Postdoctoral Fellowship in Sustainable Electrochemistry for Biomass Valorisation

introduction

north-west university (potchefstroom campus) | faculty of engineering – centre of excellence in carbon-based | vacancy: postdoctoral fellowship in sustainable electrochemistry for biomass valorisation | employment type: fixed-term appointment

the centre of excellence in carbon-based fuels at the north-west university invites applications for a postdoctoral fellowship in sustainable electrochemistry. The research programme has a primary focus on the electrochemical upgrading of biomass-derived materials, including bio-oil and lignin, into value-added chemicals and fuels, while also encompassing related research in electrocatalysis, electrochemical conversion and electrochemical reactor development. Applications are invited from highly motivated researchers with a strong background in electrochemistry, chemical engineering, chemistry or a related discipline.

The successful candidate will join a multidisciplinary research group with access to multiple electrochemical reactor systems, comprehensive analytical facilities and established international collaborations. The fellowship provides an excellent opportunity to conduct high-impact research, publish in leading international journals, expand international research networks and develop an independent research profile.

research focus and responsibilities:

the successful candidate will conduct and lead experimental research in sustainable electrochemistry, with a primary focus on the electrochemical upgrading of biomass-derived materials, including bio-oil and lignin, into value-added chemicals and fuels. Depending on the candidate’s expertise and the evolving research programme, the candidate may also contribute to related electrochemical conversion, electrocatalysis and electrochemical reactor-development projects. Experimental studies will be complemented by transport modelling and computational fluid dynamics (cfd) to elucidate mass-transfer limitations, gas-bubble dynamics, local ph gradients, and their influence on reactor performance.

• a relevant phd degree in chemical engineering, chemistry, electrochemistry, materials science or a closely related discipline, obtained within five years before appointment as a postdoctoral fellow.
• demonstrated experimental research experience in electrochemistry, electrocatalysis, electrochemical engineering, electrochemical conversion or a closely related field.
• a good publication record in peer-reviewed international journals.
• strong experimental, analytical and scientific-writing skills.
• the ability to plan and conduct research independently, analyse and interpret experimental results, and prepare research outputs for publication.
• excellent communication skills and the ability to collaborate effectively within a multidisciplinary research environment.
• an interest in transport, multiphysics or computational fluid dynamics modelling of electrochemical systems would be advantageous.

should you have any enquiries, kindly direct them to:

dr. Saartjie gouws – saartjie.gouws.za

prof hein neomagus – hein.neomagus.za

closing date: 14 september 2026

commencement of duties: as soon as possible.