Geoffrey Simate

Professor Geoffrey Simate is a Full Professor in the School of Chemical and Metallurgical Engineering at the University of the Witwatersrand, Johannesburg, South Africa. He also serves as Assistant Dean for Research and Innovation in the Faculty of Engineering and the Built Environment. With a PhD and MSc in Chemical Engineering from Wits and a BEng from the University of Birmingham, UK, he brings nearly 30 years of combined academic and industrial experience.

• PhD in Chemical Engineering, University of the Witwatersrand
• MSc (Eng) in Chemical Engineering, University of the Witwatersrand
• BEng (Hons) in Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham, UK
• Master of Management in Innovation Studies
• Postgraduate Diploma in Education

His research focuses on sustainable solutions in water treatment, carbon nanotechnology, (bio)hydrometallurgy, and asphalt characterization. He develops low-cost adsorbents from waste, produces carbon nanomaterials, recovers valuable metals from low-grade ores, and collaborates with Texas A&M University on asphalt testing. His work emphasizes waste valorization, circular economy, and green innovation.

The recent publications highlight a strong trend in environmental sustainability, particularly in acid mine drainage remediation, resource recovery from industrial and agricultural wastes, and nanomaterials for water treatment. There is a clear focus on circular economy principles, integrating statistical optimization (e.g., response surface methodology), and interdisciplinary collaboration across metallurgy, environmental engineering, and materials science.

Prof. Simate has received significant recognition, including:

• C2 rating from the National Research Foundation (NRF), South Africa (2021–present)
• Former C3 NRF rating (2015–2021)
• Editorial Board Member, Minerals (Mineral Processing and Metallurgy section)
• Editorial and Advisory Board Member, African Journal of Engineering and Environmental Research
• Guest Editor for a special issue in Minerals Journal

He has supervised 4 PhD and 16 Master’s students to completion, with several ongoing. He has also hosted postdoctoral fellows and supervised over 60 final-year undergraduate projects. His leadership as Assistant Dean since 2015 has enhanced research output in the Faculty. His collaborative work with institutions like Texas A&M University and his editorial roles reflect his active engagement in international research networks and academic service.