Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Pathogen Genomics and Genomic Surveillance x2
Job Details
- Position: Postdoctoral Research Fellowship in Pathogen Genomics and Genomic Surveillance (2 Positions)
- Job ID: 6508
- Institution: University of the Free State
- Faculty: Health Sciences
- Department: School of Biomedical Sciences – Next Generation Sequencing Unit
- Location: Bloemfontein Campus
- Contract Type: Fixed-Term Fellowship
- Duration: 1 Year (Renewable annually for up to 3 years based on performance)
- Commencement Date: 1 August 2026
- Closing Date: 3 July 2026
- Number of Positions: 2
Job Description
The fellowship is designed for outstanding doctoral graduates seeking advanced research experience in biomedical sciences, with a focus on pathogen genomics and genomic surveillance. Fellows will work within the Next Generation Sequencing Unit under the mentorship of experienced researchers and contribute to cutting-edge research investigating respiratory and enteric viral pathogens.
The position combines laboratory-based genomic research, bioinformatics analysis, postgraduate student mentorship, scientific publication, and collaborative public health research.
Key Responsibilities
Laboratory and Genomic Research
- Participate in wet-lab and dry-lab research activities.
- Process biological samples for genomic analysis.
- Prepare sequencing libraries.
- Perform next-generation sequencing (NGS) using the Illumina NextSeq 2000 platform.
- Conduct metagenomic and whole-genome sequencing studies.
Bioinformatics and Data Analysis
- Analyse sequencing data using bioinformatics pipelines.
- Perform:
- Pathogen identification
- Genome assembly
- Phylogenetic analysis
- Viral diversity assessments
- Profile antimicrobial resistance genes (ARGs).
- Integrate genomic, epidemiological, and clinical datasets.
Genomic Surveillance
- Study pathogen transmission dynamics.
- Investigate vaccine-induced selective pressures.
- Support genomic surveillance initiatives for infectious diseases.
- Contribute to the development and maintenance of a centralized paediatric pathogen genomic database.
Research Output
- Prepare and publish high-impact scientific manuscripts.
- Present research findings through scholarly outputs.
- Contribute to research innovation and scientific advancement.
Student Supervision and Capacity Building
- Co-supervise MSc and PhD students.
- Support training initiatives and genomics capacity-building programmes.
- Participate in DIPLOMICS workshops and related educational activities.
General Research Support
- Assist with laboratory operations.
- Manage research data and documentation.
- Collaborate with multidisciplinary research teams.
- Support ongoing research projects within the School of Biomedical Sciences.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet all the following requirements:
Academic Qualification
- PhD in:
- Medical Virology
- Microbiology
- Genomics
- Molecular Biology
- Or a closely related field
- The PhD must have been obtained within the last five years, or applicants must provide proof that all degree requirements have been completed.
Technical Expertise
Applicants should demonstrate expertise in:
- Next-Generation Sequencing (NGS)
- Viral metagenomics
- Pathogen genomics
- Bioinformatics workflows
- Genome assembly and phylogenetic analysis
Experience with the following is highly desirable:
- Illumina sequencing platforms
- Library preparation techniques
- Genome Detective
- One Codex
- Similar bioinformatics tools
Research Experience
- Proven publication record in reputable scientific journals.
- Strong data analysis skills.
- Experience with Python and/or R programming.
- Ability to conduct independent research.
Additional Advantages
Preference may be given to candidates with experience in:
- Antimicrobial resistance gene profiling
- Clinical and epidemiological data integration
- Paediatric infectious diseases
- Respiratory virology
- Enteric virology
- Genomic surveillance in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs)
Personal and Professional Competencies
- Strong organisational skills.
- Excellent communication abilities.
- Effective problem-solving skills.
- Ability to work independently.
- Ability to work collaboratively within multidisciplinary teams.
- Ability to perform effectively in a fast-paced research environment.
Fellowship Conditions
Successful candidates:
- May not hold full-time salaried employment during the fellowship period.
- Must relocate to Bloemfontein if not already based there.
- Must spend at least 80% of their fellowship period on the UFS Bloemfontein Campus.
- May be South African or international applicants.
Fellowship Value
Annual Fellowship Funding
- R270,000 per year
Research Support Funding
- Additional R30,000 per year for research-related expenses
Application Requirements
Applicants must submit:
- Cover letter outlining:
- Academic background
- Research interests
- Suitability for the project
- Comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- List of publications and scholarly outputs
- Full academic transcripts
- PhD certificate (or proof of completion)
- SAQA accreditation (for foreign qualifications)
- Certified copy of ID or passport
- Contact details of two academic referees
Application Method
Applications must be emailed directly to:
Prof. M.M. Nyaga
Nyagamm@ufs.ac.za