Postdoctoral Research Fellows
Position summary
Introduction
Job description
KEY PERFORMANCE INDICATORS:
OBJECTIVE:
Expression of interest to appoint Postdoctoral Research Fellows to conduct fundamental and applied research in pyrometallurgy. The successful candidates will provide technical support in the development, demonstration and commercialisation of products and services developed by Mintek. Contributing to human capital development and willingness to work towards a common purpose, with a strong sense of equity and inclusion, are non-negotiable attributes of the role.
AREAS OF INTEREST:
1. Computational methods in engineering and process design
2. Refractory materials design and characterisation
3. Circular economy systems and low carbon pyrometallurgy
4. Technology and process demonstration
BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:
· Team player who enjoys variety and has a strong affinity for planning and executing new and high impact research.
· Passion for research, technology development, and technology transfer.
· Excellent interpersonal skills.
· Ability to work in a stressful and demanding environment
· Willing to travel locally and internationally
QUALIFICATIONS AND EXPERIENCE:
· Doctoral degree in Metallurgical, Chemical, Process, Mechanical, Ceramic, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent, with a strong emphasis on pyrometallurgy research and/or technology development.
· Ability to develop high impact experimental techniques, models and prototypes from first principles.
· Strong portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed ISI-rated journals.
· Experience in designing pyrometallurgical processes and flowsheets using open source computational and design tools is an added advantage.
· Postdoctoral research experience in a similar environment is an added advantage.
· Ability to attract industry and/or bilateral research funding is highly advantageous.
· Professional registration is an added advantage.
· Experience with postgraduate supervision is an added advantage.
APPLICATIONS
- Comprehensive curriculum vitae, including academic records and R&D outputs.
- Copy of doctoral certificate (or letter from the university confirming meeting of Ph.D. requirements).
- Cover letter motivating the application.
- Two (2) reference/support letters (one must be from the Ph.D. supervisor).
GRADE: AO3 SALARY PACKAGE: Negotiable
CLOSING DATE: 06 March 2026
Successful candidates must arrange their own accommodation close to Mintek, and must make their own travel arrangements to get to Mintek. Candidates must be willing to undergo psychometric testing.
Should you not hear from us within one (1) month of the closing date, consider your application to be unsuccessful.
Mintek is an equal opportunity, affirmative action employer, whose aim is to promote representivity in all levels of occupational categories.
Minimum requirements
· Doctoral degree in Metallurgical, Chemical, Process, Mechanical, Ceramic, Electrical Engineering, or equivalent, with a strong emphasis on pyrometallurgy research and/or technology development.
· Ability to develop high impact experimental techniques, models and prototypes from first principles.
· Strong portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed ISI-rated journals.
· Experience in designing pyrometallurgical processes and flowsheets using open source computational and design tools is an added advantage.
· Postdoctoral research experience in a similar environment is an added advantage.
· Ability to attract industry and/or bilateral research funding is highly advantageous.
· Professional registration is an added advantage.
· Experience with postgraduate supervision is an added advantage.