Associate Professor/Professor

The University of Cape Town (UCT) is seeking a highly qualified and experienced individual for the position of Associate Professor or Professor in Biochemistry within the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology. This is an excellent opportunity for a leading academic with a strong research background to contribute to cutting-edge research and shape future scientists.

About the Department of Molecular and Cell Biology

The Department of Molecular & Cell Biology (MCB) conducts vital research with economic, medical, environmental, and social impact in Africa and beyond. Our research focuses on areas like adaptation to environmental stress, microbiology, bioinformatics, and diseases affecting humans, animals, and plants. The department offers undergraduate majors in Biochemistry and Genetics, along with an Honours course in Molecular and Cell Biology.

We are specifically looking for a candidate with an outstanding research record in biochemistry to join our dynamic team.

Key Requirements for this Role

To be considered for this Associate Professor/Professor position, you will need:

• A PhD qualification in Biochemistry or Molecular Biology.
• A proven and continuous track record of internationally recognized research, published in reputable journals.
• Experience delivering oral presentations at international conferences.
• A demonstrated ability to secure research funding from national and/or international grant agencies.
• Excellent teaching skills in biochemistry.
• Extensive experience in developing biochemistry curricula.
• A successful history of supervising graduated MSc and PhD students.
• Experience in academic leadership, administration, and management.

Additional Requirements for Professor Level:

Candidates applying at the Professor level must also demonstrate:

• Clear evidence of international recognition for their research.
• An extensive track record of successfully supervising a high number of graduated MSc and PhD students.
• An established network of international research collaborations.
• Sustained leadership experience at a Faculty or University level.

Your Responsibilities

As an Associate Professor/Professor, your key duties will include:

• Designing and delivering biochemistry content for undergraduate and Honours courses within the MCB department.
• Overseeing and developing the curriculum for the biochemistry major.
• Supervising Honours, Master’s, and Doctoral students.
• Establishing and maintaining a productive research group and actively attracting research funding.
• Building collaborative relationships with other research groups within the department and faculty.
• Providing academic leadership within the department, Faculty, and University.

Salary Information (2025 Annual Cost of Employment)

The estimated annual cost of employment for 2025, including benefits, is:

• Associate Professor: R 1,378,741 per annum
• Professor: R 1,694,867 per annum

(Please note: The monthly salary range indicated in the application details is an approximation based on the annual figures provided.)

How to Apply

To apply for this position, please click on the “apply” button on the UCT careers portal to create a candidate profile and submit your application. Ensure you complete and attach the following documents to your profile before submission:

• A motivational letter that directly addresses the requirements of this position.
• Your comprehensive Curriculum Vitae (CV).
• A statement outlining your teaching philosophy and research interests.
• Details of three referees, including their title, name, position, relationship to you, email address, and telephone number.
• Proof of your highest qualification.
• A copy of your ID or Passport.

Important: An application that does not meet all the above requirements will be considered incomplete.

Shortlisted candidates may be required to undergo competency and pre-placement medical assessments. UCT may request references at any stage of the selection process.

For any enquiries regarding the application process, please contact Ms Tracy Moore at [email protected] or 021 650 5405.

Application Closing Date

Please submit your application by 18 September 2025.

Employment Equity Statement

UCT is a designated employer committed to pursuing excellence, diversity, and redress in achieving its equity targets, in line with the University’s Employment Equity Plan, goals, and targets. Preference will be given to candidates from under-represented designated groups. You can find our Employment Equity Policy at https://uct.ac.za/media/9482.

UCT reserves the right not to appoint.