Senior Researcher - Veterinary Diseases at University of Limpopo

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements    
Applicants must meet the following minimum requirements:  

• A  PhD  degree  (NQF  Level  10)  in  Zoology,  Parasitology,  Veterinary  Diseases, Ecology, or a closely related discipline.  
• At  least  five  (5)  years  of  post - PhD  research  experience  at  tertiary  institutions,research councils, or relevant research organizations. 
• A  proven  track  record  of  sustained  research  output,  including  publications  in DHET - accredited journals and conference presentations.  
• Demonstrated   experience   in   postgraduate   student   supervision   at  Honours, Masters, and Doctoral levels.  
• Evidence of the ability to establish research collaborations and successfully raise research funds.  
• Proven ability to work effectively both independently and as part of a collaborative research team.  
• Evidence of community engagement activities in environmental - related projects.  
• A valid Driver's License; a Skipper's License will be a strong added advantage. 
• Demonstrated expertise in the following areas is essential:  
• Parasitology, with proficiency in identifying ecto -   and endoparasites from wildlife, especially aquatic species.  
• Aquatic  Ecosystem  Health,  including  knowledge  of  fish  diseases  related  to parasitic infections and/or pollution.  
• Molecular Biology techniques and analysis relevant to parasitological or ecological research.  
• Fieldwork  planning,  logistics,  and  execution,  including  laboratory  work  such as microscopy.   

Key Performance Areas   (Duties and Responsibilities)   

• Develop  and  lead  a  research  niche  in  Parasitology,  Ecology,  and  Aquatic Ecosystem Health for the department.  
• Plan and execute fieldwork surveys to collect samples and data, ensuring robust scientific methodology.  
• Analyse research data and translate findings into high - impact scholarly outputs.  
• Publish   research   findings   consistently   in   DHET - accredited,   peer -reviewed journals.  
• Present   research   at   national   and   international   conferences   to   build   the department's and Chair's academic profile.  
• Develop  fundable  research  proposals  to  support  postgraduate  training  and research activities.  
• Mentor,  advise,  and  supervise  postgraduate  students  (Honours,  Masters,  and Doctoral) in their research activities, laboratory practice, and academic projects.  
• Provide  guidance  to  junior  staff  and  students  on  research  methodologies, laboratory practice, and academic writing.  
• Actively  engage  in  community  outreach  programmes  related  to  environmental health and biodiversity conservation.  
• Contribute   to   the   department's   and   research   chair's   administrative   duties, including research management and reporting.