About the job:
- The CSIR has a vacancy for a Computational Mechanics Support Scientist/Engineer: HPC in the Centre for High Performance Computing (CHPC) area within the National Integrated Cyber-Infrastructure System (NICIS). The incumbent will be responsible to support and maintain a variety of application software packages for a wide range of researchers in the academic, public sector, private sector and internal researchers making use of the CHPC's high performance computing cluster resources. This position is based in Rosebank, Cape Town.
Key responsibilities:
- Provide technical support to the CHPC HPC users (including software and workflow support, development and/or customization of user scripts and effective communication with stakeholders) to ensure effective usage of computer platforms;
- Compile and maintain a wide variety of software and libraries in a Linux environment (for compilers, MPI libraries, Python, R, Perl, etc.) on the CHPC compute systems;
- Test and benchmark HPC applications software to determine optimum set-up and efficient use at the CHPC with the aim to advise users on best practices in making use of the software;
- Support data intensive research programs which may include cloud-based applications of users;
- Work together with other staff members in implementing user support projects that can assist the development of the Centre;
- Provide support, implement and/or participate in activities across all regions of South Africa, and possibly other overseas countries, depending on the need;
- Participate in the human capital development initiatives and trainings to the benefit of the users and the broader research community;
- Develop and optimise methods to pursue HPC applications research.
Qualifications, skills and experience:
- A Master’s degree in computational mechanics (e.g., fluid Dynamics, structural mechanics, electromagnetics, discreet element methods, etc.) or data science with at least two years’ experience in supporting users of HPC Linux based compute infrastructures;
- A Doctoral degree in the one of the above disciplines will be advantageous;
The following attributes are not a prerequisite, but will be advantageous:
- Experience with setting up or managing multi-node parallel computing systems;
- Experience in developing parallel programmed software.
- Experience and skill with Machine Learning (ML) and Artificial Intelligence (AI)
- Ability to teach at a post-graduate level
Must have:
- Intimate familiarity with the research environment and challenges within South Africa;
- Strong Linux operating system competency;
- Experience with installing, compiling and using open-source high-performance computing applications software;
- Excellent interpersonal and communication skills (verbal and written);
- A commitment to continuous learning;
- Competence with at least one programming language widely used in the research environment, such as Python, R, C, C++ or Fortran;
go to method of application »
About the job:
- The CSIR has a vacancy for an Impact Area Manager, in Advanced Materials and Manufacturing, within the Manufacturing Cluster of the Advanced Production and Security Division. The incumbent will be responsible to drive strategic impact within industry by means of research, development and transfer of technologies and integrated complete solutions to achieve the outcomes appropriate to the CSIR, division and cluster mandate and strategy. The incumbent will be responsible for leading research groups, service delivery and industry programmes, as well as drive the business development of the impact area, in collaboration with the business development and commercialisation portfolio.
Key responsibilities:
- In conjunction with the cluster leadership, contribute to cluster research, development and implementation (RDI) strategy.
- Provide and coordinate strategic leadership within the Impact Area.
- Develop, provide and motivate capacity to deliver on the cluster’s strategy.
- Integrate complete solutions aligned with the focus of the Impact Area.
- Develop and implement appropriate components of cluster research, development and innovation (RDI) strategy with specific sub-sectors and specific impacts.
- Contribute to strategic investment goal setting for the cluster and development of an RDI strategy for the Impact Area.
- Drive and implement a business plan for operation, sustainable growth and impact.
- Drive staff development through strategic Human Capital development initiatives to advance individuals through their research careers, to ensure alignment with industrial needs.
- Promote high quality science, engineering and technology (SET) expertise and develop appropriate SET capacity and profiles.
- In collaboration with business development and commercialisation portfolio:
- Drive the transfer of technology and solutions to industry/user environments.
- Drive and implement the business development and commercialisation strategy.
- Package technologies for commercialization and/or develop and “investment ready business” through financial modelling, market assessment and business development.
- Lead strategic stakeholder interaction, internal and external – including international collaborations.
- Establish and service strategic alliances (institutional) according to RDI strategy.
- Drive the financial sustainability of the Impact Area and attract funding.
- Integrate sector knowledge in multidimensional research and development programmes in order to deliver industry aligned RDI, through deep understanding of the industry needs.
- Propose and/or contribute to the strategic investment plan and implement Parliamentary Grant, other grant-funded projects and programmes;
Drive SET outputs and quality, which includes:
- Industry applications – support to SMME, products and prototypes developed, technologies localised and diffused, new patents granted, new licenses, new companies formed, industry standards and capable state (technology development, acquisition and use dimension), etc.
- Deliver on all KPIs of the area and ensure all outputs are achieved, including transformation, profit and loss, quality, health, safety and environment as per agreed targets;
- Implement and comply with appropriate financial, business and governance systems, including operational approvals;
Qualifications, skills, and experience:
- A Doctoral degree in materials sciences or engineering, or related fields (Metallurgical / Mechanical / Industrial Engineering expertise with at least twelve years post PhD experience in RDI and/or Manufacturing. Eight years working experience in strategic leadership and/or business management at a senior level within the RDI sector;
- Experience and skills in RDI project leadership;
Solid track record of:
- Engagement with target sector on strategic level and understanding of industry competitiveness drivers (product and manufacturing);
- Broad understanding of relevant technologies and their potential impact on competitiveness;
- SET capability building track record (HCD, R&D rigour and R&D infrastructure);
Closing date: 21 July 2025
go to method of application »
About the Job:
- The CSIR has a vacancy for a Senior Manager: Contracting and Risk Management within the Advanced Production and Security Division.
- The Division comprises three clusters- Defence and Security, Mining and Manufacturing.
- The position reports to the Business Development and Commercialisation Executive of the Division and is based in Pretoria.
- The incumbent will be expected to spend significant time at the CSIR campus engaging with the different Divisional clusters.
- The incumbent will be responsible for leading and overseeing the strategic management of contracts and risks to support long-term business success, improving operational efficiency, ensuring that all contractual obligations are met in alignment with the organization's goals and governance requirements, and facilitate required stakeholder engagements both internally and externally to the organization. The role also involves integrating inputs from the business development and operational functions, optimizing project execution, and maintaining compliance with legal and regulatory standards.
Key Responsibilities:
- Lead contract negotiation strategies and the selection, drafting, and review of all BD&C-negotiated divisional contracts, ensuring alignment with business objectives and contributing to the organization's overall strategic goals. The contract magnitude would be from small to large contracts, e.g R2million to over a billion.
- Lead efforts in identifying potential future contracting risks and implement proactive risk mitigation strategies that align with CSIR’s overall strategy
- Identify and assess contract types to ensure appropriate application across different agreements providing strategic recommendations to ensure alignment with future business needs and evolving market conditions to mitigate potential challenges.
- Interface with respective internal and external stakeholders in order to ensure the contracts effectively align with CSIR’s strategic interests
- Develop and maintain contract risk dashboards for all divisional contracts, monitoring financial exposure, liabilities, penalties and operational risks.
- Ensure adherence to contract deliverables and project timelines, aligning contractual obligations with operational execution.
- Set clear, measurable objectives for contract execution and monitor these throughout the contract life cycle.
- Act as a critical Project/Programmes/Contracts interface between BD&C and the Clusters to ensure on time, on terms and on budget contract delivery
- Establish and lead BD management meetings for the Division, working closely with the Divisional Operational Manager to address BD-Operational challenges.
- Gather and analyze divisional data to compile BD&C monthly reports for divisional feedback and quarterly reports for EXCO feedback sessions.
- Ensure proper finalization of contracting documentation and maintain compliance with internal policies.
- Drive continuous improvement by analyzing contracting and business development performance metrices, identifying areas for optimization.
- Influence company-wide governance policies and ensure that all contracts align with the strategic compliance objectives, proactively identifying and managing potential compliance risks.
Qualifications, experience and skills:
- A Master’s Degree in Engineering or Science coupled with a certification in Project Management with at least fifteen years applicable experience in a research and development environment of which six years must be in contracts management and business development
- Developing strategies in an R&D environment
- In-depth knowledge and understanding of multi-disciplinary R&D programme development
- Stakeholder management which included international, private and public sector entities
- Formulation of relevant strategic relationship agreements. These include NDA’s; MOU’s; MOA’s; SLA’s etc.
- Understanding of integrated business development, system’s approach and technology development processes
- Packaging technology solutions from a suit of R&D capabilities at various technology maturity levels
- Knowledge of Systems Engineering
- Ability to work in conjunction with a diverse group of professionals to reach objectives
- Proficiency in data analysis using Excel, including pivot tables, formulas, and data visualisation tools.
- Knowledge of common frameworks or of end-to-end management of contracts, families (e.g., NEC3, NEC 4, etc.).
Closing date: 25 July 2025
go to method of application »
About the job:
- The CSIR has a vacancy for a Business Development Manager within the Business Development and Commercialisation (BD&C) office that supports the Advanced Production and Security Division.
- The incumbent will undertake local and international business development activities within designated areas for the respective market-facing sector clusters of Mining and Manufacturing. throughout the business development lifecycle (i.e. pre-leads to leads to prospects to secured sales) as per frameworks, guidelines and processes set out by the business development and commercialisation office.
- This will involve industry-specific market and sector analysis, identification of key and strategic clients, development of critical partnerships and the packaging and de-risking of business opportunities that are offered by the division.
- They will furthermore manage customer satisfaction and represent client interests in specific domains in project delivery.
- The position reports to the Business Development and Commercialisation Executive of the Division.
- The position is based in Pretoria and the incumbent will be expected to spend significant time at the CSIR campus engaging with the different clusters.
Work will entail exposure in the following areas:
- Robotics and additive manufacturing
- Smart/Learning Factories
- EVs and automotive industry development
- Medical devices
- Advanced materials, metals and metals processing
- Laser engineering
- Critical Minerals
- Mine Safety, Health and Sustainability for responsible mining
- Decarbonisation and Carbon optimisation
- Mining systems, remote operations and digital twins
Key responsibilities:
Business Development Leadership
Grow business in designated areas mentioned above through the business development lifecycle by performing, and not limited to, the following activities:
- Analysis and application of industry value chains, including product development value chains and respective applications of digital twinning solutions;
- Packaging of Technology Development and Commercialisation initiatives
- Market intelligence and analysis;
- Business case origination;
- Investment analysis;
- Requirements analysis;
- Classification of leads and prospects;
- Assessment and maturity auditing of Divisional capabilities applicable to requirements from leads and prospects in the designated areas;
- Assessment, gap analysis and technology evaluation of cluster technologies in line with market requirements;
- Identify clients and opportunities for the existing technology portfolio within designated areas;
- Business case evaluation for licensing of technologies;
- High-level packaging and de-risking of market opportunities;
- Development of principle agreements and incorporation and negotiation of the following terms and conditions:
- Liabilities, securities and insurance;
- Third party agreements;
- IP and exploitation;
- Governance and regulatory approvals;
- Breach and termination stipulations;
- Payment and delivery terms.
- Developing and costing of proposals in conjunction with the relevant CSIR Impact Area teams, external partners, and clients/funders;
- Internal and external stakeholder analysis (Defence and Security, Manufacturing, Mining);
- Securing contracts in the following domain initiative types:
- RD&I Partnerships
- Joint Development Partnerships
- External grants
- Innovation investments through a variety of innovation funders (Technology Innovation Agency, Industrial Development Council, Development Bank of SA, etc )
- Commercialisation investments with application in direct and indirect commercialisation opportunities
- Grow diversification income for the designated areas (private, public and international) through specific revenue streams (eg. contract R&D, royalty income);
- Pipeline development and management for the designated areas (leads to prospects to secured sales) with set targets;
- Promote use of optimum contract types for specific projects in the division
- Leading of technology transfer initiatives for the designated areas;
Application of system’s approach on converting requirements to solutions through:
- Research and requirement definitions;
- Solution definitions and conceptualisation;
- Solutions development;
- Test evaluations and qualifications; and
- Solution integration and acceptance.
- Internal and external stakeholder management.
Other activities within the BD&C office, which include:
- Monthly and quarterly reporting of all activities of the office within the designated areas.
- Updating the existing suite of BD&C processes, frameworks and guidelines and establishment of new process that may be required.
- Provision of reporting information at CSIR level.
- BD and C strategy and plans.
- Strategic research and development programs and related plans.
Qualifications, skills and experience:
- A Bachelor’s degree in engineering with at least 15 years’ experience and exposure in research and technology development applicable to the areas mentioned above will be beneficial.
- Masters’ degree in engineering domain will be an added advantage;
- Demonstrated success in business development
Evidence of solid domain expertise in:
- Business development lifecycle activities;
- System engineering and system integration;
- International contract negotiations, and
- Working interfaces of a research technology organisation.
- Evidence of high-level stakeholder management, and industry domain related networks.
Experience in the following areas:
- Contract management
- Commercialisation
- Systems engineering
- Project management
- Process management
- Capability development
- Marketing of capabilities
- Market analysis
- Experience in project development from conception to maturity
- Track record in the formulation and securing of contract R&D contracts.
Competence in:
- Business acumen
- Financial management
- Enterprise risk management
- Domain related technical knowledge and know-how
- Complexity management
- Strategy implementation
- Dealing with abstract concepts
Closing date: 24 July 2025
go to method of application »
About the job:
- The CSIR has a vacancy for a Research Group Leader: Advanced Casting Technologies in the Advanced Materials and Manufacturing impact area of the Manufacturing Cluster.
- The incumbent will be responsible for leading the CSIR's Advanced Casting Technologies Research Group which aims to drive technology development that support improved competitiveness of existing aluminium industry and implementation of national foundry technology network.
- The incumbent will be responsible for the provision of strategic and technical leadership of a research group (researchers and engineers with specialised expertise in their fields).
- This includes people management, financial sustainability, business development and operations management, in collaboration with the Impact Area Manager and Business Development Manager.
- This position is based in Pretoria.
Key responsibilities:
- Lead the implementation of the research group’s Research Development and Innovation (RDI) strategy to support the overall impact area’ RDI strategy, relating to the following, amongst others; relevant technology trends, impact, growth, investment, commercialisation, technology transfer, etc
- Lead the development of technologies and their packaging for potential clients.
- Conduct business development and/or networking activities to attract funding from existing and new sources, including building of sustainable relationships with clients, as well as the planning and costing thereof.
- Drive the research groups’ activities, involving aspects of investment, research & development projects, technology transfer, commercialisation, business development, human capital development and transformation.
- Manage strategic stakeholder relationship (local and international) for the research group to secure appropriate, integrated research and industry programmes.
- Leverage on up-to-date and relevant technology trends to derive impactful solutions-offering that promote industry growth.
- Lead a team of researchers and engineers to deliver internal investment and client projects on brief, on budget and on time.
- Promote a culture of Science, Engineering and Technology (SET) excellence (quality and delivery) and provide RDI leadership across multiple disciplines.
- Drive and support employee development through strategic Human Capital development initiatives and programmes to advance employees in their research careers, thereby ensuring alignment with the impact area strategy.
- Deliver on personal, research group and impact area KPIs, including profit and loss, quality, health safety & environment, employee development and transformation, as per agreed targets
- Collaborate through meaningful contribution to the overall management activities of the Advanced Material and Manufacturing impact area, including strategic investment goal setting and development of Research Development & Innovation (RDI) strategy.
Key qualifications, skills, and experience:
- A Doctoral degree in a Science or Engineering domain or equivalent.
- At least 8 years’ post PhD experience in manufacturing (preferably casting and metallurgy).
- Sound experience in managing a team of multi-disciplinary science/engineering professionals
- Proven track record in project management and research project leadership.
- Proven experience in business development of technical development projects.
- Solid product development experience.
A demonstrated and solid track record of/in the following:
- Working in the casting and foundries industry.
- Metal primary castings discipline including publications and technology outputs.
- Business development and commercialisation activities.
- Development of novel technologies & product solution concepts for diverse clients
- Sound financial acumen.
- Solid communication skills (oral, presentation, research and report writing).
- Sound problem solving
- Appropriate national and international RDI networks;
- An understanding of the research to market ‘innovation’ value chain.
Closing date: 22 July 2025
Gmail
Yahoomail