16 Research Fellow jobs in South Africa

Job category: RandD, Science and Scientific Research

Location: Randburg

Contract: Fixed Term Contract

Remuneration: Negotiable

EE position: No

Mintek has an exciting career opportunity for a POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOW within the Pyrometallurgy Division (PMD). The candidate is required to perform tasks related to executing pyrometallurgy research and technology development. This includes being responsible for computational multiphysics and reduced order modelling in problems involving fluid flow, heat transfer, and chemical reactions.

JOB KNOWLEDGE AND REQUIREMENTS: 

• Strong understanding of computational multiphysics and reduced order modelling in problems involving fluid flow, heat transfer, and chemical reactions. 
• Proven experience with open source computational multiphysics modelling tools such as OpenFOAM .
• Proven experience with software development languages such as C and Python.
• Strong understanding of pyrometallurgy fundamentals.
• Demonstrated ability to conceptualise and deliver high impact research in fields relevant to pyrometallurgy.
• Strong portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed journals is a distinct advantage.
• A strong understanding of the South African and global metals, minerals, and energy industries.
• Experience with pyrometallurgical process software and design tools such as PyroSim, FactSage or similar is an advantage.
• Experience with CAD tools such as Fusion 360 or FreeCAD is an advantage.
• Knowledge or experience with SHEQ systems.
• Knowledge of technology transfer, commercialisation and product development is highly advantageous.
• Demonstrated ability to attract investment or R&D funding is highly advantageous.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS: 

§ Strong understanding of computational multiphysics and reduced order modelling in problems involving fluid flow, heat transfer, and chemical reactions.

§ Proven experience with open source computational multiphysics modelling tools such as OpenFOAM .

§ Proven experience with software development languages such as C and Python.

§ Strong understanding of pyrometallurgy fundamentals.

§ Demonstrated ability to conceptualise and deliver high impact research in fields relevant to pyrometallurgy.

§ Strong portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed journals is a distinct advantage.

§ A strong understanding of the South African and global metals, minerals, and energy industries.

§ Experience with pyrometallurgical process software and design tools such as PyroSim, FactSage or similar is an advantage.

§ Experience with CAD tools such as Fusion 360 or FreeCAD is an advantage.

§ Knowledge or experience with SHEQ systems.

§ Knowledge of technology transfer, commercialisation and product development is highly advantageous.

§ Demonstrated ability to attract investment or R&D funding is highly advantageous.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

§ Minimum PhD in Metallurgical/Chemical/Mechanical/Process Engineering or equivalent, with a strong emphasis on modelling skills of relevance to pyrometallurgy research and technology development.

§ Ideally, one year postdoctoral research experience, with strong emphasis on computational multiphysics and reduced order modelling.

§ Familiarity with high performance computing and the use of shared/remote computational resources is desirable.

§ Professional recognition and registration are an added advantage.

§ Experience with postgraduate supervision is an added advantage.

REQUIRED BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

§ Team player who enjoys variety and has a strong affinity for planning and conducting new and innovative projects.

§ Passion for pyrometallurgy research, technology development and technology transfer.

§ Good interpersonal skills.

§ Ability to work in a stressful and demanding environment.

§ Willing to travel locally and internationally.

§ Prepared to work shifts in hot and dusty plant environments when required.

§ Ability to independently engage with industry leaders, operators and high-level international partners.

Africa Health Research Institute (AHRI) is an independent, transdisciplinary scientific research institute based across two campuses in the province of KwaZulu-Natal (KZN) in South Africa.AHRI’s research combines population, basic and translational, social, and clinical sciences to understand and intervene in the health and well-being of South African communities.

AHRI works in partnership with local communities and South African academic, governmental, and other policy stakeholders and collaborates with over institutions globally. AHRI prioritises the training of the next generation of African scientists. The work lives of AHRI’s ~ scientists, students and staff members are driven by our values : ubuntu, transformation, leadership, innovation, excellence and collaboration.

Africa Health Research Institute seek to appoint a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow

RESPONSIBILITIES :

• Acting as the lead scientific liaison for day-to-day oversight of research activities, including conducting and leading data analyses across the study components, financial reporting, etc.
• Supporting the design of data collection instruments, obtaining IRB approvals, analyzing associated data, writing manuscripts, and submitting these for peer reviewed publication
• Working with the research teams in Durban and Somkhele to support the implementation of study protocols and to monitor data collection and quality in the field
• Supervising, orienting, and training project students and staff who contribute to these efforts. Ability to manage virtual meetings and to travel as required to project sites is required; And,
• Supporting capacity building at the project sites through presenting work to local stakeholders and research collaborators, providing guidance and mentorship to research staff involved in different aspects of the research project, and engaging stakeholders at the study sites and globally in dissemination of the project findings.

REQUIREMENTS :

• A doctoral degree in a relevant field which may include but is not limited to clinical psychology, medical anthropology, or statistics / bioinformatics. Other desirable qualifications include :
• Record of scholarly publication, including first-authored scientific journal articles.
• Expertise in research design and data analysis, including any of the following : clinical trials, grounded theory, systematic reviews, etc.
• Demonstrated track record engaging in fieldwork, involving meeting with stakeholders including adolescent study participants, clinicians, community members, and researchers.
• Experience working in or collaborating with researchers in mental health and HIV.
• Prior supervision of research team or coordination of research activities in low- and middle-income settings.
• Current knowledge of mental health problems and services in South Africa.

For more info :

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Postdoctoral Research Fellow • Durban, KwaZulu Natal

Job category: RandD, Science and Scientific Research

Location: Randburg

Contract: Fixed Term Contract

Remuneration: Negotiable

EE position: No

Mintek has an exciting career opportunity for a POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOW within the Pyrometallurgy Division (PMD). The candidate is required to perform tasks related to executing pyrometallurgy research and technology development. This includes being responsible for computational multiphysics and reduced order modelling in problems involving fluid flow, heat transfer, and chemical reactions.

JOB KNOWLEDGE AND REQUIREMENTS:

• Strong understanding of computational multiphysics and reduced order modelling in problems involving fluid flow, heat transfer, and chemical reactions.
• Proven experience with open source computational multiphysics modelling tools such as OpenFOAM .
• Proven experience with software development languages such as C and Python.
• Strong understanding of pyrometallurgy fundamentals.
• Demonstrated ability to conceptualise and deliver high impact research in fields relevant to pyrometallurgy.
• Strong portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed journals is a distinct advantage.
• A strong understanding of the South African and global metals, minerals, and energy industries.
• Experience with pyrometallurgical process software and design tools such as PyroSim, FactSage or similar is an advantage.
• Experience with CAD tools such as Fusion 360 or FreeCAD is an advantage.
• Knowledge or experience with SHEQ systems.
• Knowledge of technology transfer, commercialisation and product development is highly advantageous.
• Demonstrated ability to attract investment or R&D funding is highly advantageous.

MINIMUM REQUIREMENTS:

§ Strong understanding of computational multiphysics and reduced order modelling in problems involving fluid flow, heat transfer, and chemical reactions.

§ Proven experience with open source computational multiphysics modelling tools such as OpenFOAM .

§ Proven experience with software development languages such as C and Python.

§ Strong understanding of pyrometallurgy fundamentals.

§ Demonstrated ability to conceptualise and deliver high impact research in fields relevant to pyrometallurgy.

§ Strong portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed journals is a distinct advantage.

§ A strong understanding of the South African and global metals, minerals, and energy industries.

§ Experience with pyrometallurgical process software and design tools such as PyroSim, FactSage or similar is an advantage.

§ Experience with CAD tools such as Fusion 360 or FreeCAD is an advantage.

§ Knowledge or experience with SHEQ systems.

§ Knowledge of technology transfer, commercialisation and product development is highly advantageous.

§ Demonstrated ability to attract investment or R&D funding is highly advantageous.

REQUIRED QUALIFICATIONS:

§ Minimum PhD in Metallurgical/Chemical/Mechanical/Process Engineering or equivalent, with a strong emphasis on modelling skills of relevance to pyrometallurgy research and technology development.

§ Ideally, one year postdoctoral research experience, with strong emphasis on computational multiphysics and reduced order modelling.

§ Familiarity with high performance computing and the use of shared/remote computational resources is desirable.

§ Professional recognition and registration are an added advantage.

§ Experience with postgraduate supervision is an added advantage.

REQUIRED BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

§ Team player who enjoys variety and has a strong affinity for planning and conducting new and innovative projects.

§ Passion for pyrometallurgy research, technology development and technology transfer.

§ Good interpersonal skills.

§ Ability to work in a stressful and demanding environment.

§ Willing to travel locally and internationally.

§ Prepared to work shifts in hot and dusty plant environments when required.

§ Ability to independently engage with industry leaders, operators and high-level international partners.

Postdoctoral research fellow: Chemical Engineering

• Type of engagement: Permanent appointment

An opportunity for a postdoctoral researcher focused on pilot-plant processing of lignocellulosic biomass through pyrolysis and hydrothermal methods is available in the Department of Chemical Engineering. The position involves pilot-scale optimisation of biomass processing with pyrolysis and steam-explosion methods, each aimed at different outcomes based on the chemical properties of the products. Liquid products from these processes will be considered for direct application, while solid products will undergo further processing such as anaerobic digestion for biogas production. The pilot-plant equipment can process tens of kilograms of biomass per day.

The research group collaborates with industrial and academic partners to convert lignocellulosic biomass into higher-value energy, chemical, and material products, requiring process optimisation for specific biomass materials. The postdoctoral researcher will be expected to:

1. Operate pilot-plant equipment for pyrolysis and steam explosion safely and independently, collaborating with postgraduate students and researchers.
2. Critically evaluate existing technology performance, propose improvements, and consider the specific objectives of the projects.
3. Provide technical support to group members working on similar projects.
4. Publish research outputs relevant to the field.
5. Develop new research areas and prepare funding proposals to sustain activities.

Applicants should hold a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering obtained within the past five years from a recognised institution, with a strong background in processing lignocellulosic biomass via pyrolysis and/or hydrothermal methods. Experience with microbial bioprocessing, anaerobic digestion of pretreated lignocelluloses, or pilot-scale biomass processing is highly encouraged.

The fellowship lasts at least 12 months, starting no later than 15 January 2026 . An earlier start is preferred. The position is renewable up to 4 years based on performance and funding. The scholarship is competitive and tax-free, but postdoctoral fellows are not employees and do not receive employee benefits.

Closing date: 31 July 2025. The university reserves the right not to fill the position.

Stellenbosch University hosts 29,000 students and 3,000 staff across five campuses, situated in a scenic university town in the Western Cape. The campus features historic and modern architecture, environmentally friendly facilities, and a commitment to sustainability and academic excellence.

This opportunity was developed in collaboration with Higher Education South Africa, aiming to connect South African academics globally.

Giving Back : Contributing to South African higher education through revenue sharing.

The unitalentza Job Platform is an advanced job listing service for South African universities.

SANSA has the mandate to drive the promotion and use of space and cooperation in space-related activities. To achieve this mandate, the Agency fosters research in space science and technology, advances space engineering programmes and supports the creation of an environment conducive to industrial development in space technologies within the framework of national government policy. More information about the organisation can be found at 

SANSA thrives on its employees’ creativity, competencies, expertise and ingenuity to succeed in a high-performing environment. If you aspire to the SANSA values of we care for our people, we are customer-centric, we innovate and drive impact, we collaborate and we extend trust, then SANSA could be the place for you.

The following 1-year contract opportunities exist in SANSA to be filled by individuals with the relevant skills, drive, competencies and qualifications.

Postdo Research Fellow: (Plasma Physics)

Location: Hermanus   

Programme: Space Science

Reporting to the Science Research and Applications Manager, the Researcher will undertake cutting edge research focused on theoretical plasma physics in space science and build a research track record while contributing to growing knowledge within SANSA.

Key performance areas will include, but are not limited to:

< i>Publish and present research results in peer review journals, local and international conferences and other appropriate channels
• Identify opportunities for international and national collaborations and partnerships
• Science Advancement and Public engagement activities

The ideal candidate must have the following qualifications and experience:

< i>PhD – Space Science/Space Physics/Pure and/or Applied Mathematics li>Early career research track record that demonstrates the ability to do independent research with a strong preference for theoretical plasma physics research in the area of linear and nonlinear waves (kinetic and fluid theory studies)
• One or two peer-reviewed publications with a preference for first-author papers
• Participation in science advancement activities
• Programming skills with a preference for Python
• The ability to work independently and as part of the team

Should you meet the above requirements, please upload your detailed CV, and apply on:  Current Opportunities (mcidirecthire.com)

Disclaimer

Due to the high volume of applications received, only shortlisted candidates will be contacted. Should a candidate not hear from us within four (4) weeks following their application, they should consider their application unsuccessful.

Strictly fair and non-discriminatory selection procedures will be followed. We use Affirmative Action (AA) measures in an endeavour to redress the disadvantages in employment experienced by designated groups. Where possible, preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups as defined in the Employment Equity Act and in line with SANSA's Employment Equity plans. SANSA reserves the right to defer or close a vacancy at any time.

Background verification, including criminal records, credit checks, security clearances, qualifications, and citizenship checks, as well as competency assessment and psychometric testing, shall form part of the selection process. By applying for this vacancy, the candidates consent that SANSA can collect, process, and share their Personal Information (PI) for verification, assessments, and employment purposes only. 

Closing Date: 18 August 2025

Listing reference: minte_000292

Listing status: Online

Apply by: 31 October 2024

Industry: Mining & Quarrying

Job category: RandD, Science and Scientific Research

Location: Randburg

Contract: Fixed Term Contract

Remuneration: Negotiable

EE position: No

Mintek has an exciting career opportunity for a POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOW within the Minerals Processing Division (MPD). The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will work with senior researchers and other ecosystem partners to conduct cutting-edge research that will advance the objectives of the organization. The candidate will be responsible for formulating ideas relating to technical projects, developing research questions, designing experiments, identifying problems, and evaluating and implementing solutions.

The Mineral Processing Division comprising Physical Separation, Flotation and Comminution Groups seeks to appoint a postdoctoral candidate to conduct research within the following areas (but not limited to):

1. Focus on process solutions for industry impact areas of water and energy efficiency and reduction in circuits.
2. Tailings retreatment process solutions.
3. Novel technology evaluation for low grade and complex ore bodies as well as fines and ultra-fines milling and classification.
4. Physical separation (gravity, magnetic and electrostatic separation) predictive modelling of circuits with the aim to scale up laboratory data to pilot plants and commercial operations.
5. Modelling and simulation of comminution circuits and plant audits and surveys data validation.
6. Evaluation of energy and/or water efficient technology for incorporation into comminution flowsheets.
7. Develop software tools and data models to improve the interpretation of mineralogical data (numerical, images).
8. Conduct advanced research on flotation processes, including reagent chemistry, surface chemistry, and mineral recovery.
9. Conduct various flotation tests such as bench roughers, cleaner & recleaner and lock cycle tests.
10. Investigate the adsorption mechanisms, zeta potential, thermodynamic, kinetics and hydrophobicity changes at the mineral/reagent interface.
11. Develop and test new flotation reagents and technologies for improved kinetics, selectivity and recovery.
12. Analyse experimental data using advanced techniques such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopes (SEM), and surface tension measurements.

Key Responsibilities:

The Postdoctoral Fellow will work under the direction of a senior researcher and is expected to carry out the following responsibilities:

1. Formulating ideas relating to technical projects, developing research questions, designing experiments, identifying problems, and evaluating and implementing solutions.
2. Data collection, analysis, and modelling.
3. Presenting at high impact conferences nationally and internationally.
4. Participating in site visits, meetings, and workshops.
5. Producing high quality research publications (peer-reviewed articles, reports, book chapters, etc.)
6. Contributing towards the development of prototypes, processes, models, products.
7. Writing research proposals.
8. Mentoring and supervising postgraduate students.
9. Building research collaborations nationally and internationally.
10. Contributing towards science engagement activities.
11. Supporting initiatives that promote the strategic goals and objectives of Mintek.

Minimum Qualifications:

A doctorate in one of the fields below:

• Chemical Engineering
• Metallurgical Engineering

Skills and Experience:

• Excellent technical skills
• Good track record of research outputs and publications
• Good teaching and training skills (mentoring of postgraduate students)
• Good interpersonal skills
• Excellent writing and presentation skills
• Ability to work under pressure
• Ability to work and lead in both a team environment as well as an individual
• Professional recognition and registration is an added advantage.

UNU-WIDER is hiring two Research Fellows in Pretoria, South Africa.

As a Research Fellow, you would contribute to the research and management of our Southern African – Towards Inclusive Economic Development (SA-TIED) programme, which builds critical bridges between research and policy in South Africa.

For the full job description and to apply, visit UNU Careers .

UNU offers three types of contracts: fixed-term staff positions (General Service, National Officer, and Professional), Personnel Service Agreement positions (PSA), and consultant positions (CTC). For more information, see the Contract Types page.

UNU-WIDER is hiring two Research Fellows in Pretoria, South Africa.

As a Research Fellow, you would contribute to the research and management of our Southern African – Towards Inclusive Economic Development (SA-TIED) programme, which builds critical bridges between research and policy in South Africa.

For the full job description and to apply, visit UNU Careers .

UNU offers three types of contracts: fixed-term staff positions (General Service, National Officer, and Professional), Personnel Service Agreement positions (PSA), and consultant positions (CTC). For more information, see the Contract Types page.

Listing reference: minte_000292

Listing status: Online

Apply by: 31 October 2024

Industry: Mining & Quarrying

Job category: RandD, Science and Scientific Research

Location: Randburg

Contract: Fixed Term Contract

Remuneration: Negotiable

EE position: No

Mintek has an exciting career opportunity for a POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOW within the Minerals Processing Division (MPD). The Postdoctoral Research Fellow will work with senior researchers and other ecosystem partners to conduct cutting-edge research that will advance the objectives of the organization. The candidate will be responsible for formulating ideas relating to technical projects, developing research questions, designing experiments, identifying problems, and evaluating and implementing solutions.

The Mineral Processing Division comprising Physical Separation, Flotation and Comminution Groups seeks to appoint a postdoctoral candidate to conduct research within the following areas (but not limited to):

1. Focus on process solutions for industry impact areas of water and energy efficiency and reduction in circuits.
2. Tailings retreatment process solutions.
3. Novel technology evaluation for low grade and complex ore bodies as well as fines and ultra-fines milling and classification.
4. Physical separation (gravity, magnetic and electrostatic separation) predictive modelling of circuits with the aim to scale up laboratory data to pilot plants and commercial operations.
5. Modelling and simulation of comminution circuits and plant audits and surveys data validation.
6. Evaluation of energy and/or water efficient technology for incorporation into comminution flowsheets.
7. Develop software tools and data models to improve the interpretation of mineralogical data (numerical, images).
8. Conduct advanced research on flotation processes, including reagent chemistry, surface chemistry, and mineral recovery.
9. Conduct various flotation tests such as bench roughers, cleaner & recleaner and lock cycle tests.
10. Investigate the adsorption mechanisms, zeta potential, thermodynamic, kinetics and hydrophobicity changes at the mineral/reagent interface.
11. Develop and test new flotation reagents and technologies for improved kinetics, selectivity and recovery.
12. Analyse experimental data using advanced techniques such as Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), scanning electron microscopes (SEM), and surface tension measurements.

Key Responsibilities:

The Postdoctoral Fellow will work under the direction of a senior researcher and is expected to carry out the following responsibilities:

1. Formulating ideas relating to technical projects, developing research questions, designing experiments, identifying problems, and evaluating and implementing solutions.
2. Data collection, analysis, and modelling.
3. Presenting at high impact conferences nationally and internationally.
4. Participating in site visits, meetings, and workshops.
5. Producing high quality research publications (peer-reviewed articles, reports, book chapters, etc.)
6. Contributing towards the development of prototypes, processes, models, products.
7. Writing research proposals.
8. Mentoring and supervising postgraduate students.
9. Building research collaborations nationally and internationally.
10. Contributing towards science engagement activities.
11. Supporting initiatives that promote the strategic goals and objectives of Mintek.

Minimum Qualifications:

A doctorate in one of the fields below:

• Chemical Engineering
• Metallurgical Engineering

Skills and Experience:

• Excellent technical skills
• Good track record of research outputs and publications
• Good teaching and training skills (mentoring of postgraduate students)
• Good interpersonal skills
• Excellent writing and presentation skills
• Ability to work under pressure
• Ability to work and lead in both a team environment as well as an individual
• Professional recognition and registration is an added advantage.