PURPOSE OF THE POSITION

To conduct and partake in activities in line with HySA Infrastructure’s mandate aligned with DSI and Sanedi. The activities related to research and development and ongoing commercialization.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Catalyst development:

• Successful development and optimization of novel catalysts and scale-up synthesis processes.

Physical characterisation:

• Utilizing techniques such as SEM-EDX, HRTEM, XRD, BET, XPS, optical profile meter, and others to analyse catalyst and interpreting data and making informed decisions on catalyst quality.

Electrochemical characterisation:

• Performing cyclic voltammetry, linear sweep voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and other techniques analysing performance metrics such as current density, electrochemically active surface area, efficiency and stability, and correlate electrochemical properties with physical properties. Work towards Pt and Ir coating (electrochemically).

Project management:

• Developing project plans with clear milestones and timelines, coordinate with team members, report progress to senior management.

Procurement:

• Gather quotations and create order forms for lab consumables and equipment.

Laboratory management:

• Part of safety committee to conduct lab inspections, housekeeping, and waste control and report identified risks for corrective maintenance to facility manager.

• A PhD (NQF level 10) in Chemistry or similar.
• A diploma or advanced certificate (NQF level 6) in Advanced Project Management.

EXPERIENCE:

• A minimum of three (3) years’ lead/contributor experience in catalyst development.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ lead/contributor experience in physical characterisation.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ lead/contributor experience in electrochemical characterisation.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ lead/contributor experience in data analysis.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ contributor experience in laboratory management.

RECOMMENDATION

• A minimum of two (2) years’ experience as a participant in conferences, workshops and exhibitions related to technical aspect of hydrogen technology.
• A minimum of three (3) years’ post-doc experience.

KEY FUNCTIONAL/ TECHNICAL COMPETENCIES:

• Technical writing and reporting.
• Deep understanding of catalysts synthesis methods, including sol-gel, precipitation, etc. Proficiency in physical characterisation tools such as SEM-EDX, HRTEM, XRD, BET, XPS and optical profile meter.
• Knowledge of electrochemical Characterisation methods such as CV, LSV, EIS, etc.
• Strong background in material science principles. In- Depth knowledge of inorganic and physical chemistry, familiarity with nanomaterials and their applications
• Proficiency in data analysis and interpretation of experimental data. Comprehensive knowledge of laboratory safety protocols. Familiar with RIMS InfoEd, Origin, EcLab, Sigma Plot, Microsoft office (PowerPoint, word, excel, outlook). Knowledge of budgeting, resource allocation and timeline management.
• Have good understanding of and participation in local and international public awareness campaign as aligned with DSI and HySA goals.

KEY BEHAVIOURAL COMPETENCIES:

• Critical thinking and attention to details, collaboration and teamwork, ethical integrity, effective communication, time management, accountability and responsibility, leadership and mentoring skills,
• Continuous learning and decision making.

REMUNERATION

The annual total remuneration package will be commensurate with the level of appointment as advertised and in line with the NWU policy guidelines. 

ENQUIRIES REGARDING JOB CONTENT MAY BE DIRECTED TO:       Prof. Phillimon Modisha on 018 285 2462

ENQUIRIES REGARDING RECRUITMENT PROCESS MAY BE DIRECTED TO: Mrs. Fadilha Minty on 018 299 4993

CLOSING DATE:                                                                                                   14 November 2024

PLANNED COMMENCEMENT OF DUTIES:                                                         As soon as possible 

Kindly note that applications must be submitted online through the official news vacancy website.

Incomplete applications and those submitted through any other platform will not be considered.

The University subscribes to and applies the principles of Employment Equity (EE) Act and is committed to transformation. Preference will be given to candidates from the designated groups, in accordance with the principles of the EE Act and NWU Employment Equity Plan. 

The University reserves the right not to make an appointment. Communication will be limited to shortlisted candidates only.

If you are not contacted within two months from the closing date of this advertisement, please accept that your application was unsuccessful.