Lecturer in Forest Genomics & Bioinformatics

About the role

The Forestry and Agricultural Biotechnology Institute (FABI) at the University of Pretoria is seeking a Lecturer to strengthen its Forest Genomics, Enviromics and Climate Change Mitigation research niche. The successful candidate will join the Forestry Molecular Genetics – Eucalyptus and Pine Pathogen Interactions programme and contribute to both teaching and high‑impact research.

Key responsibilities

• Develop and lead research in forest genomics and enviromics within the FMG‑EPPI programme.
• Assist the programme director in academic leadership and curriculum development.
• Mentor and supervise postgraduate students.
• Foster internal collaborations across FABI and the University of Pretoria.
• Build and maintain international research partnerships.
• Secure third‑stream research funding and manage existing grants.
• Participate in departmental, faculty and university strategic initiatives.
• Contribute to FABI and departmental committees or task teams.

Required profile

• PhD in Plant Genetics, Bioinformatics or a closely related discipline (NQF level 10 or equivalent).
• At least two first‑ or senior‑author publications in ISI‑indexed journals focusing on genetics, genomics or bioinformatics.
• Proven experience in research mentorship at the tertiary level.
• Demonstrated teaching or tutoring experience at university level.

Required skills

• In‑depth knowledge of plant genetics, genomics and bioinformatics.
• Proficiency in the R computational environment.
• Experience handling large genomic datasets.
• Strong collaborative and communication abilities.

What we offer

• Access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratory and computational facilities.
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary and international research collaborations.
• Support for securing research funding and professional development.