Scope of Research: All species are part of complex ecosystems with multiple levels of interaction and interdependence. While broad categories of interaction such as mutualism and competition have been well defined and studied in macroscopic ecosystems, our understanding of the dynamics within microbial ecosystems remains limited. While microbial ecosystems are considered to be more robust and have broader capabilities than traditional single species systems, they are harder to control and molecular insights into how these ecosystems are established and maintained, as well as interaction specific effects are poorly understood. To better understand how biotechnologically important microorganisms such as yeast and microalgae communicate, and to identify interaction specific molecular signatures, we invite applications from dynamic, highly motivated and committed researchers who would like to be part of a diverse team of researchers focused on investigating microbial interactions. The projects will build on existing genomic and transcriptomic datasets exploring physical and metabolic interactions between yeast-yeast and yeast-microalgae ecosystems. Two positions are currently available.
Requirements and/or applicable skills:
• PhD in Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Microbial Ecology or a related field, obtained within the past five years.
• Experience in basic bioinformatics – including genomic (SNP analysis, genome annotation) and transcriptomic (RNASeq) data analysis.
• Experience in experimental molecular biology.
• Good writing and organisational skills.
• Evidence of publications/research outputs in the fields of microbiology, molecular biology, microbial ecology, or a related discipline.
• Ability to collaborate effectively and work well in a team.
• Ability to work autonomously and to meet deadlines.
Responsibilities
• Co-supervision of postgraduate students.
• Contribute to project administration including progress reporting to funders.
• Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals.
• Present work at research forums, conferences, and industry events.
• Assist with laboratory management.
Commencement of duties: January 2024
Closing date: 10 December 2023
Enquiries: Send a letter of application, accompanied by a comprehensive curriculum vitae, including list of publications and the names and contact details of at least two referees, to Prof. Florian Bauer, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Annual renumeration of a minimum of R350 000 is available, subject to renewal for an additional year if satisfactory
progress is made.
Please note that postdoctoral fellows are not appointed as employees, and their fellowships are awarded tax-free. They are therefore not eligible for employee benefits.
Florian F Bauer
Distinguished Professor in Wine Biotechnology and South African Research Chair in Integrated Wine Sciences
Tel: int27 (0)21 8084346
Please request that referees forward confidential reports by the closing date directly to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
