National Health Laboratory Services (NHLS) Head (Associate Professor/Professor) Division of Medical Microbiology Vacancy 2026

Opportunity Overview

The University of Cape Town (UCT) and the National Health Laboratory Service (NHLS) invite applications for a permanent position as Head of the Division of Medical Microbiology within the Department of Pathology. This opportunity is based in Cape Town and requires a recognised leader in the field.

The successful candidate will lead, champion, and manage all key areas within the Division, including medical microbiology research, teaching, training, and social responsiveness, both locally and internationally. This role involves developing strategic plans, driving innovation, ensuring best practices, and providing academic leadership to advance the Division's scholarship and standards.

Minimum Requirements

• A recognised leader in the field of Medical Microbiology.
• A specialist Medical Microbiologist with a minimum of seven years of post-specialisation experience.
• Registered with or eligible for registration with the HPCSA.
• Demonstrated insight into opportunities for innovative diagnostic approaches relevant to South Africa and the broader African context.
• Demonstrated experience and ability in teaching, training, and research at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels, with evidence of effective supervision to completion.
• A strong research background, evidenced by a track record of international peer-reviewed publications.
• Demonstrated leadership ability across service and teaching platforms.
• Demonstrated evidence of insight into the challenges and opportunities for advancing healthcare through Medical Microbiology in South Africa and Africa.
• A proven track record of teamwork and the ability to build effective partnerships with internal, external, and international stakeholders.

Key Responsibilities

• Lead, champion, and manage all focus areas within the Division, including medical microbiology research, teaching, training, and social responsiveness, within South Africa and internationally.
• Develop strategic and operational plans in consultation with the Head of Department (HOD) of Pathology, the Dean FHS, Groote Schuur Hospital CEO, and NHLS CEO.
• Drive innovation and ensure best practices in all activities.
• Provide academic leadership to advance the Division’s scholarship, teaching, and standards.
• Foster staff and student development and create an integrated, innovative academic unit.
• Manage Divisional staff and resources.
• Promote diversity, transformation, and equity.
• Be prepared to assume the rotational role of HOD of the Department of Pathology.
• Actively participate in undergraduate and postgraduate teaching, research, and clinical/laboratory diagnostics.
• Apply a multidisciplinary approach to Medical Microbiology across primary healthcare centres and hospitals in the Cape Town Metropolitan district.

How to Apply

Access the official job description document for full application details by visiting the following link:

• Application Document Link: https://uct.ac.za/sites/default/files/2026-07/fhs-id1427-head-micrbiology-pathology-jd.pdf

Please ensure your application is submitted before the closing date.

• Closing Date: 16 August 2026