The University of the Free State (UFS) invites suitably qualified doctoral graduates to apply for the Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026 in the Division of Virology, under the School of Pathology, Faculty of Health Sciences.
Application Closing Date: 14 November 2025
Location: Bloemfontein Campus, Free State, South Africa
Commencement: As soon as possible
About the Fellowship
The UFS Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2026 is a one-year contract, renewable for up to two years based on performance and funding availability. This opportunity is aimed at outstanding doctoral graduates interested in infectious disease research, translational protein science, viral immunopathogenesis, antibody/protein engineering, and diagnostic development.
The fellowship provides a platform for young researchers to gain experience in research and innovation within a higher education environment, under the mentorship of senior academics and in collaboration with international partners.
Value of Fellowship: R300,000 per annum
Duties and Responsibilities
Postdoctoral fellows will be required to:
- Publish at least three (3) DHET-accredited journal articles or book chapters per year.
- Initiate research projects and apply for external funding.
- Participate in UFS research and postgraduate activities.
- Mentor postgraduate students and contribute to academic development within the school.
Eligibility Requirements
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a PhD degree in Virology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Immunology, Microbiology, or a related field, obtained within the last five (5) years.
- Not hold any full-time salaried employment during the fellowship.
- Be willing and able to relocate to Bloemfontein for the duration of the fellowship.
- Be available for full-time, residential research at UFS (80% on-campus presence).
- Preference will be given to South African citizens.
Required Documents
Applicants must submit the following to Ms. Refentse Lebese via email at LebesePR@ufs.ac.za by 14 November 2025:
- Motivation letter (1–2 pages) outlining relevant expertise and experience.
- Comprehensive CV, including a list of publications and conference papers.
- Certified copies of academic transcripts and PhD degree certificate.
- Certified copy of ID document (or passport for international applicants).
- Contact details of two academic referees.
Contact Information
Enquiries:
- Prof Z.N. Makatini
- Tel: +27 (0)51 405 2834
- Email: MakatiniZN@ufs.ac.za
Employment Equity
The University of the Free State is committed to employment equity and diversity, giving preference to candidates from under-represented designated groups, including persons with disabilities.
Personal information is handled in accordance with the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA). Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If no feedback is received within six weeks after the closing date, consider the application unsuccessful.
How to Apply
Click here to view the full job advert and details: View Job Advert (PDF)
Submit your complete application by email to:
📧 LebesePR@ufs.ac.za