Researcher: Ecological Engineering Institute of Africa x1
Job Details
Job Title: Researcher: Ecological Engineering Institute of Africa (EEIA)
Job ID: 6621
Reference Number: 2301
Company: University of the Free State (UFS)
Department: Ecological Engineering Institute of Africa (EEIA)
Faculty: Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences
Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
Employment Type: Permanent (or five-year contract appointment, subject to the specified qualification requirements)
Occupational Level: Junior Management
Salary: Available on request
Assumption of Duties: 1 January 2027
Closing Date: 23 October 2026
Job Description
The University of the Free State is seeking a qualified and experienced Researcher to join the Ecological Engineering Institute of Africa (EEIA). The successful candidate will contribute to research and development in ecological engineering, wastewater treatment, microalgae bioprocessing and bioremediation.
The role involves maintaining and expanding research pipelines involving wastewater-treatment microalgae, exploring innovative methods to improve the bioreceptivity of 3D-printed concrete biofilters, advising postgraduate students, assisting with research funding applications, teaching and publishing scientific research.
Key Responsibilities
Maintain, manage and expand the analytical biocomplexity pipeline for wastewater-treatment microalgae, including C. vulgaris and C. protothecoides.
Conduct research into microalgae bioprocessing and biocomplexity testing.
Explore innovative research strategies to optimise the bioreceptivity of 3D-printed concrete biofilters for bioremediation.
Assist with research funding applications for the Ecological Engineering Institute of Africa.
Provide technical advice and support to postgraduate students undertaking ecological engineering projects.
Teach the Data-driven Ecological Engineering module as part of the Postgraduate Diploma (PGDip) in Ecological Engineering.
Maintain a high rate of scientific publication.
Present research findings at academic conferences.
Contribute to research, laboratory activities and the development of ecological engineering solutions.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following requirements:
– PhD route: A PhD in Microbiology and Biotechnology or a related field at NQF Level 10 for a permanent appointment.
OR
Master’s degree route: A Master’s degree in Microbiology and Biotechnology or a related field at NQF Level 9. This route offers a five-year contract appointment, during which the candidate must obtain a relevant doctoral degree at NQF Level 10 to qualify for conversion to permanent appointment.
Demonstrated experience in the industrial application of wastewater-treatment microalgae, specifically C. vulgaris and C. protothecoides.
Experience in microbial and viral population analysis.
Experience in DNA and RNA extraction and sequencing.
Experience in microbiome library construction and database analysis.
Experience using scanning electron microscopy.
Recommended Qualifications and Experience
The following will be advantageous:
Proven experience in data quality control and data monitoring.
Experience conducting project-specific research.
Experience in laboratory maintenance.
An MSc in Medicine specialising in Vaccinology. Applicants should attach a copy if they hold this qualification.
Required Skills and Competencies
Research and analytical skills: Ability to conduct scientific research, analyse complex data and contribute to innovative ecological engineering solutions.
Results orientation: Ability to complete tasks, overcome obstacles and take responsibility for deliverables.
Strategic thinking: Strong attention to detail, organisation and the ability to manage multiple activities.
Technical skills: Competence in laboratory research, molecular analysis and data processing.
Leadership: Ability to take initiative, provide guidance and support postgraduate research projects.
Teamwork: Ability to collaborate with colleagues and encourage cooperation.
Communication skills: Ability to present scientific findings, publish research and teach postgraduate students.
Compliance: Ability to follow institutional rules, laboratory procedures and workplace regulations.
Computer literacy: Proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Salary and Benefits
The salary is available on request.
Benefits, subject to applicable conditions, include:
Pension scheme
Medical aid scheme
Group life insurance
Housing allowance
Annual leave and sick leave
Service bonus
Study benefits
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through the official University of the Free State vacancy website.
Application portal: Apply via the official UFS vacancy website
Required Documents
Applicants must submit:
A detailed Curriculum Vitae (CV).
Copies of qualifications or official proof of qualifications obtained.
SAQA accreditation for foreign qualifications, where applicable.
A copy of a South African ID or passport for foreign nationals.
Proof of current or most recent employment, such as an appointment letter, employment contract, service certificate or recent payslip (external applicants only).
Relevant supporting qualification documents, including the MSc in Medicine in Vaccinology if applicable.
Important application notes:
The application system permits a maximum of eight attachments. Combine documents into fewer files where necessary.
Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Only applicants who meet the inherent requirements will be considered.
Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you are not contacted within six weeks after the closing date, you may assume your application was unsuccessful.
The UFS reserves the right not to fill the position.
Enquiries
Telephone: 051 401 9813
Email: PhokaR@ufs.ac.za
Additional application assistance: 051 401 7659 / 051 401 2979