Postdoctoral Research Fellowship: Computational Sciences

SUMMARY:
DEPARTMENT OF POSTGRADUATE STUDIES AND POSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIPS
(On behalf of the Department Computational Sciences)
 
Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship 2026–2028 (24-month period)
 
Applications are invited for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in the Department of
Computational Sciences under the discipline of Pure and Applied Mathematics at the University of Fort Hare, under the supervision of Prof Dephney Mathebula. The fellowship forms part of an active research programme focusing on Mathematical Modelling of Infectious Diseases using Multiscale Modelling Approaches.

The successful candidate will join a vibrant research environment dedicated to developing mathematical and computational models that integrate processes occurring at multiple biological scales, including within-host dynamics, population-level disease transmission, and public health control measures.

Research Focus
The successful candidate will contribute to research in one or more of the following areas:

• Mathematical modelling of infectious diseases.
• Multiscale modelling of host-pathogen interactions.
• Within-host and between-host disease dynamics.
• Numerical methods and scientific computing.
• Data-driven infectious disease modelling.
• Optimal control and intervention strategies.
• Computational simulations and model validation.
• Applications of artificial intelligence and machine learning in epidemiological modelling.

POSITION INFO:
Minimum Requirements Applicants must: Hold a PhD in Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Modelling, Biomathematics, Computational Mathematics, or a closely related field. Have obtained their doctoral degree within the last five (5) years. Demonstrate evidence of research productivity through at least three (3) research articles in DHET-accredited journals. Demonstrate strong analytical, mathematical, computational, and scientific writing skills. Demonstrate the ability to work independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary research team. Preference will be given to: South African citizens and permanent residents. Female candidates. Candidates whose research interests align closely with the research focus of the project. Fellowship Value and Duration The fellowship is valued at R300,000 per annum (tax-free) . The initial appointment will be for 24 months , subject to the University's Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Policy. Renewal beyond the initial appointment period will be based on satisfactory performance and achievement of the required research outputs. Expected Outputs The successful candidate will be expected to: Conduct high-quality research in mathematical modelling of infectious diseases. Develop and analyse multiscale mathematical models. Perform numerical simulations and computational analyses. Publish research outputs in DIET-accredited journals. Present research findings at national and international conferences. Participate in departmental and faculty research activities. Assist in strengthening postgraduate research capacity within the Department. Application Documents Applicants should submit the following: A motivation letter outlining research interests and suitability for the fellowship. A detailed curriculum vitae. Certified copies of academic qualifications. A copy of the PhD certificate (or proof of completion). Copies of recent publications. Contact details of at least three academic referees. Applications details: Full CV (including publications), motivation letter (2-3 pages long), and proof of completion of doctorate. On the subject line write Pure and Applied Mathematics, applications to be sent to Mr. Mandilakhe Qelesile at and copy Ms. Babalwa Solani at \/ For enquiries: Please contact Dr Mathebula, Dephney, E-mail: The University of Fort Hare is committed to employment equity and transformation. Preference will be given to suitably qualified South African citizens, particularly women, in line with institutional policies and strategic objectives. Closing date: 26 June 2026