The Tshwane University of Technology (TUT) has officially opened its 2026 Postdoctoral Research Fellowships Call, inviting suitably qualified candidates to apply for a Postdoctoral Research Fellow position in the Department of Electrical Engineering.
This opportunity is hosted under the SARChI Chair: Next-Generation Telemanipulation and Teleoperation Platforms for Multiple Sectors, based at the Pretoria Campus.
About the Postdoctoral Fellowship
The fellowship focuses on cutting-edge research that supports innovation across education, training, and production sectors. It is ideal for early-career researchers with strong interests in digital twins, mechatronics, mechanical systems, and advanced control systems.
Research Fields / Areas
Applicants should demonstrate interest and experience in one or more of the following areas:
- Digital Twins of mechanical or mechatronics systems, including component, system, and network-level modelling, analysis, and control
- Mechanical system design and simulation, with preference given to candidates with virtual reality (VR) development skills
- Application of the above areas in telemanipulation of remote industrial machinery
Minimum Requirements
To be eligible, applicants must:
- Hold a Doctoral degree (PhD) in:
- Mechanical Engineering
- Mechatronics Engineering
- Electrical Engineering (Electronics or Control Systems)
- Have obtained the doctoral degree within the last five (5) years
- Degrees awarded in 2023, 2024, or 2025 will receive preference
Value of the Fellowship
- R320,000 per annum (NRF-funded)
- R50,000 incentive bonus for fellows who exceed annual research output requirements
Required Application Documents
Interested candidates must submit the following documentation:
- Detailed CV including:
- List of research and creative outputs
- Examples of completed work in mechanical/mechatronics design, Digital Twins, VR design, or industrial control systems
- Certified copies of all relevant qualifications and certificates
- Certified copy of SAQA evaluation certificate (international PhD holders only)
- Certified copy of ID or passport
- One-page research proposal outlining the intended project and its alignment with the stated research fields
How to Apply
All application documents must be submitted via email:
Ensure that all documents are complete and clearly labelled before submission.
Enquiries
Prof S. Du
Tel: +27 12 382 5385
Important Dates
- Closing date for applications: 31 January 2026
Late or incomplete applications may not be considered.
Why Choose TUT for Postdoctoral Research?
- Strong focus on applied research and innovation
- Access to advanced engineering laboratories
- Participation in nationally funded SARChI research initiatives
- Supportive academic and research environment