Dear Staff and Students

Research is one of the key strategic priorities of the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), as articulated in the University’s Strategic Plan 2023–2032. The Plan positions UKZN as a leading international, research-intensive institution committed to advancing knowledge and delivering practical, evidence-based solutions to complex global challenges. UKZN prides itself on producing high-quality, impactful research across disciplines, supported by strong local and international collaborations, and seamlessly integrated into teaching and learning.

In line with this vision, applications are invited from suitably qualified South African candidates for a Postdoctoral Fellowship in the fields of toxicology, epigenetics and toxico-genomics, with a strong emphasis on mycotoxin research.  Knowledge on climate change and its effects on food spoilage will be advantageous.

 

Eligibility Criteria

Applicants must meet the following requirements:

• A relevant Doctoral (PhD) degree obtained within the last five years, and not previously funded by UKZN.
• Demonstrated expertise in toxicology (mycotoxin induced toxicity), epigenetics and/or toxico-genomics.
• Expertise in mycotoxicosis, its biological and metabolic effects in animals/humans.
• Demonstrated strong laboratory skills on epigenetic techniques in myco-toxicology

• Proven understanding of toxicogenomic approaches in toxin-induced biological effects in animals/humans.

• A minimum of three first-author publications in Q1-rated journals.
• Ability to contribute meaningfully to the high research productivity of the hosting School(s).

 

Roles and Responsibilities

• Conduct independent and collaborative research aligned with the hosting School(s)’s strategic priorities.
• Publish a minimum of two DHET/ISI-accredited research papers per annum.
• Mentor postgraduate students undertaking research projects in toxicology.
• Assist the PI in preparing national and international grant applications.
• Carry out duties, as assigned by the PI, consistent with a postdoctoral fellowship that comply with UKZN policies and codes of conduct.

 

Conditions of Appointment

• The fellowship is awarded for one year
• Renewal beyond the first year is contingent upon satisfactory performance and the availability of funding
• Postdoctoral Fellows are not appointed as employees of the University and therefore do not qualify for employee benefits
• South African citizens with the requisite skills will be considered
• Fellowship start date: March 2026

 

Application Process

Interested candidates should submit the following documents as one combined PDF:

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae
• Certified copies of academic qualifications
• Proof of South African citizenship
• A statement of research interests and demonstrated laboratory experience/skills
• Contact details of two referees (one of whom must be the doctoral supervisor/co-supervisor)

 

Applications should be submitted to:

Ms Kholeka Dlamini- Email: DlaminiK5@ukzn.ac.za

Closing date: 13 February 2026

 

Issued by the University Research Division