Researcher – Quantitative Wood Anatomy & Chemistry (Post Level 8)

About the role

The Department of Forest and Wood Science at Stellenbosch University seeks a senior researcher to lead innovative work on quantitative wood anatomy and chemistry, focusing on xylogenesis and wood formation in Eucalyptus. The position is based at the new IMPACT OAL research facility near Somerset West.

Key responsibilities

• Design and conduct cutting‑edge research on quantitative wood anatomy and chemical properties of Eucalyptus wood.
• Publish findings in peer‑reviewed international journals and present at conferences.
• Supervise MSc and PhD students, providing mentorship and guidance.
• Secure third‑stream funding through grant applications and collaborative projects.
• Develop and maintain regional, national, and international research networks with academia and the forestry industry.
• Participate in departmental and faculty activities as required.

Required profile

• PhD in Natural Science, Plant Physiology, Microbiology, Molecular Biology or a related bioscience.
• At least five years of post‑doctoral or professional experience in forestry, plant physiology or related research.
• Proven track record in establishing and managing large‑scale field and nursery trials with sensor‑based monitoring.
• Experience supervising postgraduate researchers.

Required skills

• Quantitative wood anatomy (QWA) techniques.
• Confocal Raman microscopy.
• Fluorescence microscopy.
• Quantitative image analysis.
• Sensor‑based monitoring systems, dataloggers, and ecophysiological instrumentation.

What we offer

• Three‑year fixed‑term contract on a modern research campus.
• Access to state‑of‑the‑art laboratory and field facilities.
• Opportunities for interdisciplinary collaboration and international exposure.