PG studies starting either in 2nd semester 2025, or 1st Semester 2026 

The SMRI/DSTI/NRF SARChI Research Chair in Sugarcane Biorefining is looking for excellent prospective postgraduate students who are interested in conducting research in fields related to the Chairs focus area, starting in second semester of 2025 or first semester of 2026.

The SARChI Research Chair in Sugarcane Biorefining is conducting interdisciplinary research in support of the South African Sugar Value Chain Master Plan 2030. Our research covers aspects of biomass conversion to chemicals and materials, process optimisation, as well as supply chain, process and sustainability modelling.

Research bursaries are funded through the National Research Foundation (NRF), and applications are subject to the final approval of the NRF, as well as the availability of funds. Applicants must fulfil the NRF’s eligibility requirements which are:

Applicants must have received a pass mark of at least 65% and must be 30 years or younger for Master’s, or 32 or younger for PhD students. Only fulltime studies will be considered. Applicants should be preferably South African citizens or permanent residents.

For students who are RSA citizens or permanent residents, a Full Cost of Study bursary may be applicable if they achieved a mark of at least 75% in their previous degree, or if they can demonstrate financial neediness, or are living with disability. All other eligible students can only qualify for a Partial Cost of Study bursary. Bursary amounts are published from time to time on the NRF website, which should be consulted.

The University of KwaZulu-Natal offers fee remission for year 1, and for years 1-3 for Master’s and PhD students, respectively. Students must register at UKZN. The NQF level for the previous degree must be 8 or 9, for Master’s and PhD students, respectively.

Interested individuals are requested to submit their formal applications to Prof. Anne Stark via email (starka@ukzn.ac.za) with the subject line: PG-UKZN-Biorefining, on or before 10th of June 2025, 6:00 pm (for students intending to start in 2^nd semester 2025), or on or before 20^th of June 2025, 6:00 pm (for students intending to start in 1^st semester 2026). These applications should comprise of a letter of motivation, including a brief outline how the previous educational journey links to the research of this Chair. Potential research topics can be proposed. Additionally, a full CV, the full record of transcripts, a copy of ID/passport, and the contact details of three professionals that could provide a letter of recommendation must be submitted. In the case the applicant is applying for PhD, one of these should be the supervisor of the Master’s thesis. Students having obtained degrees in foreign institutions should provide proof of the NQF level of that degree, e.g. by providing SAQA evaluation documents.

Candidates are expected to possess excellent team working and communication skills, and the ability to work independently towards agreed timelines. Candidates with completed BSc/Honour’s or Master’s degree awaiting their graduation may apply for Master’s or PhD studies (please provide proof of completion of studies). Suitable candidates can expect an invitation for an interview (online or in person). Successful candidates are expected to reside in Durban during the course of their studies.