27/10/2025
1 × PhD and 2 × MSc Scholarship Opportunities
Project Description
A fully funded PhD and two masters positions are available at the University of Mpumalanga through the VLIR-UOS TEAM project titled: "Enhancing African leafy vegetables nematode management and capacity building in research-based education to improve the livelihood of smallholder farming communities in South Africa." This collaborative, multi-institutional initiative aims to strengthen research, education, and extension capacity in plant nematology. The research focuses on minimizing yield losses caused by nematodes in indigenous leafy vegetables with a significant potential of improving food security and nutrition in rural South African communities.
The project seeks to develop efficient, low-cost, environmentally friendly, and sustainable nematode management strategies.
Bursary Details
PhD position MSc position
- Tax-free bursary of R160,000 per annum
- Duration: 3 years
- Project running costs are covered.
- Start Date: January 2026
- Tax-free bursary of R135,000 per annum
- Duration: 2 years
- Project running costs are covered.
- Start Date: January 2026
Candidate Profile & Requirements
- Master's degree in Nematology or equivalent in Agriculture or Life Sciences.
- Enthusiastic and motivated individuals capable of handling fieldwork, lab work, and microscopy.
- Excellent organizational, writing, and presentation skills.
- Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team.
- Prior experience in nematology is highly recommended.
- Experience in the design, implementation, and/or management of greenhouse and/or field trials.
- Evidence of research outputs (e.g., publications, conference presentations, or equivalent contributions) will be considered an advantage.
- Four-year BSc or BSc Honours degree in Nematology or Agriculture equivalent.
- Enthusiastic and motivated individuals capable of handling fieldwork, lab work, and microscopy.
- Excellent organizational, writing, and presentation skills.
- Ability to work independently and within a multidisciplinary team.
- Prior experience in nematology is a strong advantage.
PhD research topic:
Damage potential of root-knot nematodes on African leafy vegetables. Development of efficient and sustainable practices for the management of root-knot nematodes on African leafy vegetables.
MSc 1 research topic:
Host response of African leafy vegetables to infection by root-knot nematodes.
MSc 2 research topic:
Effect of organic amendments on the reproductive and damage potential of root-knot nematodes on African leafy vegetables.
Application Process
To apply, please submit:
• A cover letter outlining your research interests, relevant experience, and motivation for applying for this specific project.
• A clear and updated CV.
• Full academic transcripts for all undergraduate and/or postgraduate degrees.
• Contact details for at least two academic references.
• Deadline: November 21, 2025
Applications and all inquiries must be sent to: Email submissions to: [email protected]