UFS and South African Society for Plant Pathology (SASPP) Fellowship Application for 2026/2027
Detailed Guide on UFS and South African Society for Plant Pathology (SASPP) Fellowship Application 2026/2027. Are you a South African student or early-career researcher with a passion for plant health, agriculture, and sustainable crop production? The UFS and South African Society for Plant Pathology (SASPP) Fellowship Programme 2026/2027 is now open for applications, offering financial and professional support to emerging plant pathologists who wish to advance their research and expertise in this critical field. Hosted by the University of the Free State (UFS) in collaboration with SASPP, this fellowship aims to strengthen research capacity in plant pathology and contribute to innovative solutions for South Africa’s agricultural challenges.
The UFS and SASPP Fellowship provides comprehensive support, which may include research funding, access to state-of-the-art laboratories, mentorship from leading experts in plant pathology, and opportunities to present findings at national and international conferences. Fellows gain exposure to cutting-edge research in disease management, crop protection, and sustainable agriculture, equipping them with the skills and knowledge to make a significant impact in the agricultural sector. This fellowship is particularly targeted at students and researchers with strong academic records, innovative research proposals, and a commitment to advancing plant health and biosecurity in South Africa.
By applying for the UFS and SASPP Fellowship 2026/2027, candidates not only receive financial and academic support but also open doors to rewarding career pathways in plant pathology, research, and agricultural innovation.
In addition, satrends.co.za offers a wide range of other bursary categories to suit your preference. Click on the links below to access other kinds of bursaries.
Universities in South Africa Bursaries Available for 2026
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Keep reading to find out more about the eligibility criteria, research areas supported, application process, and closing date for the UFS and SASPP Fellowship Programme 2026/2027.
About UFS & SASPP
The University of the Free State (UFS), located in Bloemfontein, is one of South Africa’s leading public universities. Established in 1904, UFS has grown into a multi-campus institution recognized for academic excellence and research innovation.
The South African Society for Plant Pathology (SASPP) supports plant pathologists in South Africa by providing platforms to exchange research findings, network with local and international experts, and coordinate affiliations with other scientific societies. Together, UFS and SASPP aim to foster the development of future leaders in plant pathology research.
About the UFS & SASPP Fellowship Programme 2026/2027
Fields Covered
The fellowship programme is open to postdoctoral candidates in the Department of Natural and Agricultural Sciences / Plant Sciences at UFS. The primary focus is on:
- Plant Pathology
- Soil-borne pathogens of agricultural crops
- Biological control of plant pathogens
Fellows will engage in full-time postdoctoral research under the supervision of Prof. Wijnand Swart in the Division of Plant Pathology. The programme is scheduled to commence on 1 January 2026 or soon thereafter.
Fellowship Coverage, Duration & Responsibilities
The UFS & SASPP Fellowship is a two-year programme with a total value of:
- R220,000 per year for the fellowship
- R30,000 for research-related expenses
Key Duties and Responsibilities:
- Lecturing undergraduate courses such as Ecology of Plant Pathogens and Host-Parasite Interactions
- Planning and preparing lectures and practical sessions
- Assessing student tests, exams, and tutorials
- Supervising postgraduate research (Honours, Masters, PhD)
- Conducting and publishing independent research in peer-reviewed journals
- Securing funding for personal and collaborative research projects
- Leading internal and external academic networks
- Participating in departmental and university committees
- Acting as an external examiner for other universities
- Establishing partnerships through international visits and collaborations
This combination of teaching, research, and networking ensures fellows gain comprehensive professional and academic experience.
Eligibility Requirements for UFS and SASPP Fellowship Application for 2026/2027
Applicants must meet the following criteria:
- Hold a PhD in Plant Pathology, specialising in soil-borne diseases and biological control
- Completed PhD within the last four years
- Full-time commitment to postdoctoral research at UFS
- Younger than 50 years old
- Willing to reside at the Bloemfontein campus for the duration of the programme
- Preference is given to candidates from designated groups
How to Apply for UFS and SASPP Fellowship 2026/2027
To apply, candidates must submit the following compulsory documents via email:
- PhD degree certificate
- Academic transcripts
- Motivational letter stating your earliest possible starting date
- Updated Curriculum Vitae (CV)
- Contact details of two academic referees
- Example of academic writing (journal article or chapter from your PhD thesis)
Note: No separate application form is required. Submit all documents to:
Email: swartwj@ufs.ac.za
Subject Line: “UFS SASPP Fellowship Application 2026”
Important Notes About the Fellowship
- Shortlisted candidates will attend an online interview
- Successful applicants will be contacted within 6–8 weeks after interviews
- Exceptional fellows may be offered permanent employment based on performance
Closing Date for UFS and SASPP Fellowship Application for 2026/2027
The official closing date for the UFS & SASPP Fellowship 2026 is 5 November 2025. Late applications will not be considered, so ensure your submission is complete and on time.
Contact Information of UFS and SASPP Fellowship Application for 2026/2027
For any inquiries regarding the fellowship, contact:
- Contact Person: Prof. Wijnand Swart
- Email: swartwj@ufs.ac.za