The University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) has published a notice for 2 x MSc bursaries at the Research Centre for Plant Growth and Development (RCPGD) (Pietermaritzburg Campus). The notice states that each bursary is valued at R100 000 per year for two years (subject to satisfactory progress).
At a glance
- Sponsor/host: University of KwaZulu-Natal (UKZN) – Research Centre for Plant Growth and Development (RCPGD)
- Level: MSc
- Number of bursaries: 2
- Value: R100 000 per year (for two years, subject to progress)
- Research areas: Plant Physiology, Stress Physiology, Seed Germination, Ethnobotany, Plant Biotechnology, Tissue Culture
- Closing date: 20 February 2026
About the host
The UKZN Research Centre for Plant Growth and Development (RCPGD) is associated with the School of Agriculture and Science at the Pietermaritzburg Campus. The notice indicates that bursary recipients will be supervised by Professor Johannes van Staden (Director of RCPGD) and co-supervised by members of the Centre.
Eligibility
- Minimum requirement: A BSc (Hons) in Botany, Plant Science or equivalent.
- Exclusions: The notice states that applicants who already have bursaries from other donors do not qualify.
- Priority: Students who will be permanently based on the Pietermaritzburg Campus are given priority (per the notice).
What it covers
- The notice states that each MSc bursary is valued at R100 000 per year for two years (provided sufficient progress is made in the first year).
Documents to prepare
- Cover letter stating your field of interest
- Curriculum Vitae (CV) with personal details
- 2 academic references
- Academic transcript / record
Closing date
20 February 2026 (late applications will not be considered).
Common mistakes to avoid
- Not including the advert reference number in the email subject line (the notice says it must be clearly stated).
- Submitting without the required documents (cover letter, CV, references, transcript).
- Applying if you already hold another donor bursary (the notice states you do not qualify).
- Missing the closing date.
How to apply
- Email your application (cover letter, CV, 2 academic references, and transcript) to rcpgd@ukzn.ac.za.
- Include the Advert Reference Number: RCPGD 01/2026 in the email subject line.
- Shortlisted applicants will be contacted for an online interview (per the notice). The successful candidate is expected to start as soon as possible but no later than 1 April 2026.