Postdoctoral Fellowships at CERI – Stellenbosch University


Join the cutting-edge research team at the Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI), Stellenbosch University! We are offering three postdoctoral fellowships in pathogen phylodynamics, disease ecological modeling, and machine learning for infectious diseases. Collaborate with top scientists, analyze large-scale genomic datasets, and develop innovative solutions to tackle infectious diseases at the intersection of genomics, epidemiology, and data science. This competitive, tax-free fellowship is based in South Africa, with opportunities for international collaborations.

Opportunities for Researchers in Pathogen Phylodynamics, Disease Ecological Modeling, or Machine Learning

The Centre for Epidemic Response and Innovation (CERI) at Stellenbosch University (SU), South Africa, invites applications for three (3) postdoctoral fellowships. These positions are ideal for researchers interested in pathogen phylodynamics, disease ecological modeling, machine learning for infectious diseases, or a combination of these areas.

About the Fellowship

Selected fellows will join CERIÂ’s Data Science Unit and work within the CLIMADE consortium, analyzing large-scale genomic datasets from Africa and beyond. The fellows will collaborate with a transdisciplinary team of leading researchers, receive hands-on training in genomic epidemiology, and be mentored by scientists who publish in top-tier journals such as Science, Nature, Cell, and The Lancet.

Location: CERI, Stellenbosch University, South Africa (with opportunities for fieldwork and international collaborations, e.g., University of Oxford) Duration: Up to 3 years Stipend: Competitive, tax-free fellowship

Eligibility & Requirements

Essential Requirements:

  • PhD (or equivalent) in a relevant field, obtained within the last 5 years
  • Expertise in at least one key area: phylodynamics, disease ecology, or machine learning
  • Proven experience in integrated infectious disease analysis and method development
  • Proficiency in Python, R, and geospatial data analysis
  • Strong publication record

Desirable Qualifications:

  • Research experience in climate change and infectious diseases
  • Experience working in transdisciplinary teams and leading projects

Application Process

  • Deadline: February 28, 2025
  • Apply Here: Click here to apply
  • Contact: Dr. Houriiyah Tegally, Head of Data Science Unit, CERI – houriiyah@sun.ac.za
  • Start Date: Flexible, based on candidate availability

Join us in advancing cutting-edge research at the intersection of genomics, epidemiology, and data science!

For more information: CERI and CLIMADE

News date: 2025-02-10

Links:

https://krisp.org.za/manuscripts/2025_Postdoc_advert_2025_Postdoc_advert_pathogen_phylodynamics_disease_ecological_modeling_or_machine_learning.pdf


KRISP has been created by the coordinated effort of the University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN), the Technology Innovation Agency (TIA) and the South African Medical Research Countil (SAMRC).


Location: K-RITH Tower Building
Nelson R Mandela School of Medicine, UKZN
719 Umbilo Road, Durban, South Africa.
Director: Prof. Tulio de Oliveira