Stellenbosch University Postdoctoral Research Fellowship South Africa 2025

Are you a recent PhD graduate in South Africa looking to advance your research career?

The Stellenbosch University Postdoctoral Research Fellowship (PDRF) program might be the perfect opportunity for you.

This prestigious fellowship provides a supportive environment for promising researchers to refine their skills and contribute to cutting-edge research at a world-class institution.

The Postdoctoral Research Support Office (PDRSO) administers the Stellenbosch University Postdoctoral Research Fellowship program.

The PDRSO fosters a supportive and stimulating environment for postdoctoral fellows, providing guidance and resources to help them achieve their research goals.

About Stellenbosch University Postdoctoral Research Fellowship

The Stellenbosch University Postdoctoral Research Fellowship is a prestigious bursary program designed to support promising researchers in the crucial post-doctoral phase of their careers.

The program offers recent PhD graduates the opportunity to:

  1. Conduct independent research in their field of expertise under the guidance of a qualified academic supervisor (host).
  2. Gain valuable experience in research leadership and project management.
  3. Contribute to the ongoing research endeavors of Stellenbosch University.
  4. Develop their research skills and expertise in a supportive and collaborative environment.
  5. Enhance their employability and career prospects in academia or other research-intensive fields.

Stellenbosch University Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Eligibility Criteria

To be eligible for the Stellenbosch University Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, you must meet the following criteria:

  1. Be a recent PhD graduate (within the past five years).
  2. Not be employed full-time at the time of application.
  3. Be a South African citizen or permanent resident, or an international applicant with the appropriate work visa.
  4. Possess a strong academic record and a demonstrably strong research focus.
  5. Have a research proposal that aligns with the research interests of a potential host supervisor at Stellenbosch University.

Stellenbosch University Postdoctoral Research Fellowship Application Requirements

A complete Stellenbosch University Postdoctoral Research Fellowship application includes the following documents:

  1. A comprehensive CV outlining your academic background, research experience, and any relevant publications.
  2. Certified copies of your academic transcripts and PhD award certificate.
  3. A detailed research proposal that clearly defines your research objectives, methodology, and expected outcomes. Your proposal should demonstrate a clear alignment with the research activities of a potential host supervisor at SU.
  4. Two to three letters of recommendation from academic referees familiar with your research capabilities.
  5. A completed Stellenbosch University application form (available on the SU website).

How to Apply

Applications for the Stellenbosch University Postdoctoral Research Fellowship are submitted online through the Stellenbosch University online application portal.

You need to check the university website for specific application deadlines and any additional application requirements that may vary depending on the research field.

How to Contact

For further information and inquiries regarding the Stellenbosch University Postdoctoral Research Fellowship, you can contact the Postdoctoral Research Support Office via email at: [email protected]

Alternatively, you can reach the PDRSO by phone: +27 21 808 9111.

Stellenbosch University Postal Address: Stellenbosch University Private Bag X1, Matieland, 7602, Stellenbosch, South Africa.

Closing Date

The Stellenbosch University Postdoctoral Research Fellowship program typically operates on a rolling admissions basis.

However, certain deadlines might exist for certain research fields or supervisory positions.