My Work
Research Philosophy
I believe that research must both inform and transform. Rooted in pragmatism, I integrate quantitative precision with qualitative depth to explore real-world challenges—particularly those involving precarious work, inequality, and well-being. My collaborative ethos prioritises social justice and aims to develop interventions that are both respectful and effective, ensuring that no voice goes unheard in our pursuit of human flourishing.
Research Themes
My research traces the nuanced interplay between workplace demands, psychological resources, and human potential. I examine how job demands and support structures influence burnout and engagement, especially within South Africa’s complex, multicultural workforce. Drawing on the Job Demands-Resources (JD-R) model, I explore the psychological mechanisms that bolster resilience and engagement under stress. A central focus lies in understanding how environments that foster support, safety, and meaningful work enable employees to thrive—enhancing creativity, well-being, and performance. Ultimately, I aim to define and develop capability sets that strengthen employability, improve mental health, and support sustainable organisational success.
Sebastiaan Rothmann
"My goal is not just to study well-being, but to create the conditions under which well-being becomes possible for all."
I envision a research trajectory that integrates capability development, work psychology, and ethics to create inclusive systems for sustainable employability. My upcoming work will co-develop transparent interventions rooted in empirical data and stakeholder engagement—ensuring accountability, cultural attunement, and practical impact.
Media & Outreach
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YouTube Channel
Watch lectures, interviews, and talks featuring Prof. Rothmann on topics such as employee well-being, capability development, and sustainable employability, hosted via the Optentia Research Unit.
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Optentia Research Unit
Engage with community-facing research outputs and short courses from the Optentia Research Unit. These materials are designed to translate empirical findings into actionable knowledge for students, practitioners, and policymakers.
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NWU News Features
Prof. Rothmann has been profiled in multiple NWU news articles, highlighting his election to the Academy of Science of South Africa (ASSAf) and his pioneering research on capability development for sustainable employment.