Note:  the student will be registered at UCT with Prof Trevor Sewell, with joint supervision by Prof Marla Trindade, who holds a DST/NRF SARChI research chair in Microbial Genomics at the Institute for Microbial Biotechnology and Metagenomics (IMBM), at the University of the Western Cape. IMBM is a leading research unit based within the Department of Biotechnology at UWC. The Institute is a global competitor in microbial biotechnology and metagenomics, and is committed to excellence in research and in the training of future research leaders. Its research encompasses a number of disciplines including microbiology, (meta)genomics, molecular biology, enzymology and bioinformatics, and employs culture-based approaches as well as cutting edge ”omics” strategies to study microbiomes, and identify novel biosynthetic gene clusters and metabolites. The Institute focuses on the research and development of novel, high-value natural products for the pharmaceutical, cosmeceutical, food & beverage and agricultural industries, as well as products for industrial processes.

Minimum requirements:

• MSc in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Biochemistry or an equivalent qualification. 
• Only South African citizens will be considered for the position.
• Experience in x-ray crystallography is a major advantage.

Applications should be submitted electronically to Prof Trindade and include the following: a CV including the contact details of at least two references; a letter of motivation; abstract from your Hons and MSc research projects; copies of your academic transcripts.  The due date for applications is 12:00, Friday 20 July 2018.  Only shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an interview. For any enquiries, please contact: