PhD Student Job Opportunity at University of Cape Town Lung Institute

If you’re an aspiring researcher with a passion for environmental science, molecular biology, and community health, the University of Cape Town Lung Institute has a unique PhD Student Job Opportunity waiting for you. This exciting role is based in the Allergy and Immunology Unit (AIU) and focuses on aerobiology and DNA metabarcoding in connection with the SA CARES Project.

This opportunity offers not only a funded PhD position but also hands-on experience in cutting-edge research and community engagement. If you’re ready to make an impact on climate-driven health issues in South Africa, here’s everything you need to know.

About the University of Cape Town Lung Institute

The University of Cape Town Lung Institute is a globally recognized research hub specializing in respiratory health. Its Allergy and Immunology Unit focuses on understanding the relationship between environmental exposures and respiratory conditions, with a special emphasis on under-resourced communities.

The SA CARES project, central to this position, investigates how climate-induced aeroallergens affect respiratory health in vulnerable populations. This makes it an excellent opportunity to contribute to meaningful research that bridges environmental science, public health, and molecular biology.

PhD Student Job Description

As a PhD candidate in this role, you will immerse yourself in the cutting-edge field of aerobiology. Your research will explore the impact of airborne allergens, such as pollen and fungal spores, on respiratory health in South Africa.

Key areas of work include:

• Field-Based Pollen Sampling: Collect and analyze samples in various communities.
• DNA Metabarcoding Analysis: Use advanced molecular tools to identify plant and fungal aeroallergens.
• Community Engagement: Work closely with local communities to ensure the project’s relevance and impact.

What You’ll Gain

This position provides an exceptional opportunity to:

• Learn and apply DNA barcoding techniques.
• Collaborate with an interdisciplinary team, including postdoctoral researchers and community health workers.
• Gain practical experience in aerobiological data analysis.
• Make meaningful contributions to health research in the context of climate change.

Eligibility and Requirements

To qualify for this position, you need the following:

Educational Background:

• A Master’s degree in one of the following or related fields:
  • Aerobiology
  • Environmental Science
  • Molecular Biology

Technical Expertise:

• Experience with DNA barcoding techniques (preferably in plant or fungal species).
• Strong analytical skills and a willingness to learn new software for data analysis.

Personal Attributes:

• An interest in community-focused health research.
• Passion for studying the impacts of climate change.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to work in diverse teams.

Key Responsibilities

If selected, your role will include:

• Conducting fieldwork to collect aerobiological samples from different communities.
• Using DNA barcoding to identify allergens from plants and fungi.
• Collaborating with a multidisciplinary team of experts, including data analysts and health workers.
• Contributing to data modeling, research publications, and presentations.
• Participating in training workshops and community engagement activities.

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Application Process

What You Need to Submit:

1. Statement of Research Interest (1-2 pages):
   • Explain why you’re interested in this project.
   • Highlight relevant experience and goals.
2. Current CV:
   • Include academic achievements and relevant experience.
3. References:
   • Provide contact information for two academic or professional referees.

Deadline to Apply:

• All applications must be sent by 31 January 2025 to uctlirecruitment@uct.ac.za.
• Note: Only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. If you don’t hear back within 30 days after the deadline, consider your application unsuccessful.

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Why Apply?

This is a one-of-a-kind opportunity to:

• Conduct meaningful research on climate-driven health challenges.
• Work with a prestigious institution like the University of Cape Town.
• Build your career in a multidisciplinary and impactful research environment.

Please note: This position is not on UCT’s standard conditions of service.