We invite applications for a full-time postdoctoral researcher to join the CryptoLab on a WellCome Trust-funded
project. The CryptoLab is a vibrant neuroinfectious disease laboratory in the Department of Human Biology, Faculty
of Health Sciences at the University of Cape Town. Research in our laboratory focusses on how fungal infections of
the brain cause brain injury. We are firmly embedded within the rich, research-intensive environment in the UCT
Neuroscience Institute and the Institute of Infectious Diseases and Molecular Medicine (IDM) and offer a unique
opportunity for a motivated individual to develop new skills, build a network of international collaborators, and
generate future funding for their independent research. The roles of the postdoctoral fellow will include leading and
contributing to neuroimmunology research and related admin, co-supervision of students, and teaching as part of
their own development into an independent academic. The available project requires skills in
neuroimmunology/molecular biology especially tissue culture and flow cytometry.
Requirements and Qualifications
- PhD, MD/PhD or equivalent in Neuroscience, Immunology, Microbiology, Infectious Diseases, Mycology
Molecular Biology, Biomedical Engineering or related fields, obtained within the last 5 years. - Evidence of peer-reviewed publications in their relevant research area.
- Demonstrated strong skills in immunology or molecular biology techniques especially cell or tissue culture,
flow cytometry, bioimaging and multiplexing. - Good programming/statistical ability (e.g., Python, R, MATLAB) and a good working knowledge of statistical
modelling would be an added advantage. - Excellent oral and written communication skills, ability to work effectively in a multicultural, interdisciplinary
team, and willingness to travel to the UK for collaborations.
Roles and Responsibilities: - Research: Lead a neurocytometry research project investigating cell-type specific responses to cryptococcal
infection of the brain using in vitro and in vivo brain tissue systems. Assist in project design and in the
development of future research projects and establishment of research collaborations. - Mentorship and collaboration: Provide mentorship and co-supervision for postgraduate students
(Honours/Masters/PhD). - Publication and Dissemination: Prepare scientific manuscripts, present data at national and international
conferences, and contribute to fellowship-relevant outputs. - Grantsmanship: Assist in securing future funding by contributing to grant applications and the
development of new project ideas.
Tenure and value:
The Fellowship comes with a tax free value of R450 000 per annum. The Fellowship carries no fringe benefits. The
fellowship is tenable for 2 years
The successful applicant must be available to commence with the Fellowship on 1 March 2025, or on a mutually
agreed start date.
To apply, please e-mail in a single pdf file the documents listed below to rachael.dangarembizi@uct.ac.za with
the subject Application: Neurocytometry Postdoctoral Fellowship - A letter of motivation outlining your research interests and why this position interests you.
- A full Curriculum vitae (CV) including academic qualifications, publications and relevant research
experience - Certified copies of all academic transcripts and degree certificates.
- Contact details of at least 2 referees (one of who should be your PhD or Postdoc supervisor)
Closing date: 31 January 2026