PostDoctoral Fellowship in Sustainable Mining at North West University

Job description

INTRODUCTION

• The Centre for Sustainable Mining, housed within the Faculty of Engineering, is pleased to offer exciting opportunities for postdoctoral fellowships. We are seeking highly motivated candidates to contribute to pioneering research projects that advance sustainable and circular mining practices.
• Our Centre is dedicated to driving innovation through engineering excellence and cutting-edge research. We focus on technologies that enhance resource efficiency, minimise environmental impact, and promote responsible mining. By integrating intelligent systems and circular economy principles, we aim to optimise resource use, extend material lifecycles, and improve the overall sustainability of mining operations.
• Successful candidates will collaborate with a multidisciplinary team of researchers and experts, contributing to projects that address critical challenges in the mining sector. This fellowship offers a unique platform to shape the future of mining through the development of transformative solutions and practices.

Job Description

• The successful candidate will be provided with an environment conducive to developing their research skills and enhancing their research profile through collaboration and publication at both national and international levels.
• They will work closely with a supervisor and engage with postgraduate students in a co-supervisory and mentoring capacity. 

Key Responsibilities:

• Conduct independent research in the field of sustainable mining practices and technologies.
• Publish research findings in high-impact journals.
• Co-supervise master's and doctoral students.
• Provide mentorship to postgraduate students.
• Contribute to research and funding proposals.
• Potentially participate in applied research projects in industry or as part of national programs, collaborating with other experts and stakeholders.

Minimum requirements

• PhD Degree: A relevant PhD degree obtained within five years prior to the appointment as a postdoctoral fellow.
• Publication Record: A good track record of publications in peer-reviewed ISI journals.
• Communication Skills: Excellent communication skills with a proven ability to collaborate effectively within a team environment.
• Research Interests: A demonstrated interest in areas such as minerals and metal resource base, alternative sources of minerals and metals, sustainable mining practices, environmental, social, and governance (ESG) considerations, mining transformation and innovation, digital analytics in mining.

Key Behavioural Competencies:

• Critical, independent thinker.
• Strong decision-making skills.
• Excellent analytical skills.
• Leadership abilities.
• High levels of self-motivation.

Apply by: 15 October 2025