Mintek is offering a full-time, fixed-term contract position in the Bioprocessing Group of its Biometallurgy Division. As a Postdoctoral Research Fellow, you will be at the forefront of cutting-edge research in the fields of molecular biology and bioprocess microbiology. Your primary focus will be to support and enhance bioprocesses through the application of advanced molecular techniques and the study of microbial consortia in dynamic process environments.

This position provides an opportunity to develop your expertise further while playing a key role in the execution of pivotal research and development projects within the division. Additionally, you will have the chance to contribute to intellectual property (IP) development and provide training to junior staff members.

Key Responsibilities:

• Research Leadership: As a Postdoctoral Fellow, you will be expected to independently plan and manage projects, conduct research, and contribute ideas that push the boundaries of bioprocessing science. You will frame research questions, design experiments, and analyze results to address critical challenges in bioprocess microbiology and molecular biology.
• Molecular Biology & Bioprocess Research: The role involves hands-on laboratory work using molecular biology tools and techniques, such as PCR, DNA sequencing, gel electrophoresis, and primer design. You will also focus on the characterization of complex microbial consortia under varying process conditions.
• Collaboration & Training: You will collaborate with senior researchers and actively train junior scientific staff members, sharing your expertise to foster a collaborative and knowledge-sharing environment.
• Project Management & Quality Assurance: You will plan and manage research projects, ensuring the efficient use of time, equipment, and resources. Maintaining high-quality standards for research processes and ensuring that all work complies with safety, health, and environmental (SHEQ) protocols will be a key part of your role.
• Contributions to IP Development: Where applicable, you will contribute to the development of intellectual property, which could lead to new innovations in bioprocessing technology.

Qualifications and Experience Required:

• Essential:
  • A PhD in a relevant field (final thesis comments accepted).
  • At least 1-2 years of laboratory experience in microbiological and molecular research, preferably in the bioprocessing field.
  • A solid foundation in biological statistics and experience with molecular biology techniques (e.g., PCR, DNA sequencing, gel electrophoresis, microscopy, primer design).
• Desirable:
  • A background in computational biology will be considered an asset.

Required Documents: To apply, candidates must submit the following documents as a single file:

• A comprehensive curriculum vitae (CV), including academic records and R&D outputs.
• A certified copy of your doctoral certificate (or a letter from your university confirming that you have met all PhD requirements).
• A cover letter that outlines your motivation for applying for this position.
• Two reference letters, with one being from your PhD supervisor.

Salary Package: The salary package is negotiable based on qualifications and experience.

Application Deadline: The application deadline is 13 January 2025. Don’t miss your chance to be a part of one of South Africa’s most renowned scientific research organizations.

Location: This opportunity is based in Randburg, South Africa. Successful candidates will need to arrange their accommodation near Mintek and handle their own travel arrangements to the site.

How to Apply: To submit your application, please visit Mintek’s official application portal here. Ensure that all necessary documentation is provided by the closing date.

Mintek’s Commitment to Diversity: Mintek is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to promoting diversity and representativity in the workplace. The organization encourages applications from all qualified candidates, irrespective of gender, race, or background.

About Mintek: Mintek is South Africa’s premier research and development organization dedicated to supporting the minerals and metallurgy industries. With a focus on innovative solutions, Mintek plays a pivotal role in advancing technological capabilities in biometallurgy, mineral processing, and environmental sustainability.

If you’re ready to take your career to the next level and be part of a globally recognized institution at the cutting edge of bioprocessing research, apply for the Postdoctoral Research Fellowships 2025 at Mintek today.

Good luck! We look forward to seeing how you will contribute to the future of scientific research and development.