision will be made by the end of January. The fellowship must commence by 1 March 2026.)
Application procedure: Applicants may apply by email to Dr Philip Southey (southey@sun.ac.za) before the deadline. Submit a cover letter summarising your background and interests and how your skills match those required for the project. Include a detailed CV and academic and publication record, and the names of two contactable references.
