The University of Fort Hare has opened its 2026–2028 Computational Sciences Postdoctoral Fellowship, and the deadline is fast approaching. This is a rare chance to join a cutting‑edge research team that models infectious diseases across multiple scales.
What the opportunity is
The fellowship lasts 24 months and is based in the Department of Computational Sciences, Eastern Cape, South Africa. You will work under Professor Dephney Mathebula on pure and applied mathematics projects that build multiscale models of disease transmission, host‑pathogen dynamics, and public‑health interventions. The role includes numerical simulations, data‑driven modelling, and possibly artificial‑intelligence tools.
Who can apply (requirements / eligibility)
You must hold a PhD awarded in the last five years in Applied Mathematics, Mathematical Modelling, Biomathematics, Computational Mathematics, or a closely related field. Candidates who have finished their doctorate but lack a final certificate must supply proof of completion.
At least three research articles must be published in DHET‑accredited journals. Your CV should list full citation details for each paper.
Preferred applicants are South African citizens or permanent residents, women, and researchers with a strong record in infectious‑disease modelling.
What you will gain
- R300 000 per year, tax‑free.
- Experience in interdisciplinary research with mathematicians, biologists, and public‑health experts.
- Opportunity to publish in accredited journals and present at national and international conferences.
- Hands‑on mentorship and the chance to support postgraduate students in the department.
- Skills in multiscale modelling, numerical methods, scientific computing, and AI/ML for epidemiology.
How to apply (step‑by‑step)
- Prepare a detailed, up‑to‑date CV that includes all publications with full citation details.
- Write a motivation letter of 2–3 pages covering your research background, relevant modelling experience, and how you match the fellowship.
- Obtain certified copies of your academic qualifications and proof of PhD completion.
- Gather copies of your three most recent DHET‑accredited journal articles.
- Provide contact details for at least three academic referees (name, title, institution, department, email, phone, and relationship).
- Email the complete package to MQelesile@ufh.ac.za, copying BSolini@ufh.ac.za or postdocs@ufh.ac.za. Use the subject line exactly: Pure and Applied Mathematics.
- Alternatively, upload the same documents via the official vacancy page: View the official University of Fort Hare fellowship vacancy.
Tips to improve your chances
- Highlight any previous work on infectious‑disease or multiscale modelling in your letter.
- Show clear examples of programming skills (e.g., Python, MATLAB, R) and software you have used.
- Ensure all PDFs are legible and properly labelled.
- Ask your referees in advance if they are willing to provide timely references.
- Proof‑read your motivation letter for spelling and grammar – simple language works best.
- Double‑check that the email subject line matches the required wording.
- Submit well before the 07 August 2026 deadline to avoid last‑minute technical issues.
Next steps
This fellowship is competitive, and meeting the minimum criteria does not guarantee selection. Review the requirements carefully, assemble a complete application, and send it before the deadline. If you have questions, email Professor Dephney Mathebula at DMathebula@ufh.ac.za and quote the vacancy reference EC000809.
Take the first step today – your expertise could help shape the next generation of disease‑control strategies.
