Postdoctoral Research Fellow

The Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI) invites applications for a postdoctoral research fellow (PDRF) to join the Ndung'u laboratory. The fellow will contribute to a Gates Foundation-funded project investigating how HIV-1 diversity and evolution influence viral replication capacity, with implications for immunogen design.

• Lead and support research activities focused on identifying genetic determinants of HIV-1 replication capacity across subtypes and in chronological acute infection samples, and evaluating the effect of HLA-associated viral polymorphisms on viral fitness.
• Explore non-invasive biomarkers that predict the size and dynamics of the HIV-1 reservoir during long-term antiretroviral therapy (ART).
• Work closely with Dr Omolara Baiyegunhi and other team members across collaborating sites.

• PhD in immunology, virology, molecular biology, or a related field (completed within the past three years); an MD with relevant basic science experience may also be considered.
• Strong background in HIV immunology, molecular virology, T-cell biology, or chronic viral infections.
• Practical experience in virus or tissue culture, sequencing, and bioinformatic analysis.
• BSL-2+ or BSL-3 laboratory experience (required).
• Proficiency in immunological assays such as flow cytometry, ELISA, and Luminex.
• Skill in high-dimensional data analysis using FlowJo and R.
• Demonstrated publication record in peer-reviewed journals.
• Excellent communication, organisational, and teamwork skills.

• Access to state-of-the-art facilities, including BSL-2 and BSL-3 laboratories, high-parameter flow cytometry, and next-generation sequencing platforms.
• Competitive salary and institutional support for career development, conference participation, and international collaborations.
• Collaborative and multidisciplinary research environment with opportunities for engagement across SANTHE sites and other global partners.

AHRI is fully compliant with South African labour law and is committed to employment equity. This position is primarily open to South African or other African applicants, with a valid work permit desirable.