Nrf Funded Postdoctoral Researcher: Microbiology

The Agricultural Research Council; Pretoria; On-site; ZAR 400 000 - 800 000; Full time

Job summary

An agricultural research organisation in South Africa seeks a postdoctoral researcher in microbiology. The role involves conducting advanced research on dry anaerobic digestion, developing protocols for renewable energy, and contributing to capacity building through mentoring. A PhD and strong expertise in relevant fields are required. Competitive remuneration will be offered, and the closing date for applications is 30 October 2025.

Qualifications

• Strong expertise in anaerobic digestion, renewable energy, and/or applied microbial biotechnology.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and publish in high-impact journals.
• Valid driver's licence (code 08/EB) required.

Responsibilities

• Conduct advanced research on dry anaerobic digestion of agricultural residues.
• Develop and optimise protocols for integrating biochar and AD for renewable energy.
• Engage with farmers and stakeholders to support technology transfer.
• Mentor students and facilitate training activities.

Skills

Anaerobic digestion expertise

Microbial genomics

Communication skills

Bioinformatics

Research publication

Education

PhD in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Environmental Science

Job description

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nrf funded postdoctoral researcher: microbiology

R400000 - R800000 per year • The Agricultural Research Council

Posted today

Job Description

• Conduct advanced research on dry anaerobic digestion (AD) of agricultural residues, including microbial, biochemical, and engineering aspects.
• Develop and optimise protocols for integrating biochar and AD for renewable energy and soil health benefits.
• Carry out microbial community and genomic analyses to identify functional drivers in dry AD systems.
• Collect and analyse laboratory data on AD and digestate applications.
• Prepare scientific publications, policy briefs, technical reports and presentations aligned with SDGs (energy, climate, agriculture).
• Engage with farmers, stakeholders and international partners to support technology transfer and adoption.

Contribute to capacity building by mentoring students and facilitating training activities.

PhD in Microbiology, Biotechnology, Environmental Science or related field.

• Strong expertise in anaerobic digestion, renewable energy, and/or applied microbial biotechnology.
• Experience in microbial genomics, bioinformatics, and/or bioprocess optimisation is an advantage.
• Demonstrated ability to conduct independent research and publish in high-impact journals.
• Good communication skills (written and verbal), with ability to engage both academic and non-academic audiences and train students.
• Interest in science-policy interface and contribution to SDGs (energy, climate action, food security).

Willingness to travel for fieldwork and stakeholder engagement.

Valid driver's licence (code 08/EB).

Enquiries: Dr A Roopnarain; Dr H Rama.

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 30 OCTOBER 2025

A competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance (as well as competency and leadership assessments).

Preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act.

Applications accompanied by a covering letter, detailed CV with at least three recent (3) contactable referees, certified copies of certificates, supporting documents and a copy of driver''s license must be attached on the form.

A SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. Permanent appointments are subject to six (6) months' probation period. The organisation reserves the right not to appoint.