VACANCIES
VACANCIES
Postdoctoral Fellow
Postharvest Pathology
The Department of Plant Pathology at Stellenbosch University , and the Department of Postharvest Technology at Mpumalanga University are dedicated to addressing disease management and cross-cutting innovative technologies for postharvest technology and control of postharvest diseases in the agricultural industries.
We are seeking to appoint a postdoctoral fellow who is a recent PhD graduate (within the last five years) in plant pathology, microbiology, or related applied sciences to contribute to our research in computational and experimental analysis and optimization of disease management.
Research focus
The successful candidate will develop and participate in research focused on modelling disease risk, and identifying postharvest pathogens and their virulence determinants using whole genome sequencing analysis.
Minimum requirements
- PhD with research experience in numerical modelling techniques, particularly Computational Bioinformatics
- Demonstrable ability to work with relevant modelling and simulation software
General duties and responsibilities
- Conduct original research in postharvest pathology
- Participate in postgraduate student supervision
- Prepare scientific reports and journal articles for publication
Personal attributes
- Open-minded and willing to push the boundaries of scientific enquiry
- Passion for research and excellence in the field
Appointment details
Duration: One year, renewable annually based on performance and availability of funds.
Preference: South African applicants will be given preference.
Closing date: 30 November 2025, or as soon as a suitable candidate is selected.
Interested candidates are encouraged to apply with a comprehensive CV, cover letter, and relevant publications. Applications and inquiries should be directed to Dr. Julia Meitz-Hopkins, Research Fellow (juliam@sun.ac.za).
RESEARCHER PLANT PATHOLOGY
REF NO: ARC-gc 58
Job Description
Project Management & Coordination
The Researcher is responsible for conducting research projects across the Institute; these include the following aspects of the projects:
Research planning and initiation.
Equipment and Research Materials.
Project Human Resources.
Project Finances.
Risk Management and Mitigation.
Monitoring, Evaluation, reporting and project close out.
Research, Development, and Innovation
The Researcher is responsible for conducting research, development and supporting innovation. These include supporting the following research aspects:
Invention.
Translation.
Commercialization.
Adoption and Use.
Research Collaboration
The Researcher is responsible for supporting strategic research collaboration and collaboration opportunities. These include:
- Strategic Research partnerships / networks / collaborators.
- Intra-Inter Institutional Collaboration & Partnerships.
Human Capacity Building
The Researcher is responsible for supporting Human Capacity Development that includes support of:
- Project staff and students.
- Self.
- Strategic Research partnerships / networks / collaborators.
- Intra-Inter Institutional Collaboration & Partnerships.
Human Capacity Building
The Researcher is responsible for supporting Human Capacity Development that includes support of:
- Project staff and students.
- Self.
Job Requirements
- PhD or Masters Degree (Plant Pathology or Microbiology) with 3 to 5 peer reviewed scientific publications
- Preference will be given to published articles with a strong focus on plant pathology in Grain Crops.
- Registration with a scientific and professional body will be added advantage.
- Proven track record for generating external income for research projects.
- Experience in supervising/mentoring post graduate students.
- NRF rating will be an added advantage.
- Valid EB driver’s licence
Enquiries: Dr B Janse van Rensburg, Tel: (018) 299 6357
CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 08 OCTOBER 2025
A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes to Employment Equity Act.
Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees. Certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license must be attached.
A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months probation period. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint.
