Mintek Postdoctoral Research Fellow

Mintek Pty Ltd.; Gauteng; On-site; ZAR 600,000 - 800,000; Full time

Job summary

Mintek, a leading company in metallurgical research, is seeking a Postdoctoral Research Fellow in their Pyrometallurgy Division. The successful candidate will engage in advanced research on computational multiphysics and pyrometallurgical processes, contributing to technology development and innovation in the field. Candidates should possess a PhD and exhibit strong experience in modelling techniques and relevant software.

Qualifications

• Strong understanding of computational multiphysics and pyrometallurgy.
• Experience with open source computational modelling tools.
• Proven research experience and publication record.

Responsibilities

• Perform tasks related to pyrometallurgy research and technology development.
• Conduct computational modelling involving fluid flow and heat transfer.
• Deliver high-impact research relevant to the field.

Skills

Computational multiphysics

Python

C

Pyrometallurgy fundamentals

SHEQ systems

Technology transfer

Education

PhD in Metallurgical, Chemical, Mechanical, or Process Engineering

Tools

OpenFOAM

PyroSim

FactSage

Fusion

FreeCAD

Job description

Job category : RandD, Science and Scientific Research

Location : Randburg

Contract : Fixed Term Contract

Remuneration : Negotiable

EE position : No

Introduction

Mintek has an exciting career opportunity for a POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOW within the Pyrometallurgy Division (PMD).

The candidate will perform tasks related to pyrometallurgy research and technology development, including computational multiphysics and reduced order modelling involving fluid flow, heat transfer, and chemical reactions.

Job Knowledge and Requirements

• Strong understanding of computational multiphysics and reduced order modelling in problems involving fluid flow, heat transfer, and chemical reactions.
• Proven experience with open source computational multiphysics modelling tools such as OpenFOAM.
• Proven experience with software development languages such as C and Python.
• Strong understanding of pyrometallurgy fundamentals.
• Ability to conceptualise and deliver high-impact research relevant to pyrometallurgy.
• Strong portfolio of publications in peer-reviewed journals is a plus.
• Knowledge of the South African and global metals, minerals, and energy industries.
• Experience with pyrometallurgical process software and design tools like PyroSim, FactSage, or similar.
• Experience with CAD tools such as Fusion or FreeCAD.
• Knowledge or experience with SHEQ systems.
• Knowledge of technology transfer, commercialisation, and product development is advantageous.
• Ability to attract R&D funding or investment is highly advantageous.

Minimum Requirements

• Strong understanding of computational multiphysics and reduced order modelling.
• Experience with open source tools like OpenFOAM.
• Proficiency in C and Python.
• Fundamentals of pyrometallurgy.
• Research experience in relevant fields.
• Publication record in peer-reviewed journals is a plus.
• Knowledge of the metals, minerals, and energy industries.
• Experience with relevant software and design tools.
• Knowledge of SHEQ systems.
• Understanding of technology transfer and product development.

Required Qualifications

• PhD in Metallurgical, Chemical, Mechanical, or Process Engineering or related field, emphasizing modelling skills relevant to pyrometallurgy.
• Ideally, 1 year postdoctoral research experience focusing on computational multiphysics and reduced order modelling.
• Familiarity with high-performance computing is desirable.
• Professional recognition and registration are advantages.
• Experience supervising postgraduate students is an advantage.

Behavioural Competencies

• Team player with a passion for pyrometallurgy research and technology transfer.
• Good interpersonal skills.
• Ability to work under stress and in demanding environments.
• Willingness to travel locally and internationally.
• Prepared to work shifts in hot, dusty environments.
• Ability to engage independently with industry leaders and international partners.