Postdoctoral Research Fellowship – Indigenous Knowledge Systems

About the role

The Indigenous Knowledge Systems Centre at North West University seeks two post‑doctoral researchers to advance multidisciplinary projects on optimisation and development of Indigenous Knowledge (IK)‑based products for agriculture and health. The fellowship is fully funded, starts immediately, and runs for one year with the possibility of extension to two years based on performance.

Key responsibilities

• Conduct independent research as an investigator throughout all project phases.
• Publish at least two peer‑reviewed articles per year in international journals.
• Support capacity development by co‑supervising postgraduate students and collaborating with interns.

Required profile

• PhD awarded within the last five years in Indigenous Knowledge Systems, medicinal plant research, ethnobotany, ethnopharmacology or related biological sciences.
• Strong written and oral communication skills with a minimum of three ISI‑rated publications and conference presentations.
• Physical ability to perform laboratory and field work.
• Experience with analytical techniques, LC‑MS, in‑vitro and in‑vivo assays.
• Extensive knowledge of product development and nutraceutical research.

Required skills

• LC‑MS analysis
• Analytical chemistry
• In‑vitro assay development
• In‑vivo experimental techniques
• Product development
• Nutraceutical research

What we offer

• Fixed‑term contract with market‑related remuneration.
• Fully funded research environment at the Potchefstroom and Mahikeng campuses.
• Opportunities for high‑impact publications and professional development.