Postdoctoral Researcher – iPSC‑derived Cardiac Organoids

About the role

The Biomedical and Molecular Metabolism Research (BioMMet) group at North‑West University is seeking a motivated postdoctoral researcher to lead the development and application of iPSC‑derived cardiac organoid models for studying the cardioprotective effects of rooibos‑derived bioactives in combination with conventional cardiovascular therapies.

Key responsibilities

• Establish, maintain, and optimise iPSC‑derived cardiac organoid and related disease models.
• Coordinate and support MSc and PhD students working on various aspects of the project.
• Provide technical training and mentorship in stem‑cell culture, organoid methodologies, and molecular biology techniques.
• Design, implement, and ensure quality of experimental workflows across multiple student projects.
• Investigate the effects of rooibos bioactives and standard cardiovascular drugs on cardiac function using organoid platforms.

Required profile

• PhD obtained within the last 5 years in Biochemistry, Cell Biology, Molecular Biology, Physiology, Pharmacology, Biomedical Sciences or a related field.
• Demonstrated experience with mammalian cell culture and advanced in‑vitro disease models.
• Strong publication record and ability to work independently while contributing to a multidisciplinary team.
• Excellent organisational, communication and project‑management skills.
• Interest in postgraduate supervision and research mentorship.

Required skills

• iPSC culture and organoid technology.
• Mammalian cell culture.
• Stem‑cell culture techniques.
• Molecular biology methods.
• Bioenergetics assays.
• Metabolomics analysis.
• Microscopy.
• Pharmacology and drug‑response studies.