Are you a passionate and driven individual looking to further your academic career in molecular biology? Wits Health Consortium is offering an exciting PhD Bursary opportunity to join a cutting-edge research team!
About the Opportunity
Job Title: Doctor of Philosophy Bursary
Company: WITS HEALTH CONSORTIUM
Division: HIV Molecular
Type: Temporary
Location: University of the Witwatersrand, Parktown
Closing Date: 14 August 2026
Advert Reference Number: PhD Bursary
Main Purpose of the Job
Join a cutting-edge, multidisciplinary, international research team, gaining hands-on experience in molecular biology, nanotechnology, and translational biomedical research.
Key Performance Areas (Responsibilities)
- Conduct laboratory research on nanoparticle formulation and optimisation, and protein expression.
- In vitro protein expression and validation of nanoparticle delivery using mammalian cell lines.
- Collaborate with interdisciplinary teams in virology, immunology, and nanotechnology.
- Present findings at group meetings, conferences, and collaborator progress meetings.
Required Minimum Education and Training
- Master’s degree in Molecular Biology, Biochemistry, Virology, Immunology, or related fields.
Required Minimum Work Experience
- No work experience required.
Department
HIV Pathogenesis Research Unit, University of the Witwatersrand, South Africa.
Desirable Additional Education, Work Experience, and Personal Abilities
- 2 years’ experience in a molecular biology laboratory or equivalent.
- Mammalian cell culture/aseptic technique.
- Nucleic acid (DNA/RNA) handling and manipulation techniques.
- Protein expression, purification, and characterisation.
- Experience with in vivo animal models (e.g., Pharmacokinetics, biodistribution, efficacy studies).
- Familiarity with immunological assays.
Application Instructions
If you are interested in applying for this vacancy, please send an email to vacancies33@witshealth.co.za. The subject heading of the email must read PhD Bursary – Doctor of Philosophy Bursary and the job title of position applying for. Please include the following documentation:
- A cover letter (maximum one page) that clearly states which vacancy you are applying for.
- A detailed CV.
In accordance with our Employment Equity goals and plan, preference will be given to suitable applicants from designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act 55 of 1998 and subsequent amendments thereto. Wits Health Consortium will only respond to shortlisted candidates. Candidates who have not been contacted within two weeks of the closing date can consider their applications unsuccessful.