UNIVERSITY OF ZULULAND

 



POSTDOCTORAL RESEARCH FELLOWSHIPS 

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS 

Closing date: 30 June 2026 

 

The NRF/DSTI/UNIZULU SARChI Chair in Functional Materials for Green Energy at the University of Zululand is inviting applications for Postdoctoral Research Fellowships (2X) with an expected start July 1, 2026. The UNIZULU SARChI Chair is a well-established research group specializing in functional nanomaterials synthesis with emphasis on green energy applications. The group has a strong track record in preparing high quality metal chalcogenide, 2-D and various composite type materials using single molecule precursors. The successful candidate will contribute to cutting-edge research in green hydrogen production and energy storage, with emphasis on advanced materials synthesis and characterization and their investigation of HER, OER, ORR, or supercapacitance performance. 



 

 

Minimum requirements and key expectations 

·       A Ph.D in Chemistry, Physics or Materials Science completed within the last five years. 

·       Background in nanomaterial synthesis and characterization, electrocatalysis (notably HER, OER and ORR) 

·       Self-motivated, enthusiastic who can work collaboratively in a diverse group 

·       Good publication track record. 

·       Excellent written and verbal communication skills. 

 

Fellowship Details 

Stipend: R320 000 per annum 

Duration: Two years, renewable annually based on performance and funding availability. 

Exclusivity: The fellowship may not be held concurrently with any other government-funded fellowship (e.g., NRF) or full-time salaried employment. 

Additional benefits: Fellows will have access to conference travel support and professional development opportunities. 

 

Reporting: Submission of regular progress reports as required by institutional guidelines. 

 

Documentary requirements and submission process 

All applicants should submit their full application, with supporting documents to Mrs. T Mtetwa, email: MtetwaT@unizulu.ac.za. 

Documents should include: 

·       A completed application form, obtainable from the university website, as advertised under vacancies: https://www.unizulu.ac.za/vacancies/ 

·       Curriculum Vitae (updated and detailed), showing track record of publications and scholarly engagements 

·       Certified copies of your qualifications 

·       Certified copy of your ID or passport 

·       An outline research agenda, showcasing focus for the two years, and alignment with the university research niche areas 

·       Patents or other intellectual property owned or generated - registered or unregistered (if applicable) 

·       Testimonial letter from two referees 

 

Enquiries: Professor Neerish Revaprasadu (RevaprasaduN@unizulu.ac.za)

 

The deadline for application submission is 30 June 2026. The fellowship is tenable for a period of TWO years, starting 1 July 2026, or as soon as possible thereafter. 

 

South African scholars are encouraged to apply.