29 Postdoctoral Position jobs in South Africa

Work Description

The Smart Radio Sensors is seeking outstanding and motivated candidates to apply for a postdoctoral research position in Applied Radiation Science and/or Nuclear Science. The researcher will join a dynamic group of scientists involved in researching and developing radiation based solutions to address challenges experienced by industry. The candidate will also be responsible for reporting on work completed in group meetings, assisting with Honours, Masters and PhD student co-supervision. The candidate must have a high productivity toward publications, contribute in authoring research reports and presenting at conferences and workshops. Candidate is expected to publish a minimum of two papers (internally or externally peer reviewed) per year. The candidate is also expected to assist in the preparation of grant proposals.

Minimum Requirements:

• The candidate should hold a PhD in Radiation Science or Nuclear Physics with a focus on applications of Radiation Detection, obtained within the past five years. The candidate should not be older than 45 years at the time of application.

• A strong focus with be on producing research outputs within a team with a minimum of one accepted publication in the last five years with additional publications an added advantage. Publications should be in the area of Radiation Science or Nuclear Physics.

• Good English communication skills, both oral and written, are a prerequisite.

Salary and Application

The value of the postdoctoral fellowship is ZAR per annum (paid as a monthly taxable salary) with the option of renewal for two more years based on performance in the first year.

1. A one-page covering letter identifying how you meet the minimum requirements

2. A detailed CV, including work/research experience, and skills relevant for the position.

3. Names and contact details of 3 references.

4. Certified copy of qualifications or PhD award letter.

Closing date: 10 September 2025

HR CONTACT DETAILS

Tel: /

Late applications will not be considered. Necsa Group is committed to Employment Equity when recruiting.

Should you not hear from us within 30 days of the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.

Applications are invited from suitably qualified candidates for an NRF-grant holder linked Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in the School of Chemistry and Physics. The successful applicant will engage in full-time postdoctoral research and contribute to projects in Bioinorganic Chemistry and Radiolabelling studies. The value of the NRF-grant postdoctoral fellowship is R per annum, with the option of renewal for another year based on acceptable performance in the first year.

The research project is entitled "Imaging and Therapy for cancer and other diseases using radioisotopes of rhenium and technetium compounds linked to biologically active molecules ". It is supported by the Nuclear Technologies in Medicine and the Biosciences Initiative (NTeMBI). NTeMBI is a national technology platform developed and managed by the South African Nuclear Energy Corporation (NECSA). The cold bioinorganic chemistry will be performed in the School of Chemistry and Physics, UKZN (PMB), under the supervision of Prof Irvin Noel Booysen and Dr Allen Mambanda. Radiolabelling studies will be conducted at NECSA under the supervision of the NECSA Research Leader-Radiolabelling, Dr Molahlehi Sonopo.

Minimum Requirements:

• PhD in Chemistry (obtained in the last five years) focusing on Bioinorganic Chemistry or Medicinal Chemistry.
• Evidence of sufficient research publications in Bioinorganic Chemistry or Medicinal Chemistry.
• Evidence of postgraduate student mentorship and training.

Candidates must forward their detailed CVs to Prof. I Booysen ) by 06/10/2025. Three contactable references must be included in the CV, and certified copies of degree certificates must be attached. No late applications will be considered. If you are not contacted by 15/10/2025 for an interview, please consider your application unsuccessful. Please note that correspondence will be limited to short-listed candidates. The School of Chemistry and Physics reserves the right not to make an appointment.

Job Type: Part-time

Pay: R300 000,00 - R320 000,00 per year

Work Location: In person

Brookhaven National Laboratory ) delivers discovery science and transformative technology to power and secure the nation's future. Brookhaven Lab is a multidisciplinary laboratory with seven Nobel Prize-winning discoveries, 37 R&D 100 Awards, and more than 70 years of pioneering research. The Lab is primarily supported by the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Office of Science. Brookhaven Science Associates (BSA) operates and manages the Laboratory for DOE. BSA is a partnership between Battelle and The Research Foundation for the State University of New York on behalf of Stony Brook University. BSA salutes our veterans and active military members with careers that leverage the skills and unique experience they gained while serving our country. Our organization fully supports service members transitioning from active duty to civilian life and pledge's our commitment to actively hire veterans of the U.S. Armed Forces. Military personnel who have been formally trained or have relevant experience obtained while in service may meet educational requirements and are encouraged to apply for job opportunities at BSA.

Organizational Overview

The Environmental & Climate Sciences Department (ECSD) ) at Brookhaven National Laboratory focuses on a wide range of theoretical, experimental, and field studies in support of the U.S. Department of Energy's climate and energy research agendas. Work is supported by the Atmospheric Radiation Measurement (ARM) User Facility ), an observations-based program that measures aerosols, clouds, precipitation, radiation, and atmospheric dynamics; the Atmospheric Systems Research Program ), and the Environmental System Science Program ). This work is pursued with the ultimate goal of improving predictability and reducing the uncertainty in global and regional climate models. The department research portfolio also includes development of environmental technologies and applications for renewable energies, urban science, and national security.

The Aerosol Chemistry & Microphysics Group ) within ECSD is focused on improving process-level understanding of aerosol formation and evolution mechanisms, aerosol absorption, and the direct and indirect influences that aerosols have on clouds, precipitation and climate. Understanding the physics, chemistry and dynamics of interactions along this aerosol-cloud-precipitation continuum is crucial for development of a predictive understanding of the climate system.

Position Description

The Aerosol Chemistry & Microphysics Group seeks a Postdoctoral Research Associate to advance understanding of the atmospheric boundary layer dynamics that control the spatial distribution and timing of new particle formation (NPF) – the formation of new aerosol from gas-phase precursors. The ideal candidate will have a strong interest in aerosol instrument development, observational field deployments, and the synthesis of observational data sets of atmospheric boundary layer dynamics and aerosol properties. This position has a high level of interaction with an international and multicultural scientific community.

NPF is an important environmental nano-scale process, with field measurements and modeling studies indicating that freshly formed particles can contribute significantly to the global population of aerosol and cloud condensation nuclei. While there have been an increasing number of NPF measurements from surface-based platforms, there have been very few measurements of vertically-resolved NPF from aerial platforms. Vertically-resolved atmospheric NPF measurements are needed because aerosol formation in the upper troposphere may be a significant source of cloud condensation nuclei. Furthermore, these vertically-resolved measurements are needed to connect the atmospheric conditions that drive atmospheric NPF with large-scale boundary layer transport processes and meteorology. In this project, we will be utilizing observations of boundary layer dynamics and vertically-resolved nanoparticle concentrations ) to understand how local micrometeorology and boundary layer dynamics control the evolution and distribution of boundary layer aerosol properties and processes.

Essential Duties And Responsibilities
Analyze co-located observations of atmospheric dynamics and spatially-distributed aerosol Determine the atmospheric controls on aerosol spatial and temporal dynamics Publish in peer-reviewed journals Present at national and international meetings

Position Requirements

Required
Required Knowledge, Skills, and Abilities:
Ph.D. in aerosol science, atmospheric science, meteorology, engineering, or a closely related field Experience with using remotely sensed observations of atmospheric boundary layer aerosol, dynamics, and meteorology Clear and concise verbal and written communication and collaboration skills Ability to develop and pursue independent research ideas Ability to work well in a diverse team across cultures and experiences

Preferred Knowledge, Skills, And Abilities
Experience with using in-situ observations of newly formed aerosol A record of publication in high quality, internationally recognized journals

Other
BNL policy requires that after obtaining a PhD, eligible candidates for research associate appointments may not exceed a combined total of 5 years of relevant work experience as a post-doc and/or in an R&D position, excluding time associated with family planning, military service, illness, or other life-changing events. Review of applications begins immediately. Applications will be accepted until the position is filled. The initial term appointment will be one year, subject to renewal contingent on funding and performance. Research will be under the direction of Dr. Chongai Kuang.

Benefits
At Brookhaven National Laboratory we believe that a comprehensive employee benefits program is an important and meaningful part of the compensation employees receive. Our benefits program includes, but is not limited to:

Medical, Dental, and Vision Care Plans Flexible Spending Accounts Paid Time-off and Leave Programs (vacation, holidays, sick leave, paid parental leave) 401(k) Plan Flexible Work Arrangements Tuition Assistance, Training and Professional Development Programs Employee Fitness/Wellness & Recreation: Gym/Basketball Courts, Weight Room, Fitness Classes, Indoor Pool, Tennis Courts, Sports Clubs/Activities (Basketball, Ping Pong, Softball, Tennis) Brookhaven Science Associates requires proof of a COVID-19 vaccination for all employees. Proof of full vaccination as recognized by the CDC and/or WHO, inclusive of the two-week waiting period, is required at the start of your employment.

Brookhaven National Laboratory (BNL) is an equal opportunity employer that values inclusion and diversity at our Lab.We are committed to ensuring that all qualified applicants receive consideration for employment and will not be discriminated against on the basis of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, national origin, age, status as a veteran, disability or any other federal, state or local protected class.

BNL takes affirmative action in support of its policy and to advance in employment individuals who are minorities, women, protected veterans, and individuals with disabilities.We ensure that individuals with disabilities are provided reasonable accommodation to participate in the job application or interview process, to perform essential job functions, and to receive other benefits and privileges of employment.Please contact us to request accommodation.

VEVRAA Federal Contractor

Job Title

Postdoctoral Research Fellowship (1-year contract, renewable up to 2 years) Job ID: 6256

Organizational Unit

University of the Free State -> Faculty of Law -> Office of the Vice-Dean: Learning, Teaching, Innovation and Digitalisation

Contract Type

Contract

Occupational Level

Temporary

Location

Bloemfontein Campus - Bloemfontein, FS ZA (Primary)

Closing Date

30/11/2025

Description

The University of the Free State (UFS) invites applications from suitably qualified candidates for a postdoctoral fellowship in the Office of the Vice-Dean: Learning, Teaching, Innovation and Digitalisation in the Faculty of Law. Candidates interested in pursuing an academic or professional career in (research) Law, with special research interests in teaching, learning, innovation and digitalisation are encouraged to apply.

The fellowship will enable an outstanding doctoral graduate to obtain experience in research and innovation at a higher education institution under the mentorship of established researchers.

The fellowship is awarded on a competitive basis, considering the applicants' academic achievements, publication outputs and research potential, as well as the relevance of prior experience and expertise. The fellowship is available for a period of one year, renewable for up to two years subject to satisfactory performance and available funding.

Duties and responsibilities:

• Conduct original, innovative and impactful research linked to the Vice-Dean's portfolio.
• Generate high-quality, DHET-accredited outputs contributing to national and international debates on teaching, learning, and digitalisation in higher education. The renewal of the fellowship beyond the first year depends on satisfactory performance and the submission of an annual progress report.
• Participate in research projects and seek funding for them.
• Register and reside as postdoctoral research fellow at the UFS and participate in relevant activities of the School of Postgraduate Studies and the Directorate of Research.

Eligibility criteria:

• Open to all South African and foreign nationals for full-time research at the University of the Free State.
• Graduated with an LLD or PhD degree in a relevant discipline within the last five years.
• Successful applicants may not hold full-time salaried employment during the fellowship.
• Successful applicants must be able to relocate to the UFS for the duration of the fellowship. This is a residential fellowship: the successful applicant is required to spend 80% of their postdoctoral period at the UFS.

Competencies

To apply, please email the following documentation by 30 November 2025 to Dr. Jacques Matthee at

• Motivation letter, including a 1–2-page outline of relevant expertise and experience.
• Full CV including a list of research publications, conference papers and other scholarly output.
• Full transcripts of academic record and copy of doctoral degree certificate.
• Copy of ID document (or copy of passport in the case of foreign applicants).
• Contact details of two academic referees who have taught/supervised the candidate.

Value of the fellowship:

• R Annual Fellowship.
• R30 000 Additional Research Expenses.

Commencement of fellowship:

01 February 2026

Closing date:

30 November 2025

Enquiries:

Email: Dr. Jacques Matthee at

General:

The UFS is a designated employer and is committed to the pursuit of excellence, diversity, and redress in achieving its equity targets in accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets. Preference will be given to candidates from the under-represented designated groups including candidates with disabilities. Our Employment Equity Plan is available at: UFS EEA13 1 March 2025_28 Feb 2026

The University processes personal information in line with its obligations under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and any personal information provided to the University will be treated as confidential and processed in accordance with the rights provided to data subjects under POPIA.

The University reserves the right not to fill the post. The UFS will only consider applications of candidates who meet all the inherent requirements of the position. Applications that are incomplete will not be considered. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. Should you not be contacted within six weeks of the closing date for applications, you may assume that your application was unsuccessful.

How to apply to this job

To apply, please email the following documentation by 30 November 2025 to Dr. Jacques Matthee at

• Motivation letter, including a 1–2-page outline of relevant expertise and experience.
• Full CV including a list of research publications, conference papers and other scholarly output.
• Full transcripts of academic record and copy of doctoral degree certificate.
• Copy of ID document (or copy of passport in the case of foreign applicants).
• Contact details of two academic referees who have taught/supervised the candidate.

Eastern Cape, Eastern Cape

The University of Fort Hare is a vibrant, equitable and sustainable African university, committed to teaching and research excellence at the service of its students, scholars and the wider community.

We are inviting applications for the position of Specialist: Postdoctoral Fellowships Programme within the Department of Postgraduate Studies and Postdoctoral Fellowships. The incumbent will be responsible for the coordination and administration of applications for various funding channels for eligible postdoctoral fellows. The Specialist will serve as a primary point of contact for postdoctoral candidates throughout their application process, for appointments to join UFH, funding application processes and monitoring their academic and professional journeys as postdoctoral fellows. The ideal candidate should possess in-depth knowledge of various postdoctoral funding sources.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

• An Honours Degree; a Master's Degree will be considered an added advantage.
• A minimum of three (3) years of experience in administering postdoctoral or research fellows.
• A strong knowledge of institutional and external funding policies and procedures.
• Excellent written and oral communication skills, with attention to detail.

KEY ROLES & RESPONSIBILITIES INCLUDE:

Application Coordination:

• Overseeing the postdoctoral fellowship funding applications, ensuring timely and accurate submissions.
• Maintaining a comprehensive and centralized database to monitor applications, statuses, tracking progress and outcomes.

Funder Liaison:

• Serve as the primary point of contact between the institution and various postdoctoral funding agencies.
• Establish and maintain relationships with alumni, government, industry stakeholders, and international funding bodies to facilitate collaboration and support.

Advisory Role:

• Provide expert advice and guidance to postdoctoral fellows on funding opportunities, application processes, and eligibility criteria.
• Assist postdoctoral fellows in preparing application materials, including project proposals and budgets.
• Ensure all applications comply with institutional policies and funder requirements.

Workshops and Training:

• Organize and conduct workshops to educate potential applicants about funding opportunities and application best practices.
• Promote the Postdoctoral Fellowships Programme through outreach activities at conferences, workshops, and academic events.

Monitoring and Evaluation:

• Track the success rates of funding applications and compile reports on outcomes and trends.
• Assess the effectiveness of the fellowship program and recommend improvements based on data analysis

COMPETENCIES:

• Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work collaboratively with diverse stakeholders.
• Proficiency in data management and reporting tools.
• Ability to work independently and as part of a team.
• Good decision-making skills and integrity in following through on commitments.

Closing Date: 26 October 2025

Interested applicants who meet the criteria are invited to:

Visit the Website for a more comprehensive advert and to apply online.

• Applications must be accompanied by:
  
  a) A recent and comprehensive curriculum vitae
  
  b) A Covering Letter stating how applicants satisfy the requirements of the advertised position/s
  
  c) A completed University of Fort Hare Application Form
  
  d) Copies of the applicant's qualifications. Foreign qualifications must be accompanied by an evaluation certificate from SAQA.

• No faxed, emailed or walk-ins (hard copies) will be accepted.

• Applicants are urged to ensure that their applications reach the Human Resources Department before the closing date. Late or incomplete applications will not be considered.

• Failure to comply with the above directions will result in the application/s being disqualified.

CONTACT DETAILS

Queries can be directed to Ms. S Sigodi on and Correspondence will be conducted with short-listed candidates only.

The University reserves the right NOT to make an appointment. 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 as amended, when appointing, preference will be given to applicants from designated groups whose appointments will contribute towards achievement of equitable demographic representation of our workforce profile."

• Conduct advanced research on dry anaerobic digestion (AD) of agricultural residues, including microbial, biochemical, and engineering aspects.
• Develop and optimise protocols for integrating biochar and AD for renewable energy and soil health benefits.
• Carry out microbial community and genomic analyses to identify functional drivers in dry AD systems.
• Collect and analyse laboratory data on AD and digestate applications.
• Prepare scientific publications, policy briefs, technical reports and presentations aligned with SDGs (energy, climate, agriculture).
• Engage with farmers, stakeholders and international partners to support technology transfer and adoption.

• Contribute to capacity building by mentoring students and facilitating training activities.

• PhD in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Environmental Science or related field.

• Strong expertise in anaerobic digestion, renewable energy, and/or applied microbial biotechnology.
• Experience in microbial genomics, bioinformatics, and/or bioprocess optimisation is an advantage.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and publish in high-impact journals.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal), with ability to engage both academic and non-academic audiences and train students.
• Interest in science-policy interface and contribution to SDGs (energy, climate action, food security).

• Willingness to travel for fieldwork and stakeholder engagement.

• Valid driver's licence (code 08/EB).

Enquiries: Dr A Roopnarain: Tel: or Dr H Rama:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 30 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 (as well as competency and leadership assessments).

Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees, certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver's license must be attached on the form.

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.

• Design and execute experiments or studies aligned with the ARC research agenda.


• Analyse data and interpret results using appropriate methodologies


• Contribute to multi-disciplinary or cross-institutional research initiatives.


• Write and submit articles to peer-reviewed journals.


• Present at conferences, seminars, and workshops.


• Mentor postgraduate (MSc/PhD) students or interns.


• Data analysis.


• Assist in preparing funding proposals and research grant applications.


• Attend workshops, training sessions, and seminars to build skills in areas like project management, scientific writing, or advanced research techniques.


• Engage in collaborative research and knowledge exchange.


• Submit regular progress reports to supervisors.


• Compliance to Research integrity and ethics.

Requirements

• PhD (awarded within the last 5 years) in Agronomy, Plant Sciences, Plant Production or a related field.


• Two (2) peer-reviewed publications.


• Excellent written and verbal communication skills

REMUNARATION

• R350 000 per annum (taxable)

 Enquiries: Dr Meshack Mofokeng Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 01 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 (as well as competency and leadership assessments).

Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees.  Certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.

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 organization reserves the right not to appoint.

Postdoctoral Research Position in Sensor Fabrication for Contaminant Detection

A research team seeks to recruit a suitable qualified postdoctoral research fellow to work on a multi-disciplinary research project aimed at investigating the use of sensors modified with nano-materials for detection and monitoring of water contaminants. The position will be awarded taking into account the applicant's experience and research potential.

Value and tenure

The position is initially for a period of one year, but can be extended based on a satisfactory performance, and availability of funds.

Minimum requirements

• PhD degree in electro-analytical chemistry/nano-technology, or a closely related field
• Hands-on experience in field/laboratory techniques in the related subject
• A track record of publications related to the outlined research area
• Experience in the use of screen-printed electrodes (SPE) and software for electrochemical data processing
• Experience in impedance voltammetry, cyclic voltammetry, square wave voltammetry and similar techniques would be an advantage
• The successful applicant should have particular experience in chemical sensors fabrication, modification, characterization and application
• Experience in the use of nano-sensors for the detection of toxic heavy metals (THM)
• Other likely techniques for THM detection can be considered

Method of Application

Applicants should submit a one-page letter, outlining relevant experience and expertise; curriculum vitae (CV) including a list of publications, names and contact details of 3 referees. All the documents should be combined and submitted as a single PDF file.

Selection process

Applications not compliant with the above requirements will be regarded as incomplete. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted for further consideration. If you are not contacted within two weeks of the closing date, you can consider your application as unsuccessful. The advertiser reserves the right not to make an appointment for the position.

Closing date: 1 8 October 2025.

Job Types: Full-time, Temporary

Contract length: 12 months

Pay: R200 000,00 - R240 000,00 per year

Work Location: In person

• Research Capacity Training through student support.


• Research Methodologies for conducting research.


• Quantitative data analysis.


• Qualitative data analysis.


• Research proposal development.


• Writing articles for publications.


• Writing grant applications.


• Compliance to Research integrity and ethics.

• PhD Environmental Management majoring in Remote Sensing,Obtained within the last 5 years.

• Authored or co-Authored a minimum of two peer review scientific publications in a related filed.

Enquiries: . Regina Makhura Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 01 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 (as well as competency and leadership assessments).

Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees.  Certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver’s license must be attached on the form.

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 organization reserves the right not to appoint.