18 Research Fellow jobs in South Africa

Minimum Requirements:

• PhD in Biotechnology/Microbiology or related fields
• Expert knowledge in algal biotechnology
• Minimum of three (3) years work experience in a research environment
• Minimum of 5 in the field of algal biotechnology

Recommendations:

• Knowledge of applied algal technology and physiology
• Knowledge of large-scale algal cultivation
• Knowledge of algal physiology
• Publication in high impact factor journals

Summary of duties:

• Publication in leading high impact factor journals
• Designing and conducting research in algal biotechnology
• Operation of large-scale algal raceway pond systems
• Assisting with the preparation of grant applications, proposals, presentations, and progress
• Supervision/co-supervision of postgraduate students
• Provide guidance, advice and technical assistance to students and staff in developing their research techniques.
• Conducting individual or collaborative research

Please complete an official application for employment form obtainable from our website and send a detailed CV and a covering letter with the exact name of the post you are applying for to:

• Application is open to South African citizens and permanent residents only
• Communication will be entered into with short-listed candidates
• Only applications made on our application for employment form would be considered

"While DUT strives for equal opportunities, preference will be in terms of the University's equity policy" "The University reserves the right not to appoint"

Minimum Requirements:

• PhD in Biotechnology/Microbiology or related fields
• Experience in algal biotechnology and phycoremediation

Recommendations:

• Knowledge of applied algal technology
• Knowledge of using algae for industrial wastewater treatment
• Publications in the field of algal biotechnology

Summary of duties:

• Publication in leading high impact factor journals
• Designing and conducting research in algal biotechnology
• Assisting in the operation of large-scale algal raceway pond systems
• Assisting with the preparation of grant applications, proposals, presentations, and progress
• Supervision/co-supervision of postgraduate students
• Provide guidance, advice and technical assistance to students and staff in developing their research techniques.
• Conducting individual or collaborative research

Please complete an official application for employment form obtainable from our website and send a detailed CV and a covering letter with the exact name of the post you are applying for to:

• Application is open to South African citizens and permanent residents only
• Communication will be entered into with short-listed candidates
• Only applications made on our application for employment form would be

"While DUT strives for equal opportunities, preference will be in terms of the University's equity policy" "The University reserves the right not to appoint"

Minimum Requirements:

• PhD in Biotechnology/Microbiology or related fields
• Experience in molecular biology and bioinformatics
• Experience in metabolomics
• Minimum of 2 articles journal articles

Recommendations:

• Experience in metagenomics and metabolomics
• Experience in algae-soil-plant interactions
• Publication in high impact factor journals

Summary of duties:

• Publication in leading high impact factor journals
• Coordinating and managing bioinformatics platform within the institute
• Designing and conducting research in biofertilizer and bioinoculants
• Assisting with the preparation of grant applications, proposals, presentations, and progress
• Supervision/co-supervision of postgraduate students
• Provide guidance, advice and technical assistance to students and staff in developing their research techniques.
• Conducting individual or collaborative research

Please complete an official application for employment form obtainable from our website and send a detailed CV and a covering letter with the exact name of the post you are applying for to:

• Application is open to South African citizens and permanent residents only
• Communication will be entered into with short-listed candidates
• Only applications made on our application for employment form would be considered

"While DUT strives for equal opportunities, preference will be in terms of the University's equity policy" "The University reserves the right not to appoint"

Nelson Mandela University reserves the right not to make an appointment. In considering candidates for appointment into the advertised posts, preference will be accorded to persons from a designated group in accordance with the approved Nelson Mandela University Employment Equity Plan.

CORE PURPOSE OF JOB

The Centre for Broadband Communication (CBC) is a research unit within the Physics Department at Nelson Mandela University. Established in 2015, the Centre works in close collaboration with industry partners, the National Research Foundation, and the CSIR. Its research is multi-disciplinary, focusing on the application of optical fiber, photonics, and wireless technologies for advancing communication systems and optical sensing.

The CBC is strategically positioning itself to further enhance both its research profile and its community engagement activities. The successful candidate should demonstrate a strong research record in optical fiber characterization and optical communication technologies.

Responsibilities will include:

Conducting research and contributing to international research collaborations.

Supervising MSc and PhD students.

Participating in community and industry engagement programmes.

KEY PERFORMANCE AREAS

Conduct high-quality research that results in publications in DHET-accredited journals.

Develop prototypes and carry out field testing for HIRAX and other projects aligned with the Centre for Broadband Communication (CBC) focus areas.

Supervise postgraduate students.

Contribute to institutional research capacity-building initiatives.

Compete successfully for external research funding.

Participate in engagement activities with industry, community, and other stakeholders.

CORE COMPETENCIES

Demonstrated ability to supervise and mentor postgraduate students within a university environment.

Extensive practical experience and deep understanding of optical fiber technologies.

Proven track record in applying advanced optical fiber research techniques across diverse areas, including communications, sensing, time and frequency metrology, geosciences, radio telescope networks, and manufacturing.

Skilled in the measurement and simulation of optical fiber systems, including analysis of BER, PMD, CD, polarization effects, PON, WDM, and EDFA performance.

Strong skills in the interfacing of equipment and related programming will be an advantage.

Experienced in guiding students through innovative research and development projects.

REQUIREMENTS

Ph.D. in Optical Fibre Networks, Optical Communications, or Radio Frequency (RF) Engineering.

Completion of at least one year in a Postdoctoral research program.

Proven experience in supervising postgraduate candidates.

A minimum of five (5) peer-reviewed journal publications.

Demonstrated research expertise in one or more of the following areas:

o

Optical fiber communication systems and networks

o

RF and microwave technologies

Proven ability to conduct independent research and publish in high-impact journals.

Proficiency in MATLAB or Python programming is an added advantage.

Strong analytical, problem-solving, and communication skills.

The
European Institute of Policy Research and Human Rights
is a prestigious institution that offers cutting-edge online programs designed to educate future leaders in policy research, human rights, and related disciplines. Our mission is to deliver world-class skill enhancing programs to candidates globally, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to influence policy and drive positive change in their communities.

Applications are invited for
Junior Research Fellowship
(for candidates enrolled / passed Bachelors / Masters / Doctoral in any discipline)

Program Overview

• Learn and follow our methodology to draft research paper in one of the researchable areas. (No prior experience in research paper writing is required, Candidates will receive comprehensive mentorship and guidance throughout the process / tenure.) Program Certification of Eur297 is applicable. As a Certified Junior Research Fellow is a significant achievement a valuable addition to your CV that can impress future employers, universities, or scholarship committees. It helps set you apart with a unique edge.

What You'll Do:

• Learn and Lead Groundbreaking Research: Know how to Tackle important policy issues and devise groundbreaking solutions.
• Collaborate with Experts
• Strategic Analysis: Utilize data to create influential policy recommendations.
• Publish & Impact: Contribute your findings to esteemed academic and policy publications.

Candidate will be choosing one of the researchable research areas for their research.

Research papers produced by candidates will be published with a Digital Object Identifier (DOI), ensuring the work is uniquely identifiable and accessible through our open-source publication portal.

Eligibility Criteria / Who Can Apply:

• Open to candidates who are currently enrolled in or have completed a Bachelor, Masters or Doctoral program, as well as alumni from any university.
• Applicants from all academic disciplines are welcome, including but not limited to Law, Human Rights, International Relations, Management, Political Science, Social Sciences, Engineering, Medicine, Business, and related fields.
• Working / non working professionals in any sector are encouraged to apply. This includes lecturers, professors, advocates, medical professionals, journalists, engineers, historians, managers, environmental scientists, government officials, social activists, and those involved in politics or any relevant field.
• Candidates must demonstrate the ability to work independently in a virtual environment and effectively meet deadlines.

How To Apply
Interested candidates should submit their updated CV.

Shortlisted candidates will be contacted with complete details.

• Conducting research in Meat Science and Technology.


•  Assists in coordinating of work activities and supervises allocated resources if applicable.


• Collects, captures and processes data.


• Publishes semi-scientific and peer-reviewed articles and publishes in journals with a high impact factor.


• Draw up monthly reports with regard to research progress and data statistics.


• Attends scientific gatherings, workshops, seminars, etc.


• Dissemination of the research results in scientific platforms, locally and internationally.


• Dissemination of results to the general public platforms.


• Participate in national and international networking-related activities.


• Assist in managing undergraduate and postgraduate research projects, within the research group.


• Provides input in the optimisation of new technologies.


• Pro-actively provide technical input within the context of the research projects.


• Comply to all occupational health and safety regulations.


•  Meet peer norm requirements for specific field of expertise, by recognising authorship or Contributions.


• Assists in training junior staff and identifies and participates in own learning opportunities.

• A PhD in Food Science/Technology or Animal Science


• A proven research background in agriculture and Food Science related disciplines,


• Ability to work with students,


• Good communication skills (written and verbal),


• Registration with relevant scientific registration body, will be an added advantage.


• Computer literacy and proficiency in MS Office suite


• A valid South African Code B (08) driver’s license

NB: THOSE WHO APPLIED PREVIOUSLY MUST NOT APPLY.

Enquiries: Dr Ennet Moholisa: Tel:

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS:  29 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.

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.

To provide scientific leadership, mentorship and support to multi-disciplinary teams in the laboratory environment at the Platform.

Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) is a talent driven, customer- centric and impact focused organisation. In our endeavour to support technology innovation with socio-economic outcomes; we seek to infuse the organisation with team players that find resonance as value creators, agile thinkers, progressive attitudes, customer-centricity, dynamic work ethic and an optimistic disposition. We aim to harness these attributes in a manner that they culminate into a culture of teamwork, impact and accountability.

In executing its mandate, the organisation provides funding and non-funding support to stimulate innovation so that it provides a catalytic impact to the economy whilst improving people's lives and protecting the environment. The Agency endeavours to promote the careers of previously disadvantaged persons by applying the principles of the Employment Equity Act, as amended.

The agency reserve thed right not to fill this position.

Qualifications

• MSc Molecular Biology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry or Microbiology
• Preferred: PhD degree

Work Exprerience

• 4 years' experience in the relevant scientific field.
• Be registered with the relevant professional legislated regulatory body. i.e. HPCSA, SACNASP

Finance

• Give input to the formulation of the operational budget and monitor and track applicable spending.
• Provide leadership with expenditure undertaken by the diagnostic section
• Manage and monitor financial obligations that projects have to TIA (e.g. service fees, generation of service quotes, invoices etc)
• Solicit additional funding through submission funding proposals

Stakeholder Relations Plans

• Assume custodianship for linking the Platform and diagnostic section with relevant accreditation authority.
• Manage effective internal and/or external Stakeholder relationships:
• Deliver required service to the stakeholder on brief, time and with quality
• Respond timeous to queries of the stakeholder
• Maintain professional engagements and continuously exceed expectations

Internal Processes

• Lead a multidisciplinary team in diagnostic section, to deliver on approved assignment and assays.
• Provide project management and leadership on assigned projects including project costing
• Provide critical input into the operational plan of the Platform with regards to the area of expertise, i.e. diagnostic sections.
• Lead process of certifying the Diagnostic section in according to the relevant requirement i.e. SANAS. DoH etc
• Develop research protocols and SOP for the laboratory with assistance from other Platform scientists
• Ensure timeous and accurate reporting as per requirements to clients, funders, and other stakeholders. Prepare technical reports, summaries and protocols of the reports
• Compile internal and external proposals with input from the Platform technical team & complete external project review forms
• Ensure adherence to all legal compliance and business processes
• Conduct a technical feasibility study and project definition meeting
• Define a consolidated project plan with deliverables as identified in the project definition meeting
• Source approved equipment and consumables and manage stock levels
• Manage the lab equipment and oversee the general housekeeping of the laboratory.
• Manage SLA's and service received from providers.
• Develop new products and processes at the Platform: Design experiments, analyses results and compile SOP's and test methods in line with client needs and statutory requirements.
• Trouble shoot experimental problems and find solutions
• Draft and publish scientific and technical papers

Governance and Compliance

• Ensure compliance with Legislation, e.g. PFMA and National Treasury Guidelines;
• Ensure compliance to all relevant accounting Standards, Policies and Frameworks; and
• Ensure Compliance with TIA Standard Operating Procedures
• Be registered with the relevant professional legislated regulatory body. i.e. HPCSA, SACNASP

Company Description

The Chirandu Group is a research-led enterprise advancing the science, provenance, and application of indigenous African knowledge. The Group unites research, formulation, and product innovation to develop verified systems of sensory and material intelligence that bridge culture and science. Through The Chirandu Institute and Chirandu Botanica, it conducts heritage documentation, sensory analysis, and formulation development to create credible, high-quality products rooted in African ecosystems.

We are looking for someone passionate about African indigenous and medicinal plants and how they can shape the future of clean, market-ready food, wellness, and personal care products.

In this part-time role, you will support our Lead Ethnobotanical Research Scientist with:

• Ethnobotanical mapping
• Profiling ingredients and bioactive compounds
• Structuring African Indigenous knowledge systems

If you are detail-oriented, research-driven, and excited to bring traditional wisdom into modern innovation, we would love to hear from you.

Role Purpose

The Ethnobotanical Research Scientist will support the research and developmental team by gathering, validating, and structuring African indigenous plant knowledge into standardized dossiers. These dossiers form the foundation of the company's knowledge archive, supporting downstream formulation, licensing, and product development. 

Key responsibilities

• Research & document interdisciplinary knowledge on botany, phytochemistry, traditional uses and ecological sustainability of African indigenous plants.
• Populate ingredient dossiers and bioactive profiles using standardized templates provided by Chirandu Botanica.
• Reporting and documentation of research that is publication-worthy & aligns with both scientific and cultural perspectives.
• Identify overlaps, contradictions, and research gaps when profiling and mapping the plants.
• Participate in peer review sessions with the Lead Ethnobotanical Research Scientist.
• Contribute insights & incorporate feedback to improve the quality of dossiers, formulations and commercialization priorities.
• Support field visits, interviews, or data collection when needed.
• Ensure compliance with heritage and attribution protocols.

Qualifications & Experience

• Master's in Botany, Ethnobotany, Pharmacognosy, Ethnopharmacology, Medicinal Plant Chemistry, Phytochemistry, Natural Products Chemistry, or related field
• • 2 years of research experience (experience must also be in industry, not just academic). and academic writing. (Publication is an added advantage)
• Experience with literature reviews and academic references.
• Familiarity with African indigenous knowledge systems
• Ability to work independently
• Familiarity with product development using indigenous medicinal plants will be an added advantage.

Email your CV and short motivational letter to

Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you do not receive feedback within 2 weeks, consider your application unsuccessful.

Status: Full-time permanent

Direct report to: Academic Director

Work location: AIMS South Africa, 6 Melrose Road, Muizenberg

Start date: 1 October 2025, or as soon as possible thereafter

Summary

The African Institute for Mathematical Sciences in Cape Town is seeking a highly organized and motivated Research and Academic Program Manager. This role is crucial for the effective operation of our department, supporting both our research initiatives and academic programs. The role requires a keen interest in scientific discovery.

The ideal candidate will be a proactive problem-solver with excellent communication skills and an ability to manage multiple projects simultaneously. The Research and Academic Program Manager will support efficient administrative operations, reporting, managing complex scheduling and serve as a key liaison with internal and external stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

● Program Management: Oversee the administration of departmental academic programs, including supporting the Academic Director with curriculum planning, and course and exam scheduling.

● Research Support: Assist the AIMS Research Centre with research program management. Coordinate research team meetings, track research milestones and publications.

● Liaison: Serve as a program management point of contact between research students, researchers, students, and South African and international research and academic partners.

● Grants Support: Assist faculty with grant applications, manage research project budgets, and ensure compliance with university and funding agency regulations.

● Administrative Oversight: Handle day-to-day administrative tasks, including managing course and research calendars, and coordinating meetings and reports.

Required Qualifications

● A bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., mathematics, computer science, business administration, or a related discipline) or equivalent combination of education and experience.

● Proven experience in program and project management or a similar administrative role, preferably in a research environment.

● Strong organizational and time-management skills.

● Excellent written and verbal communication abilities.

● Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a fast-paced, deadline-driven environment.

Applications

To apply, please submit the following as one PDF to

● A cover letter detailing your relevant experience and interest in the position

● Your CV, max 4 pages, and proof of qualifications

● Contact information for at least two references including a recent direct line manager

Applications will be accepted until 15 September 2025 or until the position is filled.

If you do not hear from us in 4 weeks please consider your application as unsuccessful.

AIMS South Africa reserves the right not to make an appointment at its sole discretion.