POST-DOCTORAL FELLOW - VIROLOGY (THREE (3) YEAR FIXED TERM CONTRACT)
The Agricultural Research Council
2024/08/14   Roodeplaat

Job Reference Number: ARC-PHP064
Department: 06 - PPRI
Industry: Research
Job Type: Contract
Positions Available: 1
Salary: Market Related
The ARC-Plant Health and Protection (ARC-PHP) seeks to appoint a highly skilled, experienced and dynamic person to the following position at Roodeplaat, Pretoria.
Job Description
  • Generate banana mutants using vector-based CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing to target virus susceptibility genes, and explore ribonucleoprotein-based approaches.
  • Guide RNA design, in vitro Cas9 cleavage assays, T-DNA vector construction.
  • Embryogenic cell suspension culture and Agrobacterium-mediated plant transformation.
  • Molecular analysis of target genes using PCR, Sanger and high-through put sequencing.
  • Conduct reporter gene assays and transient expression studies.
  • Screen banana mutants for virus resistance.
  • Support MSc and PhD students.
  • Publish in reputable journals and present at scientific congresses.
Job Requirements
  • PhD in Plant Biotechnology/Plant pathology or related field.
  • Experience with tissue culture (somatic embryogenesis), Agrobacterium-mediated transformation and CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in plants is mandatory.
  • Experience in plant virology is desirable.
  • Proven record of publications of scientific papers.

Enquiries: Dr. Tendekai Mahlanza (012) 808-8195

CLOSING DATE FOR APPLICATIONS: 28 AUGUST 2024

Competitive remuneration package will be congruent with the scope, responsibilities, and the stature of the position. The appointment will be subject to a positive security clearance and preference will be given to designated groups in terms of the ARC Employment Equity Plan. The Agricultural Research Council is an equal opportunity employer and is committed to the principles and processes of Employment Equity Act. Applications accompanied by covering letter, detailed CV (Including certified copies of certificates, supporting documents, copy of driver’s license) must be attached on the form.

NB: Non-RSA citizens with work permit must attach certified copies as well as the names and particulars of three (3) traceable referees.

SAQA evaluation report must accompany foreign qualifications. Incomplete applications will not be considered. Applicants who do not receive any response four (4) weeks after the closing date must regard their applications as unsuccessful. The company has the right not to appoint.