Scope of Research: The successful candidate will conduct research on nitrogen metabolism of yeasts. The research entails conducting experiments using classical techniques in microbiology, enzyme activity analysis and gene transcription analysis. It is expected from the successful candidate to: submit at least one research grant application for 2023 and beyond and at least two peer-reviewed scientific articles per annum on the nitrogen metabolism of yeasts. The yeasts may include both clinically and industrially relevant species. The research will be conducted in the Botha laboratory in the Department of Microbiology on the campus in Stellenbosch.
All the equipment and infrastructure required to complete the research successfully are available to the successful candidate in my laboratory and the Department of Microbiology at Stellenbosch University (SU). The latter is a modern research and teaching facility. Nine independent research groups utilize shared departmental facilities such as walk-in fridges (4, 10, -20 degrees Celsius), walk-in incubators with shakers (27, 30 and 37 degrees Celsius), freeze dryers, Beckman centrifuges and an ultra-pure water purification system, as well a modern tissue culture facility. The Botha laboratory is equipped with all the equipment needed to conduct research using classical culture and molecular techniques in microbiology. The equipment includes the following: an autoclave, magnetic stirrers, a pH meter, fine balances, incubators, light microscopes and a fluorescence microscope, temperature-controlled centrifuges, water baths, PCR machines, as well a gel electrophoresis apparatus. Furthermore, the Central Analytical Facilities (CAF, SU) services are available to all postdoctoral fellows, students, and faculty staff. Their services include DNA/RNA sequencing, next-generation sequencing, gas chromatography, mass spectrometry, and high-performance liquid chromatography. CAF also provides access to several electron microscopes, modern fluorescence microscopes and flow cytometry units. In addition to the above, all staff and students have access to modern library facilities and internet services. All the above will be available to the successful candidate to conduct the study.
Requirements:
- PhD in Microbiology (must have graduated within the last five years)
- Publication record in mycology and/or microbial physiology
- Ability to independently write and edit scientific articles according to the standards set by reputable scientific journals.
- Expertise in bioinformatic analysis.
- Must have knowledge of microbial metabolism.
Commencement of duties: 15 April 2022
Enquiries: Prof A. Botha, Department of Microbiology, Faculty of Science, Stellenbosch University, Private Bag X1, Matieland 7602, South Africa. Email: This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..
Applications: A letter of application, accompanied by a comprehensive curriculum vitae, including a list of publications, as well as degree certificates, academic transcripts, and the names and contact details of at least three referees, should be sent to This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.. Merge all documents into a single PDF and attach it to the application. Applicants should request their referees to forward confidential reports directly to the same address by the closing date. Incomplete applications will not be considered.
Closing date: 25 March 2022 (The university reserves the right not to fill the position)
