Hey there, future research superstar! Are you a recent PhD graduate passionate about making a real impact in infectious disease research? Then listen up, because the **University of the Free State (UFS)** has an incredible opportunity that could be perfect for you!
We’re talking about the **UFS Postdoctoral Research Bursary 2026**, a fantastic chance for outstanding doctoral graduates to dive deep into cutting-edge research in fields like virology, molecular biology, immunology, and more. While officially a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, Bursaries Room brings it to you as a ‘bursary’ because it offers significant financial support to fuel your groundbreaking work!
Who Can Apply?
Alright, let’s get down to who’s eligible for this awesome opportunity. You’ll need to tick a few boxes:
- You must have a **PhD degree** in Virology, Biochemistry, Molecular Biology, Immunology, Microbiology, or a related field.
- Your PhD should have been obtained within the last **five (5) years**.
- This is a full-time research commitment, so you cannot hold any other full-time salaried employment during the fellowship.
- You need to be ready and able to **relocate to Bloemfontein** and be available for full-time, residential research at UFS (think 80% on-campus presence).
- While all qualified candidates are encouraged to apply, **South African citizens** will be given preference.
What Does It Cover?
This isn’t just a research gig; it’s a springboard for your career! Here’s what the UFS Postdoctoral Research Bursary offers and what’s expected of you:
- **Funding:** You’ll receive a generous **R300,000 per annum** to support your research and living expenses.
- **Duration:** It’s a one-year contract, with the potential to be renewed for up to two years based on your stellar performance and funding availability.
- **Research & Innovation:** You’ll gain invaluable experience in a dynamic higher education environment, mentored by senior academics and collaborating with international partners. You’ll focus on exciting areas like infectious disease research, translational protein science, viral immunopathogenesis, and diagnostic development.
- **Impact:** Get ready to publish! Successful fellows are expected to publish at least **three (3) DHET-accredited journal articles or book chapters per year**. You’ll also initiate new research projects and apply for external funding – boosting your profile significantly.
- **Growth:** You’ll participate in UFS research and postgraduate activities and even get to mentor postgraduate students, contributing to academic development within the school.
How to Apply?
Ready to jump in? Here’s how you can throw your hat into the ring for this incredible UFS Postdoctoral Research Bursary:
First, make sure you gather all these essential documents:
- A **motivation letter** (1–2 pages) detailing your expertise and experience relevant to the research areas.
- Your comprehensive **CV**, including a full list of your publications and conference papers.
- **Certified copies** of your academic transcripts and your PhD degree certificate.
- A **certified copy** of your ID document (or passport if you’re an international applicant).
- The contact details of **two academic referees** who can vouch for your research prowess.
Once you have everything ready, you need to submit your complete application by **email** to:
📧 LebesePR@ufs.ac.za
The **closing date for applications is 14 November 2025**, so don’t delay! You can also view the full job advert and details in PDF format here: View Job Advert (PDF)
For any enquiries, you can contact **Prof Z.N. Makatini** at Tel: +27 (0)51 405 2834 or Email: MakatiniZN@ufs.ac.za.
The University of the Free State is dedicated to employment equity and diversity, giving preference to candidates from under-represented designated groups, including persons with disabilities. Your personal information will be handled securely in accordance with POPIA. Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted, so if you don’t hear back within six weeks after the closing date, please consider your application unsuccessful.
If this sounds like the perfect next step for your research journey, don’t wait — apply now and explore more amazing bursaries on Bursaries Room!

