About the position

We seek a highly motivated candidate with an academic background and documented experience in molecular microbial ecology research and bioinformatics. In particular the preferred candidate holds a strong expertise in bioinformatics (microbial genomics including metagenomics and metatranscriptomics) and molecular biological techniques. The post doc fellow will be involved in two research projects:

• Extreme environments as sources of bioactive compounds.
• Developing a bacterial consortium for improving the quality of mining-contaminated water.

The environmental microbiology group seeks to expand the knowledge of the microbial dark matter that inhabit extreme environments (e.g. underground mines, hot springs, saltpans, among others), which possess characteristics suitable for biotechnological uses. In particular, as a potential strategy for water bioremediation (microbial metal interaction) or because of their ability to produce novel bioactive metabolites (antimicrobial and anticancer compounds).

Job Type/Schedule

The postdoctoral position is full-time and works approximately 40 hours per week.

Department Name/Job Location

Environmental microbiology group, Department of microbial biochemical and food biotechnology, University of the Free State South Africa.

Your duties:

• Metagenomics and metatranscriptomics data analysis
• Develop and implement bioinformatics tools and pipelines.
• Prepare the resulting research findings for publication in peer-reviewed journals.
• Contribute to ongoing cutting-edge research projects.
• Support and supervision of PhD, Master and Honours students.

Your profile:

• PhD in bioinformatics, environmental microbiology (strong expertise in bioinformatics and biostatistics), or equivalent.
• Familiarity with working in Rstudio, Qiime II, Antimash and Phyton.
• Ability to write research reports and publications required.
• Good communication skills in English both spoken and written and motivation to work in an interdisciplinary team.

Salary Range

The contract will be R240 000 per year.

Contact person Dr Julio Castillo, This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it..