Research Fellow

This is a three-year contract research position based in Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, within the Institute for Water and Wastewater Technology, which operates under the Division of Research, Innovation and Entrepreneurship at a South African university of technology. The role is situated in the Department of Water and Waste Water Technology and focuses on the intersection of algal biotechnology and emerging contaminants, particularly pharmaceutical residues in wastewater. As a Research Fellow, the successful candidate will be expected to drive a dedicated research agenda while contributing to the broader intellectual life of the institute. This is not a teaching-heavy academic post; it is a research-intensive role aimed at producing measurable scientific outputs, building research capacity, and positioning the institute as a leader in phycoremediation and water quality innovation.

Applicants must hold a PhD in Biotechnology, Microbiology, or a closely related field, and must demonstrate substantial experience in algal biotechnology and phycoremediation. A minimum of five published journal articles is required, which underscores the research-intensive nature of the appointment. While not mandatory, strong preference will be given to candidates who have hands-on experience in microalgal bioremediation, advanced analytical instrumentation such as UHPLC-MS and GC-MS, and molecular biology techniques. These preferred competencies indicate that the role is not limited to conceptual research but involves laboratory-based investigation and the mentorship of others in sophisticated analytical methods.

The core duties are multifaceted. The Research Fellow is expected to publish at least two research output units per year, meaning consistent, high-quality scholarly production is a central performance indicator. The role involves designing and conducting original research on algal-based remediation of pharmaceutical contaminants in wastewater, a pressing environmental and public health concern. In addition to personal research, the fellow will train both students and fellow researchers in analytical techniques including HPLC, GC-MS, and related methods, thereby enhancing the technical skill base of the institute. The position also requires active participation in community engagement activities, which is a hallmark of an applied university such as this oneebb. There is a strong administrative and academic service component as well, including assisting with the preparation of grant applications, research proposals, presentations, and progress reports. Supervision and co-supervision of postgraduate students are expected, along with providing ongoing guidance, advice, and technical assistance to students and staff as they develop their own research capabilities. The fellow will also conduct both individual and collaborative research, meaning the ability to work independently and within interdisciplinary teams is essential.

The institution is committed to employment equity and transformation. While equal opportunities are strived for, preference in appointment will be determined in line with the university’s equity policy flags. The university also reserves the right not to make an appointment if no suitable candidate is found. This role is open only to South African citizens and permanent residents. Given the focus on wastewater, pharmaceutical contaminants, and algal biotechnology, this is an excellent opportunity for a postdoctoral-level researcher looking to build a career in applied environmental biotechnology, particularly within the South African higher education sector. The position offers a market-related salary and is situated in a dynamic coastal city with strong industrial and environmental research contexts. Candidates should be prepared to contribute meaningfully to the institute’s research output while also supporting the development of emerging researchers and the broader community.