Call for Project Funding 2027
DSTI-NRF CIMERA is pleased to announce the opening of its 2027 Call for Project Funding, inviting academic researchers and collaborators to submit innovative project proposals that advance research in mineral and energy resources.
Issued earlier than in previous years, this call is designed to enable timely alignment with national scholarship processes and to support the early identification of high-quality postgraduate candidates.
About the Call
As a national Centre of Excellence, DSTI-NRF CIMERA plays a leading role in advancing high-quality, world-class research across the minerals and energy sectors. This call seeks to support projects that contribute to both scientific excellence and the development of future research talent.
Proposals are invited across the broad fields of:
- Economic geology
- Energy resources
- Geology for society
Projects that demonstrate strong collaboration particularly across universities, industry, and other stakeholders are highly encouraged.
Funding Opportunities
The 2027 call includes support for a range of project types, including:
- Postgraduate research projects (Honours, MSc, and PhD)
- Postdoctoral research fellowships
- Research projects requiring running costs only
- Outreach and impact-driven projects
Funding supports both research activities and the development of skilled human capital within the sector.
Driving Impact Through Research
DSTI-NRF CIMERA is committed to strengthening South Africa’s and Africa’s capacity in mineral and energy resource research. Through this call, the Centre continues to invest in:
- Advancing sustainable resource extraction and utilisation
- Supporting the next generation of geoscience professionals
- Enabling impactful, solution-driven research
- Strengthening collaboration across academia, industry, and government
Key Dates
- Call Opens: 16 March 2026
- Call Closes: 4 May 2026
- Outcome Feedback: June 2026
Be Part of the Future of Resource Innovation
This Call for Project Funding presents an opportunity to contribute to research that not only advances scientific knowledge but also supports economic development and sustainability across the continent.
DSTI-NRF CIMERA looks forward to receiving proposals that are collaborative, impactful, and aligned with its vision of driving excellence in mineral and energy research.
Submission and Enquiries
