Vaal University of Technology
Name of focus area: Additive & Advanced Manufacturing
Strategic direction of focus area:
Additive Manufacturing focusing on Industry Applications such as Advanced Product and Tooling Design; Mechatronics / Robotics; CNC Machining; Material Science; Polymer Technology; Metallurgical and casting or Foundry knowledge; Innovation, Technology Development and Transfer, and Commercialisation.
Purpose of focus area:
Advanced Manufacturing’s scope at VUT is underpinned by Innovation, Engineering, Technology Development and Commercialisation. It aligns with SA’s National R&D Strategy (NRDS), emphasising the enhancement of innovation, primarily through technology.
Advanced & Additive Manufacturing as practised within the VUT, spans the complete value chain starting with market research, concept formulation, product development, design and optimisation, and ending with manufacturing, testing and commercialisation (and the relevant business aspects thereof). A key driver and unique approach is the high-level design input, followed by an accelerated product development approach, using Direct Digital Manufacturing methods, with unique product development technology platforms available – some developed by the VUT team.
As such, the position will also focus on research in technological innovation, demonstration of technology, incubation of new technology-based businesses, and enhancement of knowledge worker networks and organisations in specific focus areas. A key focus is the strengthening of Science, Engineering, Technology and Innovation (SETi) human resources through own research and supervision, and support of the VUT’s drive for increased research outputs. In line with the NRDS, it also aims to expand networks to optimize R&D, thus aiming to enhance quality of life and increase economic growth and competitiveness.
Key performance areas:
Contribution through own independent research: As part of the wider focus area, the candidate’s own focus is negotiable.
Co-creation of research outputs: Participation in joint research outputs.
Supervision and co-supervision: The candidate will be expected to supervise and co-supervise research students in the focus area.
Participation in the generation of research- and funding proposals: Participation in joint research outputs.
Contribution to research development, planning and administration: As above.
For full information please contact: Professor Deon de Beer
