Job Description

KINDLY TAKE NOTE: Applications may only be submitted online through the official UFS vacancy website: - Applications submitted through any other platform will not be considered. The system allows a maximum of eight attachments. To avoid upload issues, we recommend merging some or all documents into fewer files before submitting.
Duties and responsibilities:

• Design and operate large-scale outdoor microalgal cultivation systems, specifically in large raceway ponds and large bioreactors with a total capacity of more than 40 000 litres.
• Develop protocols for the recovery of high-value compounds from microalgae with specific focus on vegan food applications.
• Responsible for the large-scale extraction process and downstream purification of high-value components.
• Implement strategies to minimize production costs, including developing low-cost cultivation media and improving outdoor bioreactor operation conditions.
• Explore innovative research strategies to treat wastewater with microalgae while achieving high bioremediation efficiencies.
• Lead and contribute to high-impact research projects including sustainable bioprocess engineering, advanced algal production, biofuel production and commercial production of valuable components of microalgae.

Inherent Job Requirements:

• A PhD on NQF Level 10 in Algal Biotechnology/ Industrial Biotechnology/ Biosciences/ Bioengineering, or a closely related field.
• A minimum of two (2) years of demonstrated experience in the cultivation of microalgae on a large scale at micro algae outdoor plants.
• Demonstrated experience in the extraction of high-value components from microalgal biomass.
• Expertise in a range of analytical techniques, including Gas Chromatography-Mass Spectrometry (GC-MS), and the determination of various fuel properties (viscosity, density, cetane index) and wastewater parameters (TOC, COD, nutrients).
• Proven experience in the delivery of poster or oral presentations at conferences or equivalent activities.
• Evidence of manuscripts produced that have the potential to be converted or submitted for publication in accredited journals.
• A good academic record (attach a copy).

Recommendations:

• Three (3) years' relevant experience in managing a microalgae plant and downstream initiatives.
• Postdoctoral research experience in a microalgal research unit.
• A strong record of high-impact publications.

Competencies
Key Competencies Required:

• Results-Oriented:

- The ability to stick with tasks, not give up, and overcome obstacles in completing one's task.
- The ability to be reliable, responsible, dependable and to fulfil obligations.

• Strategic Thinking:

- The ability to deal with several activities at a time.
- The ability to focus on details, work towards perfection, and approach work in a neat and organised manner.

• Business Acumen:

- The ability to adhere to rules and strictly follow work regulations.
- Proficient in using MS Office.

• Leading:

- The ability to lead, take charge of situations, and offer opinions and directions to others.
- The ability to be cooperative with others, display a good-natured attitude and encourage people to work together.

• Building Coalitions:

- The ability to be sensitive and understanding to the needs and feelings of others.
- The ability to make decisions through consultation, collaboration, and working with close supervision.
Required Documents
INCOMPLETE APPLICATIONS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED!
To ensure your application is complete, you must submit ALL documents listed under the inherent requirements, as well as the following standard documentation:

• A detailed Curriculum Vitae.
• Copies of your qualifications, or official proof of qualifications obtained (If you hold foreign qualifications, please include SAQA accreditation).
• A copy of your identity document (South African ID or passport for foreign nationals).
• Confirmation of employment in the form of a letter, appointment contract, service certificate, or recent payslip from your current or most recent employer (applicable to external applicants only).

Assumption of duties:
As soon as possible.
Closing date:
18 January 2026
Salary:
The salary is available on request.
Fringe benefits:
(Subject to specific conditions): pension scheme, medical aid scheme, group life insurance, housing allowance, leave and sick leave, service bonus and study benefits.
Enquiries:
For enquiries, please feel free to contact me at 051 401 9813 or email at . Additionally, kindly contact 051 401 7659/2979 for assistance.
General:
The UFS is a designated employer and is committed to the pursuit of excellence, diversity, and redress in achieving its equity targets in accordance with the Employment Equity Plan of the University and its Employment Equity goals and targets. Preference will be given to candidates from the under-represented designated groups including candidates with disabilities. Our Employment Equity Plan is available at:
EEA13Report_UNIVERSITY OF THE FREE STATE FINAL SEP 2025.pdf
The University processes personal information in line with its obligations under the Protection of Personal Information Act (POPIA) and any personal information provided to the University will be treated as confidential and processed in accordance with the rights provided to data subjects under POPIA.
The University reserves the right not to fill the post. The UFS will only consider applications of candidates who meet all the inherent requirements of the position. Applications that are incomplete will not be considered. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only. Should you not be contacted within six weeks of the closing date for applications, you may assume that your application was unsuccessful.

Skills Required