Postdoctoral Researcher

North-West University / Noordwes-Universiteit; Potchefstroom; On-site; ZAR 300 000 - 400 000; Full time

Job summary

A prestigious research university invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to study mitochondrial diseases. The role involves using iPSC models to investigate complex I deficiency, requiring a recent PhD in Biochemistry, expertise in bioenergetics or metabolomics, and a strong publication record. The position offers competitive funding for 1 to 3 years, with responsibilities including iPSC culturing, data analysis, and supervision of students. Interested candidates should apply via email before the closing date of 15 February 2026.

Benefits

Competitive scholarship for 1 to 3 years

Opportunities for professional development

Qualifications

• PhD awarded in the last 5 years in a relevant field.
• Experience in culturing and differentiating iPSCs.
• Strong interest in drug screening and therapeutic development.

Responsibilities

• Culturing iPSC lines and modeling mitochondrial dysfunction.
• Troubleshooting specialized bioenergetic equipment.
• Preparing and publishing research proposals and papers.
• Delivering presentations at conferences.
• Supervising postgraduate students and contributing to classes.

Skills

iPSC culturing

Differentiation

Bioenergetics

Metabolomics

Microscopy

Publication record

Education

PhD in Biochemistry or related field

Tools

O2k-FluoRespirometer

Seahorse XF Analyser

GC/LC-MS

Job description

Post-doctoral position in mitochondrial disease research using iPSC models

Biomedical and Molecular Metabolism Research (BioMMet) at the North-West University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow to contribute to the research and training activities of the Mitochondria Research Group.

We are seeking a highly motivated post-doctoral researcher to join our team studying mitochondrial diseases. This exciting opportunity will involve using iPSC models to investigate the cellular consequences of complex I deficiency. The successful candidate will differentiate iPSCs into various cell types and organoids, while utilising a range of cutting‑edge techniques, including bioenergetics assays (O2k-FluoRespirometer, Seahorse XF Analyser), multi‑platform metabolomics (LC/GC‑MS, NMR), and immunofluorescent microscopy. In addition, the successful candidate will play a key role in using these iPSC models to develop novel treatment options for mitochondrial disease. This position offers a unique opportunity to make meaningful contributions to both disease understanding and the development of future therapies.

Core Requirements

• PhD in Biochemistry or related field obtained in the last 5 years.
• Experience in iPSC culturing and differentiation.
• Expertise in bioenergetics, metabolomics, and/or microscopy is desirable.
• Interest in drug screening and therapeutic development is a plus.
• Strong publication record.
• Must be able to work independently and in a team.

Responsibilities

• Culturing of iPSC lines and differentiation into various relevant cell types and organoids to model mitochondrial dysfunction.
• Operate and troubleshoot specialised equipment (GC/LC‑MS, O2k-FluoRespirometer, Seahorse XF Analyser); recognise and implement quality control measures where needed.
• Prepare samples, develop assays, analyse data, report results and modify/adapt methodologies as required.
• Prepare research proposals, reports and manuscripts; develop and deliver oral presentations at one or more conferences.
• Write and publish papers using existing as well as own data.
• Contribute to efficient operation of the laboratory working environment by carrying out general lab duties, such as replenishing common solutions or supplies, tidying common areas, or maintaining common equipment.
• As part of the candidate’s professional development, supervision of postgraduate students and contribution to undergraduate classes (maximum of 20%) will be required.

Scholarship

A competitive scholarship is available to the post‑doctoral fellow for 1 to 3 years renewed annually, conditional on satisfactory academic progress.

Application Requirements

• A letter of interest/introduction (max 1 page) in which the candidate motivates why they are suitable for this position.
• A CV including details of conferences presentations and all publications.
• The names and email addresses of at least three academics who have agreed to stand as referees on behalf of the applicant.
• Certified copies of academic transcripts (these can be sent later, if the candidate’s application is successful).

Email applications to:

Prof Roan Louw ([e-mail])

Director: BioMMet

North-West University, South Africa

Closing date: 15 February 2026