RESEARCHER

The research scientist will have the following responsibilities:

• Scientific support of ongoing and new research projects within the group

• Independent development, assessment, and application of novel approaches to analyse multi-omics datasets

• Preparation and contribution to peer-reviewed manuscripts

• Supporting and training of postgraduate students in data analysis and interpretation

• Contributing to grant applications, reporting, and budget management

• Fostering local and international collaborations and networks

• Contributing to the strategic development of the group's research programme

Requirements to apply:

• Academic qualification: The minimum requirement is a completed Master's degree in Human Genetics, Bioinformatics, or a related field.

• A completed PhD (Human Genetics, Bioinformatics, or a related field), or a PhD that is under examination or close to submission, would be preferred.

• Research experience:

o At least three (3) publications involving original human related research, of which the applicant is first author on at least one (1) publication.

o Demonstrated experience in analysing next-generation sequencing data, multi-omics data analysis, and genomic variant interpretation.

o Proficiency in Python, BASH and/or R; experience with Linux-based high-performance computing (HPC).

Recommended skills or experience that would be an advantage:

• Evidence of contributions to securing research funding.

• Experience in training junior researchers and postgraduate students.

• Ability to work both independently and collaboratively within a multidisciplinary team, with limited supervision.

• Experience working in a research environment on human related data.

Additional Details:

The position is offered on a fixed-term basis of five years, with the possibility of renewal subject to performance and funding availability. Salary will be commensurate with experience and will be graded in accordance with University of the Witwatersrand remuneration scale

Detailed Description

Job Requirements

Additional Details

How To Apply Closing date: 17 August 2026

Please submit the following documents on http://www.wits.ac.za/vacancies/ or for internal applicants https://irec.wits.ac.za

• A cover letter outlining your interest and suitability for the position.

• A detailed CV, including contact details, names, telephone numbers and email addresses of 3 referees.

• Certified copies of matric and degrees/diplomas.

• Certified copy of South African ID (or passport and work permit)

Please note:

Only applications via the website will be considered for shortlisting. An interview and assessment will form part of the selection process.

NB*: The University will seek confidential referee reports for all shortlisted candidates. At least one referee must be the candidate’s current or most recent immediate supervisor or line manager. No appointment will be made without the receipt and satisfactory consideration of the required referee reports.*

By applying for this post the Applicant acknowledges that their personal information will be processed by the University. The Applicant, by their conduct in proceeding with an application for this position, gives their consent to the processing of their personal information as required by the University’s Recruitment, Selection and Appointment Policy. Such processing includes logging their information on the University’s recruitment systems, conducting necessary background and reference checks including disciplinary and/or criminal records, and disclosing their personal information to university employees identified to take part in the selection and recruitment process. The Applicant consents to any processing of their personal information as may be required. The confidentiality of the Applicant's personal information will be maintained.

The University is committed to employment equity. Preference will be given to appointable applicants from the designated South African groups in terms of the relevant employment equity plans and policies of the University. The University retains the right not to make an appointment, to re-advertise, and to verify all information provided by candidates. Please note that correspondence will only be entered into with shortlisted candidates

The University is committed to employment equity. Preference may be given to appointable applicants from the underrepresented designated groups in terms of the relevant employment equity plans and policies of the University. The University retains the right not to make an appointment and to verify all information provided by candidates.

Please note that correspondence will only be entered into with shortlisted candidates. The University reserves the right not to make an appointment or to re-advertise.

Minimum Salary

Maximum Salary

Currency

Amount of Travel

Work At Home