Welcome to the premier research department in chemical engineering on the continent.

Research makes many things possible and the synergy of research, business and education energises Chemical Engineering at UCT.

Our research programme is focussed around four University-accredited research groupings: the Catalysis Institute, the Centre for Bioprocess Engineering Research, the Centre for Minerals Research and the Crystallisation and Precipitation Research Unit. We also have strong research interests in Hydrometallurgy, Energy and Industrial Systems Research Group and Process Modelling & Optimisation. Many of our researchers are additionally active in the Minerals to Metals (MtM) signature theme and Future Water interdisciplinary research initiative.

The Chemical Engineering Department also hosts the DSI Centre of Competence HySA/Catalysis and five DSI/NRF SARChI chairs (Minerals Beneficiation, Bioprocess Engineering, Nano-Materials, Catalysis and Reaction Engineering and Sustainable Catalysis), as well as the Anglo American Platinum Chair in Minerals Processing.

Department academics are in close contact with industry, undertaking challenging work at the forefront of their fields and students benefit from teachers whose knowledge base is rooted in real world applications. Work commissioned by leading chemical, bioprocess, petrochemical, mining and metallurgical companies gives depth and breadth to our postgraduate programme, prepares students for productive employment and supplies industry with well qualified employees who have expertise in areas of real need. Our national and international collaborations and partnerships enable us to learn from and contribute to the development of Chemical Engineering internationally, and to prepare our graduates to meet the challenges of globalisation.