PhD Student – Medical Microbiology (TB Drug Resistance)

About the role

AHRI offers two PhD training positions in its Basic and Translational Sciences Unit, focused on medical microbiology. The project investigates drug-resistant tuberculosis (TB) and its risk factors, and is led by Dr Ndivhuho Makhado. Full funding is available for 40 months starting 1 November 2026, with registration with a South African university. The closing date is 23 October 2026.

Key responsibilities

• Investigate the prevalence of drug-resistant TB and associated risk factors.
• Study changes in phenotypic resistance and use whole-genome sequencing to map mutations conferring resistance, strain diversity and geographic spread.
• Characterize molecular changes linked to increased transmissibility, helping to guide TB control programmes and tailor treatment.

Required profile

• MSc degree in Biomedical Sciences, Medical Microbiology, Cell and Molecular Microbiology, Molecular Biology, Genetics or a related field.
• Practical experience and knowledge of mycobacteriology and microbiology laboratories.
• Ability to work independently and collaborate with other research groups.
• Personal qualities of collaboration, communication, analytical capacity and initiative.

Required skills

• Working knowledge of bioinformatics and genomics is a merit.

What we offer

• Full funding for 40 months, with a stipend depending on experience and following AHRI's scheme and NRF grades.
• Tax-exempt stipend for postgraduates.

To apply, attach a cover letter, a 1-2-page CV and academic records. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted.