Senior Researcher (Chemistry) at University of Limpopo

Minimum Qualifications and Requirements  

Applicants must meet the following requirements:  

• A PhD degree in Chemistry   (NQF Level 10).  
• The PhD must be  completed at the time of application . Candidates awaiting graduation 
• must submit proof of completion.  
• At least  1 year of post - PhD research experience   in  nanostructured materials ,  photo -electrocatalysis , or related electrochemical materials science.  
• A minimum of  ten (10) peer - reviewed research articles or book chapters , demonstrating consistent scholarly productivity.  
• Proven  experience  in  electrochemical  characterisation  techniques ,  including  but  not limited to cyclic voltammetry, impedance spectroscopy, and photo - electrochemical testing.  

Key Performance Areas (Duties and Responsibilities)  
Research and Innovation 

• Conduct cutting - edge research aligned to the  hydrogen economy , nanotechnology, and cross -disciplinary activities of the SARChI programme.  
• Design and execute research on  metal – organic framework (MOF) composites , catalysts, and advanced materials for photo - electrocatalytic hydrogen production.     
• Publish research findings in  high - impact international peer - reviewed journals   and present at conferences.  
• Contribute to  grant proposal development , collaborative projects, and networking with national and international research groups.  
• Laboratory and Research Infrastructure Management  
• Maintain,   calibrate,   and   troubleshoot   scientific   equipment   used   in nanomaterials   and electrochemical research.  
• Coordinate equipment repairs, service schedules, and laboratory operational planning.  
• Develop and oversee systems for  data collection, management, storage, and security .  
• Ensure adherence to laboratory safety protocols and good research practice.  
• Postgraduate Training and Capacity Development  
• Provide  high - level training   to postgraduate students, postdoctoral researchers, and emerging scientists.  
• Guide students in sample preparation, experimental design, instrumentation, and data analysis.  
• Support the Research Chair with supervision of  MSc and PhD candidates   in research areas aligned to nanotechnology and hydrogen energy.  

Academic and Programme Support  

• Provide   strategic   scientific   support   to   the   SARChI   Chairholder   in managing   research deliverables and milestones.  
• Assist in harmonising scientific interactions and collaborations within the Department and other research clusters.  
• Contribute to seminars, workshops, and academic development initiatives.  
• Liaise effectively with the Programme Leader and SARChI Chair on all research - related matters.