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DHET NESP (NURTURING EMERGING SCHOLARS PROGRAMME) IN BIOCHEMISTRY (2025)

The Department of Biochemistry at the University of Johannesburg (UJ) invites applications for an exciting opportunity as part of the Nurturing Emerging Scholars Programme (NESP). This initiative aims to develop the next generation of academics in the field of Biochemistry, with a strong focus on emerging technologies, sustainable research practices and academic growth.
Who are we looking for?
We are seeking exceptional candidates with an Honours degree in Biochemistry or a related field who demonstrate enthusiasm for pursuing a Master’s degree in Biochemistry. Applicants should be:

  • South African citizens under the age of 35.Academically excellent, having achieved a minimum of 65% in their previous degree.
  • Passionate about academic research and teaching, with an interest in areas such as bioinformatics, metabolomics, proteomics and other “omics” technologies.
  • Preference will be given to black South African females
Bioinformatics and Omics in Biochemistry-Based Research:

Bioinformatics in biochemistry-based “omics” research is an interdisciplinary field that integrates biology, computer science, mathematics and statistics to develop tools and methods for understanding complex biological data. Recent advancements in the field have incorporated technologies such as big data, data mining, machine learning, cloud computing, network analysis and the Internet of Things (IoT). These innovations align with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and enable groundbreaking approaches to omics studies, including: transcriptomics, proteomics, metabolomics, lipidomics and interactomics.

These “omics” technologies address critical challenges in Biochemistry and support Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), such as eradicating poverty (SDG 1), achieving zero hunger (SDG 2), improving health and well-being (SDG 3), quality education, (SDG 4), industry, innovation and infrastructure SDG 9, climate action (SDG 13) and life on land (SDG 15). At the University of Johannesburg, this research environment fosters innovation, encourages collaboration and positions students at the forefront of academic and industrial advancements in 4IR technologies.
The scholarship

The DHET NESP scholarship provides comprehensive funding, including
  • Living expenses and research-related costs for two years
  • A one-year paid internship

Scholars will also benefit from mentorship by senior academics and opportunities to engage in state-of-the-art research aligned with the Fourth Industrial Revolution (4IR) and Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Additionally, scholars will participate in departmental activities, including teaching and research initiatives.

What do we offer?
  • Access to cutting-edge research projects in Biochemistry.
  • A dynamic and supportive research environment with mentorship from leading academics.
  • Professional development opportunities through structured training programmes, including the Accelerated Academic Mentoring Programme (AAMP) and workshops offered by UJ’s Postgraduate School.
  • The opportunity to pursue an academic career while contributing to the department’s transformation goals and strategic vision.
To apply

Please visit the link and navigate down to opportunity 3 for the Biochemistry NESP scholarship https://www.ru.ac.za/dhetnespapplication/
For guidelines

Download the NESP SoP

For more information, please contact:

Dr Msizi Mhlongo
Heard of DepartmentTel: +27 11 559 4573 Email: mmhlongo@uj.ac.za
Deadline: Applications must be submitted by 28 February 2025
Join the UJ Department of Biochemistry and embark on a transformative academic journey in one of the most innovative and interdisciplinary fields of science!