The Faculty of Engineering, through the Research Directorate of Mangosuthu University of Technology (MUT), invites applications for a Postdoctoral Research Fellowship 2024/2025 on:
“Investigation of liquid perfluorocarbons as solvents for flue gas cleaning”
Closing Date: 05 September 2025
Location: Mangosuthu University of Technology, Durban, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa
Fellowship Focus
South Africa continues to face an energy crisis marked by unreliable supply, aging infrastructure, and the need for cleaner and more efficient power generation. This project explores the use of liquid perfluorocarbons as solvents for flue gas cleaning, specifically within Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) technology.
The project aims to determine critical phase equilibrium data for perfluorocarbon-based systems and use process modelling to improve the design of gas absorption units. This research directly contributes to sustainable and environmentally responsible energy solutions.
Key Performance Areas
- Measure phase equilibrium and transport properties (VLE, solubility, viscosity, density, refractive index, etc.)
- Correlate measured data and obtain binary interaction parameters for process simulators
- Use Aspen Plus/HYSYS to design and evaluate absorption processes against conventional solvents
- Publish at least two manuscripts annually in DHET-accredited high-impact journals
- Draft project proposals and grant applications in chemical thermodynamics
- Initiate collaborations and joint research ventures
- Co-supervise postgraduate students
Minimum Requirements / Eligibility
- PhD in Chemical Engineering / Chemistry or relevant field (awarded within the last 5 years) specializing in chemical thermodynamics of solutions, phase equilibrium studies, measurements, and computational modelling
- South African citizens or permanent residents will be prioritized
- International fellows must hold a long-term Section 11(1)(b) Visitor’s Visa endorsed for academic activities with MUT
- Demonstrated track record of peer-reviewed publications
- Must not have held full-time permanent academic or professional employment
Recommendations
- Experience with thermodynamic modelling and process simulation tools (Aspen Plus/HYSYS, MATLAB, Python)
- Familiarity with gas absorption, solvent systems, refrigeration, or energy systems
Competencies
- Ability to conduct independent research
- Strong oral and written communication skills
- Supervision skills and ability to support postgraduate students
- Proven knowledge of academic publishing and journal targeting
Fellowship Value
- R300,000 per annum (tax-exempt)
- Awarded for 1 year, renewable for a further year (subject to performance and funding availability)
How to Apply
Applicants must email their applications to Ms. S.N. Masondo at: 📧 hr.engineering@mut.ac.za
Deadline: 05 September 2025
Required Documents:
- Motivation letter addressing eligibility and suitability
- Certified copy of ID (or passport for international candidates)
- Comprehensive CV (including publications, conference papers, scholarly outputs)
- Certified copy of doctoral degree certificate
- Names and contact details of three referees