Presidential PhD Programme Opens Opportunities in Just Energy Transition Research
The DSTI-NRF Centre of Excellence for Integrated Mineral and Energy Resource Analysis (CIMERA) is inviting prospective doctoral candidates to express their interest in joining the Presidential PhD Programme (PPhDP) under the thematic hub focused on Just Energy Transition.
The programme aims to advance South Africa’s transition to a sustainable energy future through strategic research and development across battery and critical element value chains. Hosted through CIMERA’s SAJET-BaCE (South Africa Just Energy Transition Battery and Critical Elements) thematic hub, the initiative seeks to develop the next generation of researchers who will contribute to the country’s minerals, energy, and sustainability priorities.
Research opportunities are available across four key focus areas:
- Geological exploration and resource mapping
- Mineralogy, geochemistry and ore-forming systems
- Geometallurgy, beneficiation and sustainable processing
- Socio-economic, policy, value-chain and market pathways
The programme is open to South African citizens and permanent residents who are eligible to register for a PhD degree in 2027. Candidates should have achieved a minimum average of 65% in their previous degree and be interested in contributing to research that supports South Africa’s clean energy future.
Prospective applicants are encouraged to submit their expressions of interest before 9 October 2026. Further information is available through the Presidential PhD
Programme website and the CIMERA platform.
Programme website and the CIMERA platform.
