There’s a limited‑time post‑doctoral fellowship worth R350 000 a year tax‑free for researchers who want to study fleas in Southern Africa. The deadline is 18 September 2026, so start preparing now. This opportunity is offered by Tshwane University of Technology and Stellenbosch University.
What the fellowship is
The programme is a joint research fellowship between the Department of Nature Conservation at Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) and the Department of Botany and Zoology at Stellenbosch University (SU). It funds a one‑year post‑doc position with a possible renewal for a second year, allowing the fellow to spend a year at each campus.
Who can apply
- Holders of a doctoral degree (PhD) in Zoology, Parasitology, Genetics, Molecular Biology or a closely related field, awarded within the last five years.
- Demonstrated research experience — peer‑reviewed publications in accredited journals.
- Practical skills in DNA‑sequence analysis and microbiome bioinformatics.
- A strong record of publishing research findings.
What you gain
- Tax‑free stipend of R350 000 per annum.
- Potential two‑year appointment (second year depends on performance).
- Mentorship from Prof Tshifhiwa Nangammbi (TUT) and Prof Conrad Matthee (SU).
- Hands‑on experience with phylogeny, taxonomy, microbiome diversity and pathogen screening of fleas.
- Exposure to One Health research that links animal, human and environmental health.
How to apply – step by step
- Prepare a detailed curriculum vitae that highlights research methods, publications and technical skills.
- Obtain certified copies of all qualifications (PhD and any other relevant degrees).
- Get a copy of your South African ID or passport.
- Write a one‑page motivation letter that explains why your background matches the flea project.
- Send all documents as attachments in a single email to both academic contacts:
nangambit@tut.ac.za and cam@sun.ac.za
Use a clear subject line, e.g., “Application – TUT‑SU Collaborative Postdoctoral Fellowship”. Double‑check that every attachment opens correctly and is named professionally.
Tips to strengthen your application
- Place your DNA‑sequencing and microbiome bioinformatics experience at the top of the CV.
- List peer‑reviewed papers that are directly relevant to zoology, parasitology, genetics or taxonomy.
- Keep the motivation letter concise (max one page) and avoid repeating the CV.
- Explain clearly how the fellowship fits your short‑ and long‑term research goals.
- Contact Prof Conrad Matthee (+27 21 808 3957) or Prof Tshifhiwa Nangammbi (+27 12 382 5337) only for genuine queries about the fellowship.
Final thoughts
This collaborative fellowship offers early‑career scientists a rare chance to work on a One Health project across two leading South African universities. If you have a relevant doctorate, a solid publication record and the required molecular‑biology skills, start assembling your application today and submit it before 18 September 2026. Good luck!