Introduction

The South African Circular Minerals and Metals Initiative (SACMMI) hosted by the Centre for Sustainable Mining (CSM) at the North-West University invites applications for a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Beneficiation of Critical Raw Materials. The research programme has a primary focus on the beneficiation and recovery of critical raw materials from secondary resources through pyrometallurgical and hydrometallurgical processing routes. Applications are invited from highly motivated researchers with a strong background in extractive metallurgy, mineral processing, metallurgical engineering, chemical engineering, hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy or a related discipline. 

Research focus and responsibilities

The research will encompass the development, optimisation and integration of processes for the recovery, separation and upgrading of critical metals and minerals from secondary resources, including mine wastes, metallurgical residues, industrial by-products and end-of-life materials. The fellowship provides an excellent opportunity to conduct high-impact research in critical raw materials and circular resource utilisation, publish in leading international journals, expand national and international research networks, contribute to the development of sustainable mineral-processing technologies, and develop an independent research profile. The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary research group with access to mineral and material characterisation facilities, hydrometallurgical processing systems, high-temperature pyrometallurgical equipment and comprehensive analytical facilities, as well as established national and international collaborations.

• A relevant PhD degree in extractive metallurgy, metallurgical engineering/ chemistry, chemical engineering, hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy or a closely related discipline, obtained within five years before appointment as a postdoctoral fellow.
• Demonstrated experimental research experience in extractive metallurgy or a closely related field.
• A good publication record in peer-reviewed international journals.
• Strong experimental, analytical and scientific-writing skills.
• The ability to plan and conduct research independently, analyse and interpret experimental results, and prepare research outputs for publication.
• Excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary research environment.
• An interest in hydrometallurgy, pyrometallurgy and recycling would be advantageous.

SHOULD YOU HAVE ANY ENQUIRIES, KINDLY DIRECT THEM TO:

Derik van der Westhuizen – derik.vanderwesthuizen@nwu.ac.za

Prof Kaniki Tumba – kaniki.tumba@nwu.ac.za

CLOSING DATE: 30 October 2026

COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES: As soon as possible.