Postgraduate opportunities at UKZN: Green Nanoparticles
Nanotechnology is a field gaining critical importance due to the diverse applications of nanoparticles in a multitude of industries. The synthesis of nanoparticles can be carried out using chemical protocols, but these are problematic to the environment. Novel strategies using ‘green’ sources to synthesize different types of NPs of specific size and composition are being investigated worldwide. Green-synthesis nanotechnology offers a more cost effective and environmentally friendly solution. These biologically synthesized nanoparticles have application in several products that are of biotechnological importance.
In the Discipline of Microbiology at UKZN, we are currently interested in utilising microbial sources for nanoparticle synthesis and assessing their bioactivity potential for a variety of biotechnology industrial applications.
Together with the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA), a MSc bursary of R90 000 per annum, for a 2-year period only, is being offered for a Microbiology-Nanotechnology project. The MSc project will entail generating biosynthesized nanoparticles and assessing their bioactivity potential. There will be defined bioactivity and application project objectives that will be carried out to meet specific TIA milestones. The candidate will work as part of a TIA project group to meet the Green Nanotechnology project objectives.
Candidates with an interest in Microbiology and Nanotechnology are invited to apply for this position in 2022: Candidates with a background in Microbiology, Nanotechnology would be preferred, especially those with experience in nanoparticle physical and chemical characterization and/or strong Chemistry background.
Applications should include:
- CV
- Proof of qualifications
- (All applicants must be in possession of a BSc Honours degree in Microbiology/Biotechnology)
- Certified RSA Identity document
- Certified Academic record
- A detailed cover letter stating how you meet the requirements for the project, what you hope to achieve by reading for an MSc degree
- Names and contact details of two academic referees.
Based on above, students will be contacted for interviews before selection is made.
The deadline for applications is 21st February 2022.
Please address all correspondence to Prof. Hafizah Y. Chenia (This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.).
