Senior Research Fellow - Renewable Energy Systems

Placements24; Paarl; On-site; ZAR 1,200,000 - 1,800,000; Full time

Benefits offered by this job

Medical coverage

Retirement fund

Generous leave

Job summary

Placements24 is seeking a Senior Research Fellow in Paarl, Western Cape to advance renewable energy research. The role involves leading projects, modeling energy systems, and publishing results in top journals. A PhD with a strong publication record and post‑doc experience in renewable energy is required.

Leadership and collaboration skills are essential. The institution emphasizes sustainable energy solutions and offers a collaborative environment with opportunities for grant work and

Qualifications

• PhD in Electrical/Mechanical Engineering, Physics, or Energy Science.
• 5+ years post-doctoral experience in renewable energy technologies.
• Experience with MATLAB/Simulink, Python, or energy modeling software.
• Strong publication record in peer‑reviewed journals.
• Experience supervising research staff.
• Excellent analytical and communication skills.

Responsibilities

• Lead independent research projects on renewable energy systems.
• Develop computational models and simulations for solar PV, wind, and storage.
• Publish findings in high‑impact journals and present at conferences.
• Collaborate with academics, industry, and government partners.
• Mentor junior researchers and supervise students.

Skills

Analytical thinking

Communication skills

Independent work

Team collaboration

Education

PhD in Engineering/Physics/Energy Science

Tools

MATLAB/Simulink

Python

Job description

About the Role Our client, a leading research institution dedicated to sustainable energy solutions, is seeking a Senior Research Fellow to join their esteemed team in Paarl, Western Cape . This vital role will focus on advancing the understanding and implementation of cutting-edge renewable energy systems, including solar, wind, and energy storage technologies. You will lead independent research projects, publish findings in high-impact journals, and contribute to the development of innovative solutions for global energy challenges. The ideal candidate possesses a Ph.D. in a relevant engineering or physical science discipline, a strong publication record, and demonstrated expertise in the modeling, simulation, and analysis of renewable energy systems. This is an outstanding opportunity for a passionate researcher to contribute to a sustainable future within a world-class research environment. The institution provides excellent resources and fosters a collaborative atmosphere for impactful scientific discovery.

Key Responsibilities

• Conduct advanced research in the field of renewable energy systems, with a focus on integration, optimization, and grid stability.
• Develop and apply computational models and simulation tools to analyze the performance of solar PV, wind turbines, and energy storage devices.
• Lead research projects from conception through to dissemination, managing timelines and resources effectively.
• Analyze experimental and simulation data to identify trends, draw conclusions, and propose innovative solutions.
• Publish research findings in leading peer-reviewed journals and present work at international conferences.
• Collaborate with academic partners, industry stakeholders, and government agencies to advance renewable energy technologies.
• Supervise and mentor junior researchers, postdoctoral fellows, and students.
• Contribute to grant writing and secure external funding for research initiatives.
• Stay abreast of the latest technological advancements and policy developments in the renewable energy sector.
• Contribute to the strategic direction of the research group and institution in the area of sustainable energy.

Requirements

• Ph.D. in Electrical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, Physics, Energy Science, or a related field with a specialization in renewable energy systems.
• Minimum of 5 years of post-doctoral research experience focused on renewable energy technologies.
• Proven expertise in the modeling and simulation of energy systems (e.g., using MATLAB/Simulink, Python, or specialized energy modeling software).
• Strong understanding of power electronics, grid integration, energy storage technologies, and control systems.
• Demonstrated track record of high-quality publications in recognized scientific journals.
• Experience in managing research projects and supervising research staff.
• Excellent analytical, problem-solving, and critical thinking skills.
• Strong written and verbal communication skills, with the ability to present complex information clearly.
• Ability to work independently and collaboratively in a multidisciplinary research team.
• Experience with experimental validation of renewable energy systems is an advantage.

Benefits

Our client offers a competitive salary package, with an annual remuneration of approximately to ZAR, commensurate with qualifications and research experience, for this position in Paarl, Western Cape .

Benefits include comprehensive medical coverage, a generous retirement fund, and ample paid time off.