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SEFAKO MAKGATHO HEALTH SCIENCES UNIVERSITY (SMU) 
 


​RESEARCH AND INNOVATION DIRECTORATE 
 
SMU/NRF POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOWSHIPS ADVERTISEMENT 
 
The University’s strategy focuses on enhancing excellence in teaching and learning, growing research and innovation. To increase research productivity, the University strategically invests in areas with high potential to nurture excellence. Among other initiatives, the University actively recruit and attract postdoctoral research fellows, offering them opportunities to play a significant role in postgraduate student development and contribute to the generation of new scientific knowledge and innovation in their chosen research field while furthering their careers. 
Therefore, the Research and Innovation Directorate invites applicants with relevant doctoral degree to apply for the following postdoctoral research fellowship position:
  • Department of Biochemistry & Biotechnology: 
 
The candidate should be able to contribute towards co-supervision and publication of research articles in areas such as Phytochemistry, Molecular Biology (including cell culture studies), Enzymology and Biotechnology. Experience in operating and interpreting data from analytical techniques such as LC/MS (HPLC/MS, UPLC/MS), GC/MS and NMR 
 
The Role of Postdoctoral Research Fellow 
  • Conduct research on an approved research niche under the supervision of an Established Researcher. 
  • Publish a minimum of three research articles or generate at least two research output units annually. 
  • Co-Supervise postgraduate students and contribute to the development of the next generation of scientists in their field. The fellow is expected to successfully supervise and graduate at least two master’s student or three honours students during the duration of their contract. 
 
Value for support 
Postdoctoral Research Fellowship   
Value (R) 300 000 pa*
Duration 2 years**
Value is tax-exempt
** Subject to annual submission of a satisfactory progress report
 
Minimum Requirements: 
  • Applicant must have obtained a Doctoral Degree in Biochemistry within the past five (5) years at a South African higher education institution or hold an equivalent qualification from an international institution, as recognized by SAQA. 
  • The applicant must have a publication track record in the relevant research field. 
In addition, the applicant should: 
  • Be proficient in statistical analysis. 
 
Eligibility Criteria 
Applicants must: 
  • Be a South African citizen or permanent resident of South Africa 
  • Have obtained a doctoral degree 
  • Evidence of published research articles in peer-reviewed journals output 
  • Excellent oral and written communication skills.



​How to apply 
Please send the following documents: 
  • A motivation letter which summarises your relevant expertise and experience. 
  • Full curriculum vitae with a list of publications or other scholarly outputs. 
  • Certified copies (within the last 6 months), of ID/ passport academic transcripts and certificates; and 
  • A one-page summary of research interest. 
 
Applicants must be submitted to Ms Fulufhelo Malamatsho at researchcapacity@smu.ac.za before or on 15 August 2025. Enquiries should be sent to Prof Stanley Gololo at stanley.gololo@smu.ac.za or Tel: 012 521 4372. 
 
Late applications will not be considered. 
 
It is the applicant’s responsibility to have foreign qualifications evaluated by the South African Qualification Authority (SAQA). Failure to submit the requested documents/information will result in your application not being considered. 
 
The University reserves the right not to make an award.