Postdoctoral Research Fellowship (2 Positions)
Position summary
About our company
Introduction
Job description
We play a critical role in contributing towards the sustainable community livelihoods through knowledge and products generated by unlocking the potential of IK and promoting the recognition, development, protection and affirmation of the role of IK in the global knowledge economy (https://natural-sciences.nwu.ac.za/indigenous-knowledge-systems-centre/home).
We focus on multi-disciplinary research and actively collaborate with different institutions. We currently have DSTI-NRF SARChI supported project on Optimisation and development of IK-based products (agriculture & health) and their applications for bioeconomy and looking for 2 post-doctoral research fellows to join us.
This is a full-time Post-Doctoral Research Fellowship (PDRF, 2 Positions available) fully funded. The PDRF should commence IMMEDIATELY. This is a one-year position, but the contract can be extended for up to two years, subject to satisfactory performance during the previous year. The PDRF will work at Potchefstroom and Mahikeng of the North-West University at different phases of the project.
KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:
· Play an active role as an investigator in all aspects of the research project.
· Lead author of at least 2 papers/annum published in international accredited peer-review journals.
· Assist in capacity development at the NWU- through active interaction, co-supervision and collaboration with post-graduate students and interns.
Minimum requirements
- A PhD (obtained in the last five years) in a discipline related to Indigenous Knowledge Systems (medicinal plant research) and related fields in Ethnobotany, Ethnopharmacology, Biological Sciences
- Strong written and oral communication skills with a minimum of three (3) ISI rated publications in a relevant discipline as well as presentations at national and/or international conferences.
- Physical ability to conduct laboratory and fieldwork.
- Analytical and LC MS skills.
- In vitro and in vivo research experience.
- Extensive knowledge on product development & nutraceutical research.
Interested applicants need to submit the listed documents via email (25295322@mynwu.ac.za) with a subject line: Application for PDF at the IKS Centre 2026)
- A letter of motivation, detailing your relevant experience and research interests, current research activities as well as your interest in this project.
- Latest academic transcript.
- A CV including a list of publications and the names and contact details of at least two references.
- Copy of identification document or passport (with appropriate permit).
The closing date for applications is 19 June 2026 (close of business). Incomplete applications will Not Be considered.
The Post-Doctoral Fellow will be under the mentorship of Prof AO Aremu and enquiries regarding job content may be directed to (29219396@nwu.ac.za)
The University subscribes to and applies the principles of the Employment Equity Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the aforementioned Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan.
The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.
If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.