Postdoctoral Research Fellowship: Biotechnology& Biological Science

SUMMARY:
DEPARTMENT OF POSTGRADUATE STUDIES AND POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIPS
(On behalf of the Department of Biotechnology and Biological Sciences)
Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship 2026–2028 (24-month period)"

Description: The Department of Biotechnology and Biological Sciences wish to appoint one postdoctoral research fellow (PDRF) to work on the use of eDNA metabarcoding methods to investigate general biodiversity in study areas in the Eastern Cape as well as targeted species surveys. A further aspect of the current research is to assess animal diet through faecal eDNA, and then to also investigate gut microbiome and parasite loads. This can provide us with a holistic overview of animal dietary needs, and health. In addition, the successful applicant will undertake some day-to-day responsibilities in running the laboratory and as such will need to be based in Alice.

POSITION INFO:
Requirements: The successful candidate will preferably have a doctorate, completed in the last five years, in Zoology or Genetics (or closely related field). If not yet in possession of a doctoral degree, they need to submit a written statement from the Registrar (or equivalent) at the issuing University confirming that they satisfactorily fulfilled the University's requirements for a doctoral degree at the time of application for a postdoctoral research fellowship. Details of the qualification and expected date of graduation should be included in the statement. The successful candidate may not be in the employment of UFH (including Time on Task) at the time of taking the postdoctoral fellowship. The successful candidate may not be employed in any other institution\/company during their postdoctoral fellowship. The successful candidate may be of any age, gender or nationality (subject only to the visa regulations of the Department of Home Affairs) Preference will be given to South African females. Conditions : By the end of their first year, the PDRF is expected to have submitted papers amounting to 2 units for review on the topic of their postdoctoral research PDRF extending into their second and subsequent years are expected to have published (or have in-press) 2 units. All papers must be on the topic of postdoctoral research and details of the papers must be submitted by the host to the PGS office by the end of each renewal year. Project requirements: The applicant should have a strong background in Conservation Genetics or Molecular Ecology, with experience in both basic (DNA extraction, DNA amplification etc.) and advanced (DNA sequencing, High-throughput sequencing etc.) laboratory techniques. Experience with Oxford Nanopore sequencing technology would be advantageous. The applicant should have a strong understanding of software package such as R, as well as working knowledge of Linux systems. The applicant needs to be able to troubleshoot issues in the laboratory and during analysis independently. The applicant should have strong writing skills, with a publication record showing experience in Conservation Genetics or Molecular Ecology. Experience in eDNA metabarcoding techniques will be advantageous. Application details: Please email the following documents to Mr. Mandilakhe Qelesile ( ) and copy Ms. Babalwa Solani ( \/ ) Motivation letter should include a 1 - 2-page outline of relevant expertise and experience. Full CV including a list of research publications. Full transcript of recent academic records and a copy of the doctoral degree certificate and any other relevant certificates. Copy of ID document (or copy of passport in the case of foreign applicants). Contact details of two academic referees who have taught\/supervised\/mentored the candidate. On the subject line write Molecular Ecology . For queries: Please contact Prof Craig Tambling for information related to the project: NOTE: Applications will be treated in order of arrival and with the highest degree of confidentiality. ◦ Correspondence will be with short-listed candidates only. The University of Fort Hare is an equal opportunity and affirmative action employer. Pursuant to complying with the Employment Equity Act No.55 of 1998, when appointing, preference will be given to applicants from designated groups whose appointments will contribute towards the achievement of equitable demographic representation of our workforce profile. The University reserves the right NOT to make an appointment. Closing date: 03 September 2026.