Company: Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT)
Location: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal
Remuneration: R300,000 per annum (tax-exempt)
Closing Date: 29 August 2025

Introduction

Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), through its Faculty of Engineering and Research Directorate, is offering a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship for 2025/2026. This opportunity is designed for highly motivated researchers with expertise in industrial wastewater treatment. The fellowship focuses on innovative electro-precipitation (EP) technology for removing heavy metals and emerging contaminants, advancing both scientific knowledge and practical environmental solutions.

What is MUT Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2025 / 2026?

The MUT Postdoctoral Research Fellowship is a one-year, tax-free funded research position valued at R300,000 per annum. It is renewable for another year based on performance and available funding. The research initiative aims to tackle the global challenge of wastewater pollution by exploring electro-precipitation processes to eliminate toxic contaminants such as lead, cadmium, arsenic, and pharmaceutical residues from industrial wastewater.

Key research activities include:

• Optimisation of EP operational parameters such as electrode material, current density, pH, and reaction time
• Laboratory and pilot-scale studies using both synthetic and real wastewater samples
• Application of advanced analytical tools such as ICP-OES, FTIR, and UV-Vis spectroscopy
• Assessment of energy efficiency, sludge generation, and water reuse potential in industrial applications

Minimum Requirements

Applicants must meet the following eligibility criteria:

• A PhD in Chemical Engineering or a closely related applied science, obtained within the last five years
• Expertise in wastewater treatment technologies, industrial remediation, or waste valorisation in a circular economy context
• Preference for South African citizens or permanent residents
• International applicants must hold a Section 11(1)(b) Visitor’s Visa for academic activities
• A strong peer-reviewed publication record in ISI-indexed journals
• Applicants must not have held permanent full-time academic or professional positions

Recommended Additional Experience

• Mentoring postgraduate students
• Strong research track record with measurable outputs
• Proficiency in experimental design software
• Hands-on skills with analytical instruments such as GC-MS and HPLC

Role Responsibility

The successful fellow will be expected to:

• Initiate, conduct, and manage high-quality independent and collaborative research projects
• Design experiments, generate reliable data, and conduct detailed analysis
• Draft competitive research proposals and secure funding in environmental pollution control
• Publish at least two manuscripts per year in accredited journals
• Present research findings at national and international conferences
• Supervise or co-supervise postgraduate students in related research fields
• Build partnerships with industry, government, and academic stakeholders
• Contribute to circular economy and sustainability initiatives

Skills and Attributes

Ideal candidates should possess:

• Strong academic writing and literature review abilities
• Proficiency in data analysis and advanced computer literacy
• Excellent communication skills (written and verbal)
• Ability to work independently while thriving in collaborative teams
• Strong project management and organisational skills
• Innovative problem-solving mindset with passion for impactful research

Fellowship Value

• R300,000 per annum (tax-exempt)
• Initially awarded for 1 year
• Renewable for an additional year based on performance and funding

How to Apply

Interested candidates must submit their applications by 29 August 2025 to:

Ms S.N. Masondo
Email: hr.engineering@mut.ac.za

Required Application Documents

• Motivation letter detailing eligibility and suitability
• Certified copy of South African ID (or passport for international candidates)
• Comprehensive CV with publication list and academic outputs
• Certified doctoral degree certificate(s)
• Names and contact details of three referees
• Academic transcripts
• SAQA evaluation certificate (for international qualifications)