Researcher: Ecological Engineering Institute of Africa (UFS) x1
Job Details
Job Title: Researcher: Ecological Engineering Institute of Africa (EEIA)
Job ID: 6621 (2301)
Company: University of the Free State (UFS)
Department: Faculty of Natural and Agricultural Sciences – Ecological Engineering Institute of Africa (EEIA)
Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State
Employment Type: Permanent, with a five-year contract appointment option subject to doctoral qualification requirements
Occupational Level: Junior Management
Salary: Available on request
Closing Date: 23 October 2026
Assumption of Duties: 1 January 2027
Job Description
The University of the Free State is seeking a qualified and experienced Researcher to join its Ecological Engineering Institute of Africa (EEIA) in Bloemfontein.
The successful candidate will conduct specialised research in microbiology, biotechnology, wastewater treatment and ecological engineering. The role focuses on microalgae bioprocessing, bioremediation, laboratory analysis and the development of innovative research solutions.
The Researcher will also support postgraduate research projects, contribute to funding applications, teach data-driven ecological engineering and publish scientific findings in academic journals and conferences.
Key Responsibilities
Maintain, improve and expand analytical research processes involving wastewater treatment algae, including C. vulgaris and C. protothecoides.
Develop innovative research strategies to improve the bioreceptivity of concrete 3D-printed biofilters for bioremediation.
Assist with research funding applications and related initiatives within the EEIA.
Provide technical advice and guidance to postgraduate students conducting ecological engineering research.
Teach the Data-driven Ecological Engineering module within the Postgraduate Diploma in Ecological Engineering.
Maintain a high scientific publication output.
Present research findings at academic conferences.
Conduct and support microbial and viral population analysis, sequencing and microbiome research.
Contribute to research data quality, laboratory maintenance and effective research project delivery.
Minimum Requirements
Applicants must meet the following qualification and experience requirements:
– A PhD in Microbiology and Biotechnology or a related field at NQF Level 10 for permanent appointment.
Alternatively:
A Master’s degree in Microbiology and Biotechnology or a related field at NQF Level 9 for a five-year contract appointment. The candidate must obtain a relevant doctoral degree during the contract period to qualify for conversion to permanent appointment.
Demonstrated experience in the industrial application of wastewater treatment algae, specifically C. vulgaris and C. protothecoides.
Experience in microbial and viral population analysis.
Practical experience in DNA and RNA extraction and sequencing.
Experience in microbiome library construction.
Experience in database analysis and scanning electron microscopy.
Recommended Requirements
Proven experience in data quality control and monitoring.
Experience in project-specific research.
Experience in laboratory maintenance.
An MSc in Medicine specialising in Vaccinology. Applicants who hold this qualification should attach a copy.
Required Skills and Competencies
Results orientation: Ability to complete tasks, overcome challenges and fulfil responsibilities reliably.
Strategic thinking: Strong attention to detail, organisation and the ability to manage multiple activities.
Business acumen: Ability to follow regulations and proficiency in Microsoft Office.
Leadership: Ability to take initiative, provide direction and encourage teamwork.
Collaboration: Strong interpersonal skills and the ability to work cooperatively with colleagues and students.
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
Leave and sick leave
Service bonus
Study benefits
Application Process
Applications must be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website. Applications submitted through other platforms will not be considered.